Rough Finishing Techniques for Brick Masonry

Scratch Surface

• A scratch surface allows you to create a rough finish with a thin layer of wet cement applied to the surface of the brick. A scratch coating uses a mixture of 1 part dry Portland cement and 2 1/2 parts masonry sand. Mix the dry ingredients with water until it reaches a paste consistency. Spread the cement over the brick surface in a thin layer of about 1/8 inch and scratch it with a bristle brush or sticks to create the rough finish. Let the finish dry completely for about 24 hours, before painting the rough finish in a desired color with exterior paint.

Nogging

• Traditional brick nogging is a 19th-century construction technique where the masonry construction is roughly put together as a filler inside the building walls. The finished brickwork during this construction was not intended to be visual, so the appearance of the mortar between the brick was sloppy and rough. Nogging in the current era is a technique used to create a rustic or antique appearance, but not necessarily desired for buildings. The process involves not smoothing the mortar between each brick during the laying process. Consider the rough nogging technique when laying or installing a brick wall as a barrier or fenced area.

Painting

• Create a rough texture finish on brick masonry by painting the surface with a sand texture. Start with an acrylic paint as the primer and apply a sand texture paint over top to complete the rough appearance. Pressure-wash the surface of the brick and mortar to remove any residue before applying paint for texture. You will need to abrade the surface of glazed brick with a sander so the primer absorbs properly. This technique works best on brick that has weathered for at least one year. Paint both the mortar and brick surface for a complete look. The painting technique and etching cleaner works well on most weathered brick surfaces, including the front of a home or brick barrier.

Rendering

• Cement rendering on a brick surface is the process of applying a thin coating made from a mixture of cement, masonry sand and lime plaster. This rough finishing technique improves the exterior of old masonry surfaces and provides a sealer to improve weather resistance. Rendering is a process that requires a new application of the cement mixture every two to four years, depending on how well it holds up to harsh weather elements. The rough finish is often painted in a desired color for the geographical location.