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7. Spray the brick thoroughly after cleaning.
Start at the top of the brick and work your
way down, using generous amounts of water
to ensure all the cleaning solution is gone.
Cleaning mold off brick
On parts of brick the sun doesn’t reach, mold
can grow. Use a brick-cleaning detergent
periodically to clean these areas and then dry
them well. To determine what will work best for
your particular brick, check the manufacturer’s
instructions.
CAUTION: A pressure washer may
damage the brick surface if you use too
much pressure.
Stain removal
A household dish detergent mixed with water
and then applied with a stiff brush will remove
most brick stains. For tough stains (oil, paint,
or smoke, for example), special, stronger
treatments may be necessary. Determine the
manufacturer’s recommended product in such
cases and then follow the instructions.
CAUTION: Cover or otherwise protect
areas of brick you’re not cleaning.
Efflorescence removal
Efflorescence is a white, crystalline deposit that
may occur on bricks. While the efflorescence
itself doesn’t damage bricks, it’s a symptom of
potential issues related to water. That’s why
it’s important to periodically inspect bricks for
efflorescence. If you discover it, remove it from
the brick and try to determine the cause. Often,
mitigation of a water-related problem will be
required.
Use a dry brush to try to remove efflorescence.
If it doesn’t work or doesn’t work fully, use the
brush and water. If you must use water, do
it when the brick is dry, as you don’t want to
compound the problem. If you’re still unable
to remove it, purchase a special solution made
specifically for removing efflorescence from
bricks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
and begin on a small, obscure area to ensure
the solution doesn’t stain the bricks.
Homeowners association
If your home is part of a homeowners
association, check with it regarding exterior
maintenance. You should be familiar with what
you can and cannot do and what maintenance
items the association is responsible.
Visit the manufacturer’s website for more
information about your exterior brick.
