how to clean exterior brick on house?

Question

I just purchased a brick house it was built in 1907 and I want to clean the brick. I just pulled down all of the ivy, some of the roots are left behind on the wall, the brick also looks dirty, how should I clean it? It is a 3 story home

Answer 1

a power washer, but not over 1500 p.s.i., as high pressures might remove mortar or flake off the brick, due to the age of your home

Answer 2

With a garden hose and stiff bristled broom, give the house a quick rinse/light scrub. Having done this, now mix a solution of muriatic acid and water, apply using a sprayer (the type you pump, like a garden sprayer). Spray a light coat over an area of the brick, scrub lightly with stiff broom and rinse with hose. Be sure to wear rubber gloves, and long sleeves. Mix the muriatic according to the instructions on container. Most importantly test in an inconspicuous area.
Muriatic acid may be purchased at most hardware stores, or look in the directory for brick sales, they will have it.

Answer 3

I would try a powerwasher first at a low pressure. Muiratic acid available a home depot works great if you have a powerwasher that can mix fluids in with the water for you. You can also use a scrub brush with a handle to wash the muiratic acid on and rinse with a hose. Remember to wear eye protection for both the power washer and useing the muratic acid.

Answer 4

I would hire a professional that is expereinced in historical homes. Its so important. Mine was effected by the vinage and it really messed up the morter/grout of the bricks.

Good luck

Answer 5

RENT A SANDBLASTER...OR BETTER TO HIRE THE MAN WITH IT...ITS A LOUD AND DIRTY JOB REQUIRING A VACUUM RUNNING TO CATCH THE SAND OFF GRIT.....MAKES THE HOUSE LOOK BRAND BRAND NEW....DID IT

Answer 6

hire someone to do a power-wash,it worked well on our brick.

Answer 7

Use a pressure-washer.