German schmear is a great way to give your exterior brick an aged, weathered look without taking up too much time or requiring too much effort. To do German schmear on exterior brick, you will need the following materials: a masonry brush, water, plaster, a rag, and a masonry trowel.
To begin, use your masonry brush to dampen the exterior brick. Make sure to thoroughly wet the entire surface of the brick. Then, use the trowel to apply the plaster on the dampened brick. Apply the plaster in a circular or half-moon shape and use the trowel to spread it out across the bricks.
As you work, be sure to work the edges of the bricks to create the perfect chipped, weathered look.
Once the plaster has been applied, take the rag and lightly press it along the entire surface of the brick. Be sure to press gently to avoid wiping away any of the plaster. As the rag slowly absorbs the water, the plaster should slowly chip off.
Once complete, allow the brick to dry and admire your masterpiece.
If you’re looking to add a unique and stylish look to your exterior brick, German schmear is an excellent option. With the right materials and a little bit of patience, you can transform your exterior brick from dull to majestic.
How much does it cost to do a German smear on brick?
The cost to do a German smear on brick will depend on several factors such as the size of the area to be brick-smoothed, the type of brick used, and the availability of qualified brick smearing professionals in your area.
On average, a German smear can range anywhere from $1.50-$2.50 per square foot, with a minimum price of roughly $150 plus materials. However, additional costs may come into play if there’s a lot of preparation or additional labor needed to complete the project.
For example, removing any existing paint or mortar and building a scaffolding may need to be factored into the cost. The average cost of the smearing materials themselves plus the cost of labor will typically be around $400 to $1000+.
In some instances, you may require a qualified brick specialist or a professional to complete the job, typically charging around $25-$50 per hour. Thus, the total cost for a German smear on brick typically ranges from $500-$3000+.
Can you German smear rough brick?
Yes, you can German smear rough brick. German Smearing (also known as “Slurry Smearing”) is a restoration technique that is used to give brick a vintage, shabby rustic look. When German smearing, a cement slurry is applied to the face of the brick then wiped away to mimic the look of aged and weathered brick.
This method works well on rough-textured brick due to the deep crevices that can hold the slurry, resulting in a nice aged look. When attempting to German smear rough brick, you may need to work in small sections at a time so the slurry does not have time to dry before you have removed the excess.
Additionally, you may need to adjust the slurry mixture to ensure it isn’t too thick or thin. It may be helpful to practice on a sample board or on a scrap piece before attempting the entire project.
With practice, German smearing rough brick can be an easy and cost effective way to quickly give your masonry a vintage look.
Does German schmear need to be sealed?
No, German schmear does not need to be sealed. This decorative technique creates a “limewashed” look by applying a thin layer of white cement- or polymer-based mortar glaze across the existing brick wall.
After the mortar has dried, you can paint the wall as desired without sealing the schmear. However, if you’re looking for a more durable finish, you may opt for a final clear sealant to protect the schmear from cracking, staining, and chipping.
A clear sealant won’t change the look of the schmear and is easy to apply with a brush or roller. Make sure to apply two coats for a longer-lasting finish.
What kind of mortar is used for German schmear?
German schmear is a stone finishing technique that typically involves applying a heavy coat of mortar onto brick or stone surfaces. The mortar used is typically a thin-set or masonry mortar, which is a mix of sand, cement, and water that bonds one surface to another.
It can also be used for creating a rustic texture on existing brick walls. When applying the mortar for German schmear, it should be applied evenly with a flexible trowel, working from the bottom of the brick or stone up in overlapping rows.
Once the mortar is applied, it should be wet with a spray bottle before it begins to dry. This will help the mortar settle into the spots between the stones and create a more rustic look. After the mortar has dried thoroughly, a small brush can be used to brush away any extra bits of mortar.
What’s the difference between whitewash and German smear?
Whitewash and German Smear (also called Schlicht or Schmear) are decorative and protective treatments applied to brick surfaces. Whitewash is a traditional technique that involves adding a coat of white paint to brick to protect it from the elements, as well as provide a clean and uniform appearance.
German Smear applies a layer of mortar to the brick, in a thicker, uneven fashion that is layered on with a trowel or brush. Unlike whitewash, German Smear is not painted, instead it’s applied in a more natural-looking, subtle style and may be left unpainted.
The main difference between the two is that whitewash is painted, whereas German Smear is heavily layered over the brick in a more textured and uneven manner. In addition, whitewash is much less durable and is known to crack over time, while German Smear is more permanent as it binds to the brick and protects against the elements.
The end product of German Smear also appears more refined and natural-looking than whitewash, which can often appear streaky and patchy.
How do you make a brick look weathered?
Weathered bricks have a unique charm, whether used in a wall, floor, or pathway. To give new bricks a weathered finish, use a combination of sandpaper, acid wash, and paint treatments that can make any brick look like a vintage one.
