German Smear Brick Transformations for Illinois Homes

Custom, hand-troweled finishes built to endure Midwest seasons and elevate every brick facade.

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Who We Are

At German Smear Specialists, we do not outsource craftsmanship — we perfect it. Every Illinois project is managed and completed by our in-house artisans under the direct supervision of the owner. We create finishes for all styles of Illinois homes, from Chicago’s classic brick bungalows to Naperville estates and Springfield restorations. Every surface is refined by hand for authentic beauty, durability, and longevity that paint and limewash cannot achieve.

Made Reality.

Your Vision.

Why Homeowners Across Illinois Trust German Smear

Illinois weather is unpredictable, bringing heavy snow, humidity, rain, and heat. These conditions test every exterior finish. Our mortar-based German Smear is engineered to protect brick through every season while maintaining timeless visual appeal.

Why It Works So Well:

  • Freeze and thaw flexibility – The mortar expands naturally through temperature changes, preventing cracks and separation.

  • True breathability – Moisture is never trapped beneath the surface, preserving the integrity of the brick.

  • Long-lasting color – UV-safe pigments retain tone and depth even under the strongest summer sun.

  • Architectural harmony – Protects and enhances the natural beauty of Illinois brick homes.

  • Minimal maintenance – The finish can last decades with only simple cleaning and care.

How We Work

The German Smear Process

  1. Consultation and Fixed Estimate – We inspect, measure, and provide a guaranteed project cost before work begins.

  1. Brick Preparation and Cleaning – Paint, coatings, and residue are fully removed to ensure strong adhesion.

  2. Live Sample Application – We apply a small test area on site to finalize the color tone and texture you prefer.

  3. Artisan Application – Our craftsmen hand apply each layer of mortar to achieve a finish that matches your home’s style.

  4. Detailing and Final Review – We clean the property, refine all details, and review the finished surface with you to ensure total satisfaction.

Our Signature Brick Finish Styles

Slurry Finish

What It Offers

Covers most of the brick face for a unified, clean look with gentle tonal variations.

Ideal For

Contemporary or newly renovated suburban homes across Illinois.

Heavy Textured Finish

What It Offers

Thickly troweled mortar for deep, sculpted texture and dimension.

Ideal For

Custom homes or homeowners seeking a bold and handcrafted surface.

Traditional Finish

What It Offers

Highlights the brick’s natural beauty while softening joints with lapping mortar trails.

Ideal For

Colonial and classic residential designs found throughout Illinois.

Rustic Finish

What It Offers

Uneven coverage for an authentic, weathered look reminiscent of European countryside masonry.

Ideal For

Farmhouse or historic properties that call for a weathered and authentic appearance.

Mortar Wash Finish

What It Offers

Thinly veils the brick for translucent hues and a weathered, coastal vibe.

Ideal For

Lakeside and suburban homes seeking a coastal or cottage style aesthetic.

Custom Options Featuring Stayntech™

  • Unique mortar pigment combinations for added tone and contrast.

  • Stayntech™ brick staining system allows base color adjustments before or during German Smear application.


  • (Stayntech™ includes a 15-year warranty and numerous color options to choose from.)

Communities and Regions We Provide Our Signature Finishes to in Illinois

Chicago and Northern Communities

Chicago

Naperville

Aurora

Evanston

Elgin

Southern and Western Illinois

Belleville

Carbondale

Champaign

Peoria

Bloomington

Springfield

Central Illinois

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See Our Artistry

Explore completed transformations across Illinois. From restored downtown brick townhomes to newly built suburban residences, our finishes bring out the true potential of every home.

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Faqs Section

  • Our proprietary mortar formula is made to withstand repeated freezing and thawing, preventing cracking and flaking over time.

  • Absolutely. German Smear is ideal for older or weathered brick, strengthening and refreshing the original material while maintaining its historic charm.

  • No. Our mineral pigments are completely UV stable and maintain consistent color through years of exposure.

  • Very little. A light rinse or mild pressure wash once every year or two keeps the surface clean and fresh.

  • No. Paint or sealants must be removed first to ensure proper bonding of the mortar to the brick.

