How to Dilute Muriatic Acid for Washing Brick
When laying bricks for a new patio or wall, or when replacing broken bricks, it is necessary to clean the excess mortar from them. One of the most effective ways of cleaning brick is with muriatic acid. Muriatic acid is applied either through a sprayer or simply scrubbing it onto the bricks with a brush. Muriatic acid cannot be applied at full strength however. It is necessary to dilute muriatic acid for washing bricks to ensure that it does not damage the brick. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Put on protective rubber gloves and eye protection before mixing muriatic acid. This helps to avoid getting it on your skin or in your eyes accidentally. Place a box of baking soda nearby to spread over any spills.
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Fill a 5-gallon bucket with 3 1/2 gallons of clean water. Pour a 1/2 gallon of muriatic acid slowly into the bucket without splashing it on the ground. Always mix acid with water and not water with acid. If you use a different size container, mix 10 parts water to one part muriatic acid.
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Mix the water and acid together slowly with a stick. Apply the acid mixture to an obscure portion of the brick to ensure it does not stain your bricks. After scrubbing the brick, rinse it thoroughly with clean water.
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Sprinkle baking soda over any spills to prevent damage from the muriatic acid when applying. Scrub the baking soda into the acid spill with a stiff brush and rinse the area thoroughly.
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Tips & Warnings
Never pour water into acid. This will cause a chemical reaction and intense heat.
Always mix acid outdoors and avoid mixing or applying acid on windy days. Wind can blow the acid upon you causing severe burns.
Always read the label on the bottle for all safety precautions.
