German Smear Brick Finishes Crafted for Pennsylvania Homes

Timeless, hand-applied German Smear finishes built for the Mid-Atlantic climate and architectural tradition.

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Our Story and Commitment to Quality

At German Smear Specialists, craftsmanship is our foundation. Since 2019, we’ve focused exclusively on perfecting German Smear and mortar-based finishes for brick homes. Every Pennsylvania project is performed by our in-house crew, never subcontractors, ensuring consistent results and artisan detail.

From historic brownstones in Philadelphia to colonial homes in Lancaster and farmhouses across central Pennsylvania, we approach each property with precision, respect for the material, and an unwavering focus on durability.

Made Reality.

Your Vision.

Why Homeowners Across Pennsylvania Choose Us

Pennsylvania’s weather demands a finish that can handle moisture, snow, and heat shifts without peeling or cracking. Unlike paint or limewash, German Smear forms a breathable mineral bond that lets brick expand and contract naturally.

Key Advantages:

  • Durable against freeze and thaw – Mortar compounds are formulated for Pennsylvania’s fluctuating temperatures.

  • Moisture permeable – Allows water vapor to escape, preventing trapped moisture and efflorescence.

  • Custom color options – Mortar pigments are blended to match historic tones or modern styles.

  • Long-term investment – German Smear endures decades with minimal maintenance while preserving curb appeal.

Our Application Method

Each project follows a proven process developed through hundreds of successful transformations:

  1. Consultation and On-Site Evaluation – We assess brick type, condition, and architectural details before quoting.

  2. Surface Preparation and Cleaning – Paint, sealers, and residues are removed for proper adhesion.

  3. Custom Sample Creation – We build a small test area on-site so you can preview color and texture under natural light.

  4. Artisan Mortar Application – Every inch is hand-applied for even tone, controlled coverage, and timeless texture.

  5. Detailing, Cleanup, and Final Review – We complete each project with careful detailing and a homeowner walkthrough for full satisfaction.

Distinctive Finish Styles

Slurry Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Urban properties or renovated homes throughout Pennsylvania’s cities and suburbs.

Heavy Textured Finish

What It Offers

Thickly troweled mortar for deep, sculpted texture and dimension.

Ideal For

Custom or luxury homes that demand striking architectural detail.

Traditional Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Colonial or early American-style homes across Pennsylvania.

Rustic Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Farmhouses, cottages, and heritage brick homes.

Mortar Wash Finish

What It Offers

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

Ideal For

Homes seeking a subtle transformation or a coastal-inspired tone.

Custom Options Featuring Stayntech™

  • Personalized mortar color blending for contrast or harmony.

  • Stayntech™ brick staining to shift base color before our German Smear application.


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

Where We Work in Virginia

Southeastern Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

Lancaster

Reading

West Chester

Western Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh

Cranberry Township

Erie

Central Pennsylvania

Harrisburg

York

State College

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Brick Transformations Across Pennsylvania

Explore projects showing the difference a true artisan finish can make. From modernized townhouses to restored heritage estates, our finishes stand up beautifully to Pennsylvania’s climate.

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Faqs Section

  • Yes. Our breathable mortar composition allows moisture to escape naturally, preventing cracking and spalling during freeze-thaw cycles.

  • German Smear is a mineral-based finish that becomes part of the brick surface. It will not peel, chip, or wash off over time, unlike paints or lime-based coatings.

  • Absolutely. We custom blend mortar pigments to complement or contrast your current brick for a tailored result.

  • With correct preparation and application, German Smear lasts 20 to 30 years or more, maintaining strength and color depth through all four seasons.

  • Very little. Occasional rinsing or a soft power wash is all that’s required to remove buildup.

  • Pricing depends on square footage, condition, and chosen finish style. Though it costs more than paint, the longevity and near-zero maintenance make it an exceptional long-term investment for Pennsylvania homes.

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

Pennsylvania Brick Homes, Reinvented with True Artist Craftsmanship

German Smear Specialists deliver timeless, durable finishes for homes throughout Pennsylvania. Whether preserving historic detail or updating your exterior, our in-house artisans ensure every surface tells a story of quality and care.

Schedule your Pennsylvania consultation today.

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