Property Management

The Art of the German Schmear

• by Dustin Busby
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This simple technique is an affordable and easy option for updating older homes. Most people tend to look at repairs as do-it-yourself projects, especially when DIY is the most cost-effective approach to achieving a certain look. Updating interiors and exteriors is a common strategy for ridding the dated look of an older home or for spicing up a newer home. One simple way to achieve this appeal is by using a technique called the German smear. A German smear is a cost-effective way to give a fresh look to dated, boring brick. Options and Advantages Unlike a paint surface, a German smear is maintenance free, but it is also permanent. German smear comes with options such as a light smear to a medium to heavy texture. There are color options as well. Most often, you see smears that have no color additive but use the standard buff and ivory buff colors to accent the additional trim, doors and shutter colors. This is the same for the interior smears to accent any interior paint scheme. Going with buff mortar is more in line with a beige look, whereas an ivory buff gives you a white appearance, one some would describe as a whitewash. To achieve a uniform look, it’s highly recommended that you prep and complete the process within the same day. If the project requires an additional day, it’s best to complete corner to corner instead of starting and stopping in the middle of a wall. That’s because weather plays a big role with the curing process. If you want a medium to heavy texture and then decide you would like to change to a light smear, then time is of the essence. Your timeframe is limited due to the curing process of the mortar. Remember, a German smear is permanent. So, start with a light coat (thin mixture), then possibly tighten the mixture (thick coat) to satisfy your taste. You may like some brick colors in your wall, but you really may not like the majority of them. The advantage is that you can have the brick you like smeared and wiped for a thinner appeal so the brick can come through. Applications for Foundations A German smear is also a great option for homes that have foundation issues. When foundations are repaired, usually the mortar and the brick are cracked. Some people simply paint over the damage, leaving the cracks visible even through the paint. Not all visible cracks in brick are immediate signs of structural or foundation issues; some can be caused by normal settlement. A common problem after foundation repairs are made is how to repair the cracks. No one really has the answer to repairing brick and mortar defects besides replacement or tuck pointing. A German smear would be an option because the smear would match the existing non-repaired areas. The areas where foundations typically fail are around a large body of water or if the home is built on a clay-based pad. A house with a repaired foundation doesn’t mean it’s in bad condition; it may even be better because it has gone the limit already and is more stable than before the issues were visible. There is really no life span for a German smear, but it can last for years. And, a German smear that has become darkened or discolored due to location and weather issues can always be fixed by adding a new thin coat to recreate that curb appeal you desire. How-To Tips Follow these simple tips to get started: Before starting the German smear process, wash the brick free of dirt and grime. It does not have to dry before you begin the application process. It is easier to work with a dampened brick than a totally dry brick. This will also help you achieve the desired look before the mortar has time to dry, which usually begins within 20-30 minutes. Begin with a ratio of 70% mortar to 30% water, and then proceed to the coverage you desire. The 70/30 ratio will give you a pancake batter texture. Use a sponge for interior small projects that require the lighter coat. Use a trowel for the heavy texture look. Use a car-wash-style brush with medium flexible bristles for the transparent look (haze). Use a wire brush to re-move any heavy buildup that is not desired.