Bricks are long-lasting but not impervious to dirt, dust, and stains. So, you must clean them. Interior and exterior bricks must be maintained in the same way, but they cannot be washed in the same way (using a power washer inside your home is not recommended). Pressure washing bricks on the outside wall is important to keep them clean. In this article, we’ll explore how to clean interior and exterior bricks.
How to clean interior bricks?
While older houses frequently have brick fireplaces or brick accents around a mantel, contemporary residences frequently use brick veneer. One will eventually need to clean the brick, regardless of where or how it was incorporated into your interior design. Thankfully, cleaning interior brick is far simpler than cleaning exterior brick; all one needs are a few common home items and the straightforward, step-by-step cleaning instructions below
You will require the following items
- A tarp (waterproof canvas) or old newspapers
- Goggles and gloves
- A brush attachment for a vacuum cleaner
- A water-filled spray bottle
- Boric acid, dish soap, and salt
- Use a bristle brush rather than a wire brush.
- A fresh rag
Take the following steps
- To begin, remove all ornamental items from the surface. Tarp or newspaper on all flooring or furnishings near the brick wall. This prevents the cleaning liquid from splashing and destroying them.
- Dislodge loose debris from the brick surface using the vacuum cleaner and brush attachment. Repeat as necessary until the surface is clean.
- Keep in mind that you should not use the cleaning solution on dried brick. The dry brick will quickly absorb the solvent, resulting in a faded appearance or greenish and white discolouration marks. Instead, use the spray bottle to wet the wall until it is completely saturated.
- To clean the surface, use dish soap and salt or boric acid. When performing this step, wear gloves. Both procedures may be utilised, depending on how heavily stained the surface is.
Source: Pinterest (The Home Depot)
How to clean exterior brick?
Since exterior bricks are more vulnerable to the environment, they may necessitate more frequent upkeep. They can also survive more aggressive cleaning methods.
You will require the following items:
- A tarp (waterproof canvas) or old newspapers
- Goggles and gloves
- A brush attachment for a Hoover cleaner
- A spray nozzle for a garden hose
- A brush with bristles
Steps to be followed
- Choose an overcast day to avoid the cleaning chemicals drying up too soon and leaving residual streaks on the walls.
- Cover nearby metal, wood, and glass surfaces with old newspapers and a tarp to protect them from being sprayed and destroyed by the cleaning solvents. Include plants and lighting fixtures as well.
- To remove loose particles from the surface, use the vacuum and brush attachment. Spray the surface liberally with water using the garden hose.
Prepare exterior for pressure washing
If you have a pressure washer, it can be a useful tool for cleaning outside brick; however, not all bricks are the same or were built at the same time. Stronger bricks can be pressure washed, but if your brick is over 80 years old, consult a professional first.
- Before pressure washing, inspect the brick for cracks, as these might allow water into the interior of the bricks, causing harm later.
- Tarp any windows or non-brick areas (including electrical places and plants) to keep them safe. If you’re going to cover something with electricity, be sure the cover is waterproof.
- Spray the brick with the pressure washer on the lowest setting to remove any filth.
- If the lower settings aren’t removing the filth, gradually raise the water pressure.
Source: Pinterest (repressingthecrazy.com)
Add detergent and pressure wash
Allow the detergent to soak for a few minutes to loosen surface debris and stains. After the detergent has finished its work, rinse it thoroughly:
- To clean the brickwork, use a surface-cleaner attachment or a low-pressure nozzle.
- Work your way down from the top.
- Spray in sweeping horizontal strokes of around 3 or 4 feet.
- For the appropriate nozzle distance from the cleaning surface, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
After cleaning the brick, rinse away the detergent residue. To thoroughly clean neighbouring surfaces, use a garden hose. The driveway, walkway, patio, and soil are all included.
Spot treat stains, mildew and moss
Allow your exterior brick to dry after cleaning it. Allow at least a day for it to dry completely. Then, spot-treat any remaining stains. This includes persistent mildew, algae, rust, and brickwork bloom.
Use bleach on exterior brick stains
- In a large bucket, combine a tablespoon of bleach and three litres of warm water. Choose a 3-by-3-foot portion of the surface and apply the solution to it with a sponge.
- Scrub the area firmly with the bristle brush, and if the surface begins to dry, apply more solution. Finally, hose down the area to remove the solution.
- Mould, mildew, and moss will be removed, as will the stains they create on brick walls and pavers. Always wear gloves and safety equipment.
FAQs
What’s the best method to clean old, weathered bricks?
Gently scrub with a mixture of water and dish soap.
What’s the safest way to clean bricks near plants?
Use a mild soapy solution and rinse well to prevent harm to plants.
How can one prevent mould growth on bricks?
Keep the area well-ventilated and ensure proper drainage.
What’s the best way to remove moss from bricks?
Scrub with a mixture of water and white vinegar.
How to clean efflorescence from bricks?
Use a mixture of water and muriatic acid, following safety precautions.
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