German smear on brick is a popular architectural finish that gives masonry a distinctive, aged look.
According to Alonzo Perez of Garland, Texas-based Alexander and Xavier Masonry, "German smear is a masonry technique that involves applying a thin coat of mortar onto the surface of brick or stone and then smearing it off, leaving behind a textured and whitewashed appearance." This technique creates a unique blend of exposed brick and smeared mortar, resulting in a rustic and weathered effect.
Understanding the German Smear Technique
The German smear technique, also known as Schmear, is essentially a controlled process of applying and removing mortar. It's not simply painting over the brick.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Application: A layer of wet mortar (often a lime wash or diluted mortar mix) is applied directly onto the brick or stone surface.
- Smearing: Before the mortar fully dries, it is partially wiped or smeared off. This step is crucial as it determines how much of the brick remains visible and the texture left behind. Tools like sponges, rags, or trowels can be used to achieve different effects.
- Result: The outcome is a surface where some bricks are mostly covered by a thin, textured layer of mortar, while others show more of their original color and texture peeking through. This creates a beautiful, distressed, and often whitewashed or antique appearance.
Key Characteristics
German smear is known for several distinct characteristics:
- Textured Finish: Unlike paint, the mortar adds a tactile texture to the brick surface.
- Varied Coverage: The application is intentionally uneven, leaving some areas heavily covered and others barely touched.
- Whitewashed/Aged Look: The mortar typically lightens the color of the brick, giving it an aged, vintage, or whitewashed effect.
- Durability: As it uses mortar, it is a relatively durable finish compared to simple paint.
Appearance Variations
The exact look of German smear can vary significantly depending on:
- The type and color of the original brick.
- The color and consistency of the mortar mix used.
- How much mortar is applied and smeared off.
- The technique and tools used for smearing.
This variability allows for a customized look, from a heavy, almost fully covered appearance to a lighter touch that reveals more of the underlying brick.
