How to Clean Rust Off of a Brick
Rust on brick can occur from erosion or unprotected rusted metals dripping onto the surface. Long-term exposure to rust can damage brick, deteriorating it and making it appear worn. Replacing brick in house siding or on a patio can be difficult, but it can be cleaned. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Latex gloves
- Dust mask
- Goggles
- Long shirts and pants
- Painter's plastic
- Bucket
- Oxalic acid
- Plastic measuring cup
- Nylon scrubbing brush
- Hose
Instructions
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Prepare
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1
Dress in long clothing to protect your skin. Don latex gloves, dust mask and goggles--the chemical used to clean rust off brick is toxic.
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2
Remove all objects from the brick area.
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3
Mix the oxalic acid in a bucket of water. Read the label on the bottle for the specific ratio and for warnings and other important information.
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4
Place painter's plastic around any shrubbery or plants in the area of the brick. The oxalic acid can destroy plant life.
Clean
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5
Dunk the plastic measuring cup into the bucket. Pour the solution on the rust stain. Saturate the entire area with the oxalic acid mixture.
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6
Scrub the rusted brick with the nylon brush. Use a circular motion over the total area. Scour for approximately five minutes. Add more solution if necessary.
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7
Completely hose off the brick siding or patio. Concentrate on the treated area as well as the remaining brick. This will remove any oxalic acid that may have made contact with the untreated area.
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8
Allow the brick to dry completely before using the area. This will take roughly 12 hours, depending on the weather.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean rust off brick as soon as you discover the problem.
Oxalic acid is a natural product found in some foods, but in its powdery, raw form it is extremely toxic. Keep children and pets away from the area until the bricks dry. Always wear protective gear while working with the chemical.
References
- Photo Credit Robert Linder:http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1211345
