Painting external brick? Good idea or not?

It is purely a matter of personal preference. I have seen good and I have seen bad. Are you familiar with Fixer Upper on HGTV? Here are some links to study up. This way you can make the best decision for your house and climate.

https://www.networx.com/article/the-pros-and-cons-of-painting-brick-surf

https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/paint-brick-house/

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/disadvantages-painting-brick-70616.html

You have to get

professionals painter that can spray on the paint on brick.

Well, yes and no. If you absolutely hate the brick on your home, then paint it. Keep in mind that it will not last and will need to be repeated, but a house with siding needs painting upkeep too. If you're doing it because you think it's "the thing to do", then no. Wait a couple of years and the trend will be to never paint brick. Trends tend to cycle in and out.

Ditto on Bijous.

It can be done but be sure to purchase a good quality paint which is just for this purpose.

If you don’t like the brick, definitely change it, but don’t use paint. Paint sits on the surface of the brick and will flake off eventually. We have both siding and brick. We stained our brick using solid masonry stain and painted the siding. Our brick has been stained for 10 years and still looks like new. We have temperatures ranging from over 100 degrees in the summer to freezing temperatures in the winter. Everyone thinks painting brick is the only option. Please trust me and use stain. It penetrates the brick and will not flake off.

Stain it!!!