Cleaning brick surfaces can be challenging, especially when dealing with stubborn stains like soot or dirt that have been absorbed into the porous material. While traditional household cleaners may fall short, using an acid-based solution can effectively restore your brick’s appearance. This Old House mason Mark McCullough demonstrates the right technique for cleaning brick with acid.
Why Use Acid To Clean Brick?
Acid-based cleaners work by chemically reacting with the dirt and grime embedded in the brick’s pores. This reaction helps break down and lift stubborn stains that water and soap alone can’t remove. Acidic solutions are particularly effective for removing soot and smoke stains from fireplace surrounds, cleaning exterior brick walls affected by pollution, and restoring the appearance of old or neglected brick surfaces.
Types of Acid Cleaners for Brick
While muriatic acid is a common choice for brick cleaning, it’s a highly aggressive substance. A milder acidic detergent is a safer and equally effective option for most needs. These products include the following:
- Citric acid cleaners
- Masonry cleaners with a mild acid content
- Phosphoric acid-based solutions
Safety Precautions
Prioritize safety before beginning the cleaning process. Even mild acidic solutions can be harmful if mishandled, so take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe cleaning process.
Personal Protective Equipment
When handling acidic cleaning agents, proper attire prevents direct skin contact and eye irritation. Ensure you have the following safety gear:
- Closed-toe shoes
- Long rubber gloves that extend to the elbows
- Protective clothing that covers your skin
- Safety goggles (not just glasses) for full eye protection
Preparing the Work Area
To protect your surroundings, take the following steps:
- Lay down a cloth drop cloth to prevent scratches.
- Cover the drop cloth with a plastic tarp for water protection.
- Use a containment sock or rolled towels around the cleaning area to control runoff.
Ventilation
Work in a well-ventilated area when using acid-based cleaners. The fumes from the acid can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. Ensure windows and doors are open, or use fans to circulate air.
Materials and Tools Needed
Gather the following items before starting:
- Acid-based brick cleaner
- Two buckets
- Long-handled scrub brushes
- Clean water
- Plastic tarps and drop cloths
- Containment socks or old towels
- Personal protective equipment
You’ll also need a measuring cup and a plastic stirrer for accurately mixing the cleaning solution.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Follow these steps to safely and effectively clean your brick surface with acid.
1. Prepare the Brick Surface
Begin by dry brushing the brick to remove loose debris. This initial step helps the cleaning solution work more effectively on the embedded dirt. Use a stiff-bristled brush to clear all surface dust and loose particles.
2. Pre-Wet the Brick
Using clean water, thoroughly wet the brick surface. This important step prevents the acid from being absorbed too quickly, which could lead to uneven cleaning or damage. It also helps reduce the concentration of acid that penetrates the brick pores. “If you don’t wet down this wall and I just go right direct with the material,” McCullough says, “we’re going to get a burn effect.”
3. Mix the Cleaning Solution
In a separate bucket, mix the acid-based cleaner with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add the acid to the water, not the other way around, to prevent splashing and potential burns. Use the measuring cup and plastic stirrer to ensure the mixture is well blended.
4. Apply the Cleaning Solution
Using a long-handled brush, apply the cleaning solution to the wet brick surface. Focus on even application rather than scrubbing at this stage. An even coat will prevent patchy cleaning results.
5. Allow the Solution To Work
McCullough suggests letting the cleaning solution sit on the brick for 3–5 minutes. This dwell time allows the acid to react with the dirt and grime. Monitor the reaction process to ensure you don’t leave it on for too long, which could damage the brick. With a very porous brick, McCullough says the curation time may be quicker.
6. Scrub and Rinse
After the dwell time, use a clean brush dipped in water to scrub the brick surface, removing the loosened dirt and neutralizing the acid. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. This step stops the acid reaction and ensures no residue is left behind.
7. Repeat If Necessary
For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process. If so, consider increasing the concentration of the cleaning solution slightly and scrub more vigorously. Follow the same safety and preparation steps each time you repeat the process to prevent damage to the brick or surrounding areas.
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the best cleaning results, test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions. Work in small sections to ensure thorough cleaning and rinsing. Keep the brick wet throughout the cleaning process to prevent acid burns on the brick surface. We recommend avoiding cleaning on hot, sunny days, as rapid drying can lead to streaking.
To avoid unwanted results, ensure you are using a high-quality acid-based cleaner designed specifically for brick. Regularly assess the cleaned sections to ensure uniformity in the cleaning process.
Care and Maintenance
Once you’ve successfully cleaned your brick surface, ongoing maintenance will keep it looking its best.
After cleaning, allow the brick to dry completely. Then, inspect for any missed spots or areas that may need additional attention. Address these immediately to prevent grime build-up. Consider applying a brick sealer to protect against future staining. Sealers create a barrier against dirt, soot, and other contaminants.
Implement regular cleaning routines to maintain the brick’s appearance. Regular light cleaning can reduce the need for heavy-duty acid cleaning in the future. Use mild detergents or specialized brick cleaners that are less invasive than acids. This helps maintain the brick’s integrity over time.
Perform routine inspections of your brick surfaces to catch and address dirt build-up early. Early intervention can prevent difficult-to-clean stains from setting in.
Our Conclusion
Cleaning brick with acid can dramatically improve its appearance, removing years of built-up grime and stains. While effective, this method requires careful preparation, proper safety precautions, and attention to detail. By following these steps and tips, you can safely restore your brick surfaces. For large areas or stubborn stains that won’t come out with DIY efforts, consider hiring professionals who have the expertise and tools to handle the job effectively and safely.