German Smear is a masonry technique that has gained significant popularity for enhancing the appearance of brick homes. This distinctive finish offers a unique way to transform brickwork, providing an aged and textured look that can revitalize a property’s exterior or interior. It presents an alternative to traditional painting, allowing homeowners to achieve a different aesthetic for their brick surfaces.
What is German Smear
German Smear, also known as German Schmear or mortar wash, is a masonry finishing technique that applies a thin layer of mortar over a brick surface. It creates a distressed, aged, and rustic appearance, reminiscent of old European cottages. This is achieved by partially exposing the underlying brick, allowing its natural color and texture to show through. The term “schmear” is German for “to spread,” reflecting the application process.
Unlike whitewash or limewash, which use diluted paint or lime solutions, German Smear utilizes a cement-based mortar, often a mixture of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. This material difference contributes to its distinct texture and durability. The technique allows for customization, as the amount of mortar applied and removed dictates the degree of brick exposure and the overall distressed effect. This results in an uneven, textured finish that softens traditional brickwork, providing a unique character adaptable to various architectural styles.
How to Apply German Smear
Applying German Smear involves specific materials and a detailed process to achieve the desired aesthetic. Materials typically include white cement-based mortar, water, and sometimes lime or sand, depending on the desired consistency and finish.
Tools commonly used include:
Five-gallon buckets for mixing.
A drill with a mixing bit.
Large sponges.
Spatulas or trowels.
A wire brush for distressing.
The application process begins with thorough surface preparation, cleaning the brick to remove dirt, dust, and mildew for proper mortar adhesion. After cleaning, the brick surface should be dampened to extend the mortar’s drying time and allow for more working time. Mortar is then mixed to a consistency resembling thick batter or peanut butter, often around a 70% mortar to 30% water ratio, adjustable for thicker or thinner applications.
The mortar is applied in sections using a trowel, sponge, or grout bag, often starting with the grout lines. While the mortar is still wet but beginning to stiffen, portions are wiped or scraped off using a wet sponge, trowel, or wire brush to expose the brick underneath. This “smearing” and removal technique creates the characteristic distressed, irregular finish of German Smear, allowing for artistic control over the final look. Due to its labor-intensive nature and the permanence of the finish, some homeowners opt to hire a professional, although it can be a DIY project for those with patience and practice.
Advantages of German Smear
German Smear offers several advantages for homeowners looking to update their brick exteriors. Its aesthetic appeal transforms the look of brick into a warm, inviting, and rustic appearance. This technique can give an outdated brick facade a fresh, aged character, often associated with a farmhouse or old-world European charm. Partially covering the brick allows some of the original color and texture to remain visible, creating a unique, textured character that differs from a solid paint job.
Beyond aesthetics, German Smear provides practical benefits, including durability and longevity. The mortar-based application bonds with the underlying brick, creating a finish resistant to peeling, fading, or flaking, unlike some paint applications. This durability means it can withstand various weather conditions, acting as a protective layer against moisture and minimizing damage from freeze-thaw cycles. It can also cover minor imperfections, such as chipped or cracked brick, without completely obscuring the brickwork’s natural texture. Furthermore, German Smear can enhance a home’s curb appeal and potentially increase its market value, especially where rustic or vintage architectural styles are in demand.
Important Considerations Before Application
Before deciding on German Smear, homeowners should consider several factors, primarily its permanence. Once applied and dried, German Smear is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to remove without damaging the underlying brick. This makes it a long-term commitment, so it is important to be certain about the desired aesthetic. It is not recommended for previously painted or sealed brick surfaces, as the mortar may not adhere properly, requiring paint removal beforehand.
Maintenance for German Smear is relatively low compared to other brick treatments. It does not require frequent touch-ups, as it resists fading and peeling. Regular cleaning with a garden hose every 6-12 months is usually sufficient to keep exterior brick looking fresh; harsh power washing should be avoided to prevent erosion of the mortar.
Compatibility with different brick types is also a factor; German Smear works best on raw, unpainted, and porous bricks, like clay, which absorb the mortar well. Climate can also influence the application and longevity, with the mortar layer strengthening the home and preventing moisture buildup, especially in dry climates. It is always advisable to test the German Smear mixture on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the desired look and adhesion before applying to the entire surface.