How to Clean Brick Mortar

Cleaning brick mortar is a final step in the construction of a brick veneered project. Not only must new brick mortar be cleaned, but old brick that has become weathered must be renewed as well. There are a few simple steps that, if you complete, will reward you with a beautiful brick facade. Cleaning brick mortar can be done in as little as two hours, depending on the size of the project.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cleaning chemicals
• Pressure washer
• 5 gallon bucket
• Acid brush and handle
• Wire brush
• Garden hose

1. Determine the desired approach to cleaning brick mortar. There are several ways to clean brick mortar, so it is necessary to display each method and describe the process in using that method. Powdered washing detergent is one mixture that can be used safely as a chemical cleaner of brick mortar. Next, while remaining within the chemical approach, brick cleaners that are designed to clean brick mortar are more common and have a mixture of acid and other detergents that will do a good job as well. Using a pressure washer is often an approach that will yield clean brick mortar without the use of any chemicals. Finally, as a last resort, muriatic acid can be used but with great caution. Whatever method you choose, always be safe while working with the application.

2. Mix washing powders and water together to get a mild detergent that will clean most brick mortar needs. Using a 5 gallon bucket, mix 1 scoop of washing powders with about 3/4 of a 5 gallon bucket of water. Using the acid brush and handle, soak the brick mortar with the detergent mixture and scrub vigorously. While the detergent is allowed to sit for 20 minutes, scrub any stubborn areas with a wire brush, wash the area once more with the acid brush, and spray off with a garden hose.

3. Mix brick cleaner and water together for a stronger application of mortar cleaner. Brick cleaners, such as sure clean, are often designed to specifically clean brick and mortar. They are a little more caustic, however, depending on the severity of the dirty mortar, it can provide a more pleasing finish. Brick cleaner comes in 1 gallon jugs, or, for larger jobs, 5 gallon jugs. Follow the same procedure as in the washing powder mixture, however, only allow no more than 15 minutes for setting.

4. Clean the brick mortar using a pressure washer. Many pressure washer come in spray strengths of 1500, 2000, 2500, psi. The spray tips are inserted into the end of a wand and are color coded. The red tip should never be used to clean brick mortar, it will rip the mortar from its joints. Instead, use the whit or yellow tips. They will clean effectively and safely. You may rent a pressure washer from your local tool rental store. The store clerk will also instruct you on the use of a pressure washer.

5. Clean the brick mortar with muriatic acid. Muriatic acid should only be used as a last resort when the brick mortar is stubborn. Muriatic acid will remove almost anything, including the brick and mortar. Never leave the acid mixture on the surface longer than 5 minutes. Fill a 5 gallon bucket about 3/4 full and add the acid. Follow the instructions on the acid for correct mixture. Use an acid brush to vigorously scrub the mortar, allow to set for no more than 5 minutes, scrub with a wire brush, and rinse off with a garden hose.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear rubber gloves and eye protection when dealing with chemicals. Never spray human skin with the pressure washer, it will tear the skin.

References

• More information on cleaning brick mortar.

[brickcleaner]

on 11/15/2009 don't let the cleaner dry on the brick or you will have another mess to deal with.