If you’re considering repurposed materials for your next project you might be wondering how to clean reclaimed bricks.
Cleaning used bricks might sound like a big task but it’s surprisingly easy and will make your project look even better when it’s finished.
So without further ado, let’s find out how to clean reclaimed bricks for your next building project.
HOW TO CLEAN RECLAIMED BRICKS: 7 EASY STEPS
SORT YOUR BRICKS BY SIZE
Reclaimed bricks can vary in size and shape. Before you start cleaning and preparing your bricks for your project you should take some time to separate them by size. This will help you plan your project better and ensure you have enough materials to complete it.
When separating your bricks make sure to place any with mortar stuck to them in a separate pile. You’ll need to remove the old mortar before cleaning your bricks.
REMOVE OLD MORTAR REMAINS
To clean old mortar leftovers from reclaimed bricks you’ll need a mason’s hammer and a wire brush. Gently tap the mortar deposit with the mason’s hammer to remove bigger chunks.
You might need to repeat this several times to get rid of particularly stubborn mortar remains. After all the bigger deposits are gone, scrub your bricks with the wire brush and rinse thoroughly to ensure all old mortar is removed.
Example of mortar application between bricks. Explore our Reclaimed Brick Slips from Stoke Reclaimed Brick
CLEAN BRICKS USING MURIATIC ACID
Now that your bricks are clean of mortar remains, it’s time to get rid of any stains on your reclaimed bricks. It’s best to do this in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Make sure to wear eye protection and gloves to prevent the solution from coming into contact with your skin.
Dilute your muriatic acid in a 3:1 ratio and pour it into a clean garden sprayer. Spray the top and sides of your bricks until they are thoroughly soaked in the solution. Afterwards, let them sit for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the solution to work.
RINSE AND REPEAT ON THE OTHER SIDE
Once your bricks have sat for a few minutes it’s time to rinse them with clean water. Be sure to do this in an area where the draining water won’t affect any sewers.
After one side is done, turn your bricks over and repeat the process on the other side.
CHECK THE RESULTS
Allow your bricks to dry completely then inspect the results to assess if they would need a second cleaning. You can spot treat small stains by hand scrubbing them with a brush, however, to get rid of bigger ones you might need to spray the whole brick again.
You should also keep in mind that it might not be possible to remove every single stain. Some of them would have had years and years to set. As long as your bricks are free of mould, moss and mildew, a few small stains here and there are not a problem. They can in fact add to the character of your building and make it look more natural.
Mortarless Bricks: Reclaimed Brick Slips – Oldham Handmade Brick
ADD SEALANT
After spending so much time and effort into cleaning your reclaimed bricks you want to prevent any future stains. The best way to do this is by using a brick sealant. You can apply brick sealant by simply using a regular paintbrush or roller.
Depending on the scale of your project, you might want to leave this step for last as it’s much easier to paint a large surface rather than applying sealant to individual bricks.
KEEP YOUR RECLAIMED BRICKS CLEAN
To maintain the flawless look of your bricks after your building or renovation project is complete you need to clean them regularly. It’s recommended to pressure wash your exterior brick walls once or twice a year with a mild detergent solution.
Reclaimed bricks have a great character and can be used for building projects of all sizes. As long as you do the preparation work of cleaning your used bricks, you’ll find that the possibilities are endless.
Browse our great selection of reclaimed handmade or wire-cut bricks and much more. You can also visit us in person in our yard to view all our available stock. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact our team – we’ll be happy to answer all your questions regarding brick cleaning and maintenance!