  • When applied correctly, the finish lasts between 20 and 30 years or longer with minimal maintenance.

  • Pricing depends on surface condition, size, and finish style. While the initial investment is higher than paint, the long lifespan and nearly zero upkeep make it a superior long-term value.

Testimonials

  • We did our home in traditional lime mortar smear. There was nobody in our area that had the ability to do this. I knew the dangers of painted brick and the benefits of lime mortar, so I asked Thomas to come to KY to do our home. Considering the travel, the time and expertise this took, I could not be happier. The people were knowledgeable, professional and great conversation. My only regret is that I was not able to spend more time watching the process myself. It completely transformed our home and the wife is ecstatic! I could not recommend them more. They cleaned up the area as they went and went above and beyond with repairing a cracked chimney cap they found along the way without extra charge. I truly could not be happier. If you read this Thomas, thank you for being you.

    Chris M

  • Thomas was great! Very professional and kind. He walked us through the process and expectations and was a great communicator. We loved our home and thought he left the place clean and tidy. Lovely working with him!

    Alyn B

  • This is one wonderful craftsman and company. I received an estimate within 24 hours and signed on. Thomas showed up when promised and finished the job a few days early. He was respectful of my schedule and preferences. The house is completely transformed and is beautiful! A winner!

    Julie L

  • Thomas’s work is 1st class. Truly is a master in his field and I am so grateful to have met him. When you want workmanship of the highest quality, he really is the one at the top. Transforming nice houses to magazine-worthy dream homes.

    Keith F

  • I don't know how to put into words what Thomas and Jerry did for me and my house! It's better than any Pinterest idea I had, any thought I dreamed up or any search I did online! Not only did they make what I was dreaming of come to life, but they listened to me. Really listened to me! I have had other contractors in the past try and talk me out of what I was envisioning and try and change my vision. Thomas listened to me and asked me questions that dug into what it was that I was thinking. He gave me options, let me see test patches, offered his advice with grace and then got to work! Not only were they more than professional, they were so kind to my kids and my dog!! I had no worries about them working in and around my home but in addition, I needed to leave for a bit and felt safe enough to leave them in my home to work on my fireplace while I wasn't there. They were clean and picked up everything like they were never even there! I can't thank them enough for everything they did and for the friendship that was created! I recommend them with the upmost confidence that you will love them and their work as much as my family has!

    Jenny M

  • work is impeccable. We have a 3000 sq ft, two story home, and he took a vision of smear work on a fireplace I found…and brought it to life! You won’t be disappointed with the work Thomas does, and we can’t be more happy with the work he did. I would highly recommend him!

    Brady E

  • I’m an interior designer and found German Smear Specialists when my homeowners asked me to change their fireplace but I couldn’t tile, paint or drywall over the brick. I was so happy to find Thomas. He is professional, timely and very talented. He worked closely with the homeowners to find the exact right amount of smear to make them happy. The fireplace looks fantastic and the homeowners couldn’t be happier! Highly recommend German Smear Specialists.

    Jessica S

  • My initial research into german smear proved it to be a highly skilled technique, particularly for large exterior projects. I feel very fortunate to have found the German Smear Specials! From the start of contact to finish of the job everything was on point. Passionate about what they do. Experts of the technique. Conscientious. GSS started with offering samples that would fit my vision and during the entire project made sure I was happy with the ongoing work. The work itself is high quality. Every step in the process was completed with a note to details (even cleanup). The result speaks for itself. Thank you!

    Brittany K

  • We did a lot of research to find someone to German Schmear the brick on our house, and when we met with Thomas, it was a no-brainer. He clearly knew what he was talking about and gave us the confidence that he was the right person for our job. He did an outstanding job on the German Schmear, and he brought creativity that added elements to really make our house unique and stand out. He's an artist and uses an artist's approach to German Schmear.

    Brian G

From Chicago to Springfield, German Smear Specialists combine artistry with performance to create brick finishes that last for generations. Every project is handcrafted, owner-led, and tailored to the unique architecture of your home.

Illinois Brick Restored for Strength and Style

Schedule your Illinois consultation today.

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