What is Brick Cleaning: A Complete Guide

Monday November 20, 2023

Brick cleaning is a crucial process in maintaining the beauty and longevity of your property. Whether it’s the exterior brickwork of your home or a commercial building, keeping the bricks clean is essential for their long-term integrity. 

Generally, it involves the removal of dirt, grime, stains, and other unwanted elements, including mortar and cement deposits, that accumulate on the surface over time. With the right brick cleaner, cleaning solutions, and techniques, you can restore the original appearance of your bricks and prevent potential damage. 

In this complete guide, we will explore various brick cleaning methods, common brick stains, and how to effectively clean them. So, if you’re looking to revitalise your property’s brickwork, read on!

Looking for a professional and efficient brick cleaning service?

When it comes to cleaning bricks, it’s essential to choose a professional and efficient service provider that understands the intricacies of the process.

Environ Restoration Services is a leading provider of brick cleaning services in London. We use the latest cleaning methods and equipment to ensure that your bricks are cleaned properly and safely. Our team of experienced and qualified technicians have over 15 years of experience delivering this special service to the satisfaction of our customers.

Whether it’s clay brick, mortar joints, or any other surfaces, Environ Restoration Services has the expertise to clean them thoroughly and efficiently to restore the pristine appearance of your bricks.

Contact us right now to schedule a FREE brick cleaning survey and get a budget-friendly estimate!

Why Clean Bricks?

You might wonder why it is important to clean brick. Well, apart from the obvious aesthetic benefits, there are several other reasons why you should invest in brick cleaning regularly.

1. Preserving Longevity: Regular cleaning prevents dirt and grime from deteriorating the surface of the bricks, ensuring they remain strong and intact for years to come.
2. Enhancing Curb Appeal: Clean bricks significantly improve the overall appearance of your property, boosting its curb appeal and leaving a positive impression on visitors and passersby.
3. Preventing Damage: Stains like moss and mould can lead to structural issues if left unchecked. Cleaning these stains not only restores the appearance but also protects the building from potential harm. It eliminates dirty brick tinting to give your brickwork a refreshing look.
4. Maintaining Value: A well-maintained property holds its value better in the real estate market, and clean bricks play a crucial role in preserving the property’s worth.

What are the Most Common Brick Stains?

Before we dive into the cleaning methods, it’s essential to identify the most common brick stains you might encounter. Each type of stain requires a specific approach for effective removal. Here are the most frequent culprits:

• Efflorescence: A white, powdery substance that forms on the surface of bricks due to salt deposits.
• Paint and Graffiti Stains: Unwanted paint and graffiti can deface the appearance of your bricks and require specialised cleaning techniques.
• Moss and Mould: Shady and damp areas can promote the growth of moss and mould, leading to greenish stains on the bricks.
• Vanadium Stains: These stains typically appear as green or brown spots and are caused by exposure to metal elements.
• Mortar Stains: During construction, excess mortar can splatter onto the brick surface, leaving unattractive stains.

Now that we have a good understanding of common brick stains, let’s explore the various brick cleaning methods and how to handle each stain effectively.

Types of Brick Cleaning Methods

There are several methods available for brick cleaning, each catering to different types of stains and surfaces. The most commonly used techniques are:

1. Chemical Cleaning

This involves using specific chemicals, such as brick acid or a brick acid cleaner, to dissolve and remove stains from the brick surface. The chemical solution is applied to the stained areas, left to soak, and then scrubbed with a wire brush or scrubbing pad to remove the loosened grime. While this method can be very efficient, caution must be exercised to avoid damaging the bricks or surrounding surfaces.

2. Pressure Cleaning

Also known as pressure washing, it is a popular choice for cleaning exterior brickwork. It uses a high-powered stream of water to blast away dirt and stains to clean brickwork. However, pressure washing should be done carefully, as excessive force can damage the bricks and mortar joints, especially if it’s clay brickwork. It’s best to leave pressure cleaning to the professionals who know how to handle the equipment properly and protect the bricks during the process.

3. Steam Cleaning

Steam brick cleaning involves a gentle yet efficient eco-friendly cleaning method which uses high-temperature steam to eliminate stains. It is especially effective for removing organic matter like moss and mould.

Some Common Brick Stains and How to Clean Them

Now that we’ve explored the different cleaning methods let’s look at some common brick stains and learn how to tackle them effectively.

1. Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a common problem on brick surfaces and appears as a white, powdery deposit. It occurs when soluble salts from within the bricks are brought to the surface by water and then left behind as the water evaporates. To clean efflorescence stains, follow these steps:

• Remove loose deposits using a wire brush or a soft bristle brush.
• Mix a solution of warm water and vinegar (1 part vinegar to 3 part water).
• Scrub the affected areas with the vinegar solution using a sponge or soft brush.
• Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining residue.

2. Paint and Graffiti Stains

Paint and graffiti stains on brick surfaces can be challenging to remove, especially if they’ve been there for a while. Here’s how you can clean them:

• For paint removal: Scrape off as much paint as possible using a putty knife or scraper, then apply a paint stripper or solvent suitable for masonry surfaces to the remaining paint. Let it sit for the recommended time, and then scrub the area with a wire brush or stiff bristle brush. Rinse with water.
• For graffiti stains: First, try to remove graffiti using mild detergent and warm water. If that doesn’t work, dilute hydrochloric acid or use a graffiti remover specifically designed for masonry surfaces and rinse thoroughly.

3. Moss and Mould

Moss and mould stains are commonly found in damp and shaded areas. To clean them:

• Mix a solution of warm water and bleach (1 part bleach to 4 part water).
• Apply the solution to the affected areas using a brush or sponge.
• Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, but avoid letting it dry on the surface.
• Scrub the stains gently and thoroughly rinse the area with clean water.

4. Vanadium Stains

Vanadium stains typically appear as green or brown spots on bricks, often caused by exposure to metal elements. To clean vanadium stains:

• Create a cleaning solution using warm water and a mild detergent or brick cleaning acid.
• Apply the solution to the stained areas and scrub gently with a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with your garden hose.

5. Mortar Stains

During construction, excess mortar can splatter onto the brick surface, leaving unattractive stains. To clean mortar stains:

• Wait for the mortar to dry completely before attempting to remove it.
• Use a brick-cleaning solution, muriatic acid or a mixture of warm water and vinegar to soften the mortar.
• Gently scrub the stained areas with a soft brush or sponge.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water to prevent streaking.

Need Expert Help For A Faster and Satisfying Result?

While some brick cleaning tasks can be accomplished through DIY efforts, others are best left to the professionals. 

Trust Environ Restoration Services for a fast, thorough and affordable brick cleaning service. We have the experience, latest equipment, and knowledge to tackle even the toughest stains without compromising the integrity of your bricks. 

By choosing our professional service, you can ensure a more satisfying result, leaving your brickwork looking as good as new.

Why You Should Choose Environ Restoration Services

Environ Restoration Services is a leading provider of brick cleaning services in London. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, we are experts in restoring the natural beauty of brickwork.

We use a variety of methods to clean bricks, including soft washing, steam cleaning, and chemical cleaning. We will assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate method for your property.

Our brick cleaning services are:

• Professional: We are a team of experienced professionals committed to providing high-quality work.
• Reliable: We are punctual and efficient and always meet our deadlines.
• Thorough: We will clean your bricks thoroughly, removing all dirt, grime, and mould.
• Safe: We use safe and environmentally friendly cleaning products.

If you are looking for a professional and reliable brick cleaning service in London, then Environ Restoration Services is the right choice for you. Contact us today to schedule a free survey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I clean my bricks?

A: Cleaning frequency depends on various factors, such as the location, weather conditions, and the level of dirt and stains. Avoid cleaning exterior brick in extremely cold weather.

Q: What are the benefits of hiring a professional brick cleaning service?

A: There are several benefits to hiring a professional brick cleaning service. First, professionals have the experience and expertise to clean your bricks properly and safely. Second, professionals have access to the latest cleaning methods and equipment. Third, professionals can guarantee their work.

Q: Are steam cleaning services expensive?

A: Here at Environ Restoration Services, steam cleaning services are offered at competitive rates according to the size of the area to be cleaned and the extent of the stains.

Conclusion

Brick cleaning is an essential aspect of property maintenance that should not be overlooked. Whether you’re dealing with efflorescence, paint, moss, or other stubborn stains, using the right cleaning methods and solutions is crucial for preserving the beauty and integrity of your bricks. 

For the best and safest results, let Environ Restoration Services handle the brick cleaning for you. This will allow you to enjoy clean and attractive brickwork that adds value and charm to your property for years to come.

Contact us right now to get started!