Start by cleaning the brick surface with a stiff brush and water to remove dirt and loose mortar. Once the surface is dry, lightly sand it to give it a rough texture. To add further weathering, lightly brush the surface with a mixture of dilute hydrochloric acid and water.
Be sure to take safety precautions while using the acid, wearing protective clothing and glasses to avoid skin and eye irritation.
Next, apply a coat of paint—tinted or plain—and a clear sealant so that the brick won’t absorb water and start deteriorating. If you want the brick to have an aged appearance, use paint that adds a chalky and rough texture.
Finally, add a few decorative touches to the brick for a more weathered look. You can hand-age the surface by using a special tool to scrape the paint in certain areas and highlight some of the natural ridges in the brick.
Adding grooves that run across the surface will also make the brick look older. Or, try crayon rubbing to create a layered effect and give the brick a weathered appearance.
Which is easier Limewash or German smear?
When it comes to comparing Limewash to German Smear, it all depends on the desired outcome and individual preference. While German Smear is a bit more complicated and labor intensive, results in a much more rough and textured finish, whereas Limewash is much easier and faster to apply, and results in a softer, slightly less textured finish.
Limewash is a much simpler process, and doesn’t require a as much specialized equipment or mechanical skill as German Smear. All you need is a bucket of Limewash and a wide brush. The Limewash is simply brushed onto the surface, with just one or two coats.
It is a very fast process compared to German Smear, which requires three steps to properly apply.
On the other hand, German Smear requires more time, tools, and skill. The process requires you to use a specialized trowel and manual pressure to smudge the wet mortar onto the wall’s surface. Three layers of wet mortar need to be applied and spread, so it can take longer.
German Smear also requires you to use a specialty mortar mix, which adds an extra cost when it comes to materials.
Overall, Limewash is much easier and faster to apply than German Smear, but the finish is slightly less textured. So which method you choose should depend on your personal preference for the finished look and how much time and materials you have to invest.
Is German Schmear timeless?
The popularity of German Schmear, also known as “hazelnut spread”, has experienced ups and downs over the years, making it difficult to definitively declare the spread as ‘timeless’. German Schmear first appeared in Germany in the 1700s and has remained popular in the country ever since.
In recent decades, its visibility expanded internationally, wide appearing on grocery shelves, as well as on the menus of restaurants. However, its popularity again appears to be waxing and waning, depending on location and cultural trends.
The main ingredients of German Schmear are sugar, vegetable oil and hazelnuts. Over the years, variations on the recipe have included additions such as cocoa, chocolate, or vanilla. The basic recipe, however, remains essentially the same and its core ingredients have remained constant, which is why some would argue it is a timeless tradition that transcends generations.
Ultimately, the answer to the question will depend on who is asked and where they are located. For example, in the countries of Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the spread still is a popular staple.
On the other hand, in other countries, it may not be as widely appreciated or popular, leading people to suggest that its ‘timelessness’ is, again, relative and context-dependent.
How expensive is German schmear?
The cost of German schmear can vary greatly depending on where you buy it from and the type of product you want. For example, a traditional German schmear (a mixture of buttercream and jam or preserves) can range from $3 to $8 per pound.
More complex schmears (such as those incorporating marzipan, nuts, and other ingredients) may cost up to $15 or more per pound. The price is also affected by the type of butter and jam, as higher-quality ingredients inevitably cost more.
Ultimately it can prove to be an affordable treat, as a single pound of schmear can make up to 24 pastries or serve as a topping on numerous desserts.
Can German smear be removed?
Yes, German smear can be removed. The type of removal technique necessary depends on what type of substrate the German smear was applied to. For brick, removing the smear usually involves using an acid-based cleaning agent specifically designed for mortar or masonry work or poultice—a paste made from a mineral-based powder and water.
Additionally, a wire brush or grinder may be used to further remove the stain. For stone or concrete, a different acid-based cleaner and a stiff brush may be necessary. For more delicate surfaces such as paint, a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush should be used and rinsed thoroughly with water afterwards.
Whichever cleaning technique is used, always remember to adequately protect the surrounding areas, wear appropriate safety attire and exercise extreme caution when handling hazardous cleaning chemicals.
Where did German Schmear originate?
German Schmear originated in Germany, specifically in the Bavarian Alps region. Schmear is a German word meaning “spread” or “smear” and refers to a popular technique used in the region to ‘spread’ mortar across walls or other surfaces in stone masonry.
Brick masons of the region would mix their mortar with pigment and then use a spatula-like tool to evenly spread the mixture across walls in decorative patterns. This process was called ‘schmearing’, which is where the mortar spread got its name.
Over time, the technique was adopted by other countries, particularly in Europe and North America, and adapted to craft more intricate designs and patterns. In the United States, German Schmear is commonly used as a decorative accent on interior brick walls, though it can also be used outdoors.
It’s also used to update bland wood paneling to create a more rustic, cottage-style appearance.
Can you use grout for German schmear?
