Your brick house exterior is one of the most striking aspects of your home’s curb appeal. But over time, exposure to the elements can leave it looking less than pristine. Dirt, mold, and moss can take hold, dulling the vibrant color of the bricks. Fortunately, cleaning your brick house exterior isn’t as complicated as it might seem. With the right tools, some simple techniques, and a bit of effort, you can have your home looking as good as new in no time.
Understanding Your Brick House Exterior
Not all bricks are created equal. The bricks used in your home may vary in material, color, and porosity. While some bricks are incredibly durable, others are more prone to absorbing moisture and dirt. Because bricks are naturally porous, they can trap dirt, mold, and mildew, which leads to discoloration and, over time, can cause deterioration. This is why it’s important to clean your brick exterior regularly.
Common Issues with Brick Exteriors
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to understand what you’re dealing with. Some of the most common issues with brick exteriors include:
- Mold and Mildew: Moist environments can encourage mold and mildew growth, leaving dark, unsightly spots on your brick.
- Dirt and Grime: Wind, rain, and pollution can deposit dirt and grime, dulling your brick’s natural color.
- Efflorescence: This white, powdery residue is caused by water-soluble salts rising to the brick surface.
- Moss and Algae: Particularly on shaded areas, moss and algae can make the bricks look green and feel slippery.
When Should You Clean Your Brick Exterior?
The best time to clean your brick house exterior depends on a few factors. If you live in a region with lots of rain, cleaning your brick once a year might be necessary. Homes in drier areas may only need cleaning every 2-3 years. Spring or early fall is often the ideal time since the weather is mild, and there’s less chance of freezing temperatures or extreme heat interfering with the cleaning process.
Tools and Supplies You Will Need
Gathering the right tools before you start can make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Safety Equipment: Gloves, protective goggles, and long sleeves to protect from cleaning solutions.
- Cleaning Solutions: You can use commercial brick cleaners or create your own with simple ingredients like vinegar and water.
- Scrub Brushes: A stiff-bristled brush is perfect for scrubbing away dirt.
- Power Washer (Optional): For large areas, a power washer can make quick work of stubborn stains.
- Garden Hose: To rinse off the cleaning solution.
Preparation Before Cleaning
Before you start scrubbing away, take the time to inspect your brick exterior for any signs of damage. Cracked or crumbling bricks should be repaired before you clean, as high-pressure water or harsh scrubbing can make the damage worse.
You’ll also want to protect surrounding areas like windows, plants, and doors. Cover them with plastic sheeting to prevent cleaning solutions from causing any harm.
DIY Cleaning Solutions for Brick
You don’t always need expensive products to clean your brick house. Here are a few DIY cleaning solutions that work wonders:
- Vinegar and Water: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to create an effective, eco-friendly cleaner. This works well for removing light dirt and mildew.
- Baking Soda Paste: For tougher stains, mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Scrub this into the brick with a brush and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Commercial Cleaners: If DIY methods don’t work, there are plenty of commercial products designed specifically for brick cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Brick House Exterior
- Prepare the Area: Cover windows, doors, and plants. Inspect the brick for damage.
- Apply the Cleaning Solution: Using a spray bottle or pump sprayer, apply your chosen cleaning solution to the brick.
- Scrub the Surface: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the surface. Focus on areas with visible stains, mold, or grime.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, use a garden hose or power washer on a low setting to rinse off the solution.
Using a Pressure Washer on Brick
A pressure washer can be a great tool for cleaning large areas of brick, but it must be used with caution. Set the pressure to a lower level (around 500-1000 psi) to avoid damaging the bricks or mortar. Always spray at a slight angle to minimize the force on the surface.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains
Some stains can be tough to remove, but with the right techniques, they can be conquered:
- Mold and Mildew: Use a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. Scrub it in and rinse thoroughly.
- Efflorescence: A diluted vinegar solution can help break down the white salt deposits.
- Oil and Rust Stains: For these types of stains, commercial brick cleaners are usually more effective than DIY solutions.
Protecting Your Brick After Cleaning
Once your brick exterior is clean, consider sealing it to protect against future dirt and moisture. A high-quality brick sealer can extend the life of your bricks and make future cleanings easier.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Brick
There are a few things you should never do when cleaning brick:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals like muriatic acid unless absolutely necessary, as they can damage the brick.
- Don’t use metal brushes, as these can scratch the surface.
- Never pressure wash with a high psi setting—this can strip away the brick’s surface and lead to damage.
Professional Cleaning Services: When to Call the Experts
If your brick exterior is in rough shape or the stains just won’t budge, it might be time to call in professional cleaners. They have specialized tools and knowledge to clean the brick without causing any damage. Look for services that specialize in brick or masonry cleaning.
Environmental Considerations
Whenever possible, opt for eco-friