German Smear Brick Artistry in Indiana

Timeless craftsmanship for the Midwest’s brick homes — precision-applied finishes built for Indiana’s four-season climate.

Call Now!

About Us

At German Smear Specialists, our work represents more than just surface transformation — it’s a commitment to craftsmanship and longevity. Each project is personally managed by the owner and applied by our in-house artisans, never subcontracted.

We specialize exclusively in German Smear, blending tradition and innovation to restore or modernize brick homes across Indiana. From historic Indianapolis properties to new construction in Carmel and Fort Wayne, we deliver finishes that preserve character while adding structural protection and beauty.

Your Vision.

Made Reality.

Why Indiana Homeowners Choose German Smear

Indiana’s climate brings humid summers, cold winters, and frequent freeze and thaw cycles — conditions that can deteriorate traditional coatings. Our German Smear process is engineered to thrive in these elements:

  • Breathable mortar finish that prevents trapped moisture and efflorescence.

  • Thermal flexibility for expansion and contraction without cracking or peeling.

  • UV-stable color tones that withstand sun exposure across open Midwestern landscapes.

  • Long-term value — a finish that endures 20 to 30 years or more with minimal care.

It’s more than protection. It’s preservation and artistry combined.

Our Process

Consultation & Guaranteed Quote
We assess your home’s structure, climate factors, and design goals, providing a guaranteed, locked-in quote before work begins.

Surface Preparation
All brick is cleaned, inspected, and prepared to ensure a flawless bond with the mortar finish.

Live Sample Creation
A test area is created on-site, allowing you to preview the tone, texture, and coverage before application begins.

German Smear Application
Each finish is hand-applied by our craftsmen using custom blends formulated for Indiana’s environment.

Final Detailing & Cleanup
The process concludes with thorough cleaning, detail work, and a final walkthrough with the homeowner to confirm satisfaction.

Our Signature Brick Finishes

Slurry Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Modern or renovated homes in areas like Carmel, Zionsville, and Westfield.

Heavy Textured Finish

What It Offers

Thickly troweled mortar for deep, sculpted texture and dimension.

Ideal For

Homeowners who want depth and visual character in their exterior.

Traditional Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Colonial and mid-century homes across Indianapolis and Fort Wayne.

Rustic Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Farmhouses and historic properties in Indiana’s countryside.

Mortar Wash Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Lakefront or suburban homes seeking soft contrast and sophistication.

Custom Options Featuring Stayntech™

  • Mortar color accents for enhanced tone control.

  • Stayntech™ brick staining, which modifies the brick’s base color prior to applying German Smear. We are certified to use this product

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

Areas We Serve

Central Indiana

Indianapolis

Carmel

Fishers

Zionsville

Central Indiana

Southern Indiana

Evansville

Bloomington

New Albany

Northern Indiana

Fort Wayne

South Bend

Elkhart

Call Now!
 

Indiana German Smear Project Showcase

Explore transformations from historic Indianapolis neighborhoods to rural estates, revealing the elegance and craftsmanship of every German Smear application.

Call Now!

FAQs

  • Our breathable mortar blend expands and contracts naturally with your brick, preventing cracking or separation that paint and limewash can suffer during Indiana winters.

  • Maintenance is minimal — typically just a gentle rinse or power wash every year or two. The finish maintains its tone and structure with virtually no upkeep required.

  • Each project is individually measured and reviewed. Although more expensive than traditional paint or limewash, German Smear provides far greater durability, beauty, and long-term value.

  • Each project is led by the owner, Thomas, who personally manages the work as the lead artisan. He is supported by a small crew trained directly under his guidance, ensuring consistent craftsmanship and no subcontractors.

  • All estimates are completed remotely using precision satellite measurement tools. Each quote is reviewed by our Chief Estimator, Hayden, and backed by our price-lock guarantee for full transparency and confidence.

  • Stayntech is a professional brick staining system that we are trained and certified to use. It enables permanent color enhancement of the brick prior to the German Smear application. It pairs beautifully with rustic and traditional finishes and includes a 15-year warranty from the manufacturer.

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

Enduring Brick Artistry for Indiana Homes

From Indianapolis to Evansville, we bring authentic, hand-applied finishes that elevate and protect brick architecture. With precision, passion, and proven techniques, every project reflects craftsmanship built to last generations.

Schedule Your Indiana Estimate Today

Call Now!