Yes, you can use grout for German schmear. German schmear is a popular decorative technique which involves applying a thin layer of mortar over a brick surface in order to create a textured, aged look.
The mortar is usually a simple mixture of sand and cement and applied with a trowel. You can use grout for this instead of mortar, although it is not recommended since the grout will be more difficult to smooth out and can result in an uneven finish.
Grout is also more porous than mortar, which means it will be susceptible to staining and potential water damage. Therefore, if you are looking to achieve the German schmear look, we suggest using mortar over grout.
Is whitewash and German Schmear the same?
No, whitewash and German Schmear are not the same. Whitewash is lime and water mixed together to create a thick paint-like substance that is used to coat surfaces like walls and furniture, providing both aesthetic and protective benefits.
German Schmear, on the other hand, is a technique of applying a thin layer of mortar to a brick surface before it is painted, producing a rustic, textured look. The German Schmear technique is most commonly used to enhance the look of stone or brick, though it can be used on other surfaces like wood.
The result of the German Schmear technique is a surface that has a much more visually interesting, rough-looking finish compared to that of whitewashing, which tends to be more uniform in appearance.
Is whitewashing brick a good idea?
Whether or not whitewashing brick is a good idea depends on individual tastes and the specific context. At its most basic, whitewashing brick can soften the look of a wall or surface, giving it a washed, aged appearance.
It is also a relatively inexpensive way to enhance the appearance of a home or outdoor space. However, some people may find that the look of whitewashed brick takes away from the classical charm of red or other colored brick and could make a room look too washed out or one dimensional.
Additionally, the color only lasts until the first hard rain or when the wall is washed, meaning that it will require regular maintenance. Ultimately, deciding whether or not to whitewash brick is a personal decision based on one’s style preferences and the particular project.
Which is better white wash or lime wash?
The decision of whether to use white wash or lime wash is ultimately up to the preference of the user. White wash is a mixture of paint, water, and white pigment such as whitening powder or whitening clay.
This type of whitewash provides a uniform and solid color with a glossy finish that is highly durable and waterproof. The downside of white wash is that it will yellow and lose its durability over time.
Lime wash, however, is a type of whitewash made from quicklime and water. It produces a more natural, matte finish with a chalky texture, and it will not yellow over time like white wash will. In addition, lime wash is highly breathable and is often used in areas that have high humidity or are prone to mold growth, as the lime helps to absorb moisture.
On the other hand, because of its soft texture, lime wash is more susceptible to scratches and scuffing, and is not as durable as white wash. Therefore, if you are looking for a long-lasting finish that is highly durable, white wash is probably the better choice.
However, if you desire a more natural, matte finish with a chalky texture, then lime wash might be the better option.
Does limewash come off in rain?
Limewash is a porous material, so yes, it does come off in rain. This is because the rainwater will enter the porous material and gradually force it off the surface. Limewash is based on a traditional milky white lime material that was used as a protective coating for centuries.
It is applied by painting it on with a brush, and as it dries it creates an almost chalk-like finish.
However, unlike paint, limewash does not form a protective barrier on the substrate it is applied to – it only provides a thin wash that will gradually erode over time. This means it is not resistant to UV rays, frost, and water.
Rain can have a strong effect on limewash, especially if the surface is exposed to a lot of moisture, such as in areas with high rainfall. The water will penetrate the pores and eventually cause the limewash to peel away.
While this effect can be slow, it can be sped up if the limewash is not maintained and appropriately sealed. To protect the limewash and make it last longer, it should be sealed with a special lime coat or waterproofing agent.
What is a lime wash on brick?
A lime wash on brick is a decorative technique that consists of applying a thin lime-based paint solution to a brick surface. This whitewash-like technique is used to create a variety of looks, from a weathered, rustic style to a clean and polished finish.
The key elements of the lime wash process are the type of lime wash mix used, the amount of dilution, and the amount of time the wash is left on the brick. The lime wash solution contains a combination of hydrated lime, water, salt, and casein glue, giving it a natural ability to bind with the porous surface of brick.
When applied over several coats, it creates a contemporary, lightened look. Depending on how much the mix is diluted, it can create a subtle wash effect or a more vibrant hue if more pigment is added.
Depending on the desired effect, a lime wash can last for months or even years.
Is limewash better than paint?
Whether limewash or paint is better depends on a number of factors, such as what kind of surface you’re planning on coating and the desired aesthetic. Limewash can be a great choice for old masonry or stonework, as it penetrates the surface and works in with the material, creating a seamless and more natural-looking finish than paint does.
The process of applying limewash is easier than painting and requires less maintenance. Limewash is also eco-friendly and odorless, which can make it more appealing for homeowners. On the other hand, paint is more durable than limewash, so it can be a better choice for walls that receive much more wear and tear than a stone feature.
Paint is available in a vast range of colors and is quickly and easily applied with a brush or roller. It is often more affordable than limewash and offers more protection against the elements. Ultimately, the choice between limewash or paint is a matter of personal preference, and the specific requirements of the project.