How to Remove Asphalt Sealer From Bricks

Although it is true that the sealer will wear away over time, there is a straightforward removal process for both oil- and non-oil-based asphalt sealers.

1. Mix a cleaner such as Simple Green with a full bucket of water. Place a drop cloth over the asphalt surface that runs alongside the bricks.

2. Wet down and scrub the bricks with a scrub brush and the cleaning mixture. Allow the cleaning mixture a few minutes to settle on the asphalt sealer.

3. Rinse the bricks using a power washer. Set the psi (pounds per square inch) to 800 or less by rotating the dial in a clockwise direction. Too much water pressure will damage the brick. Repeat the cleaning and rinsing process as many times as needed to remove the asphalt sealer.

4. Pour a solvent cleaner such as Solvall directly onto the oil-based asphalt sealer. It is important to wear safety glasses and gloves during this project. The asphalt sealer can damage the skin and eyes.

5. Scrub the area briskly with a scrub brush. Let the solvent cleaner soak on the sealant for several minutes.

6. Turn the power washer on and set the pressure control dial to 800 psi by twisting it in a clockwise direction. Rinse away the asphalt sealer and solvent cleaner. The solvent cleaner will emulsify and render the oil-based sealant harmless to the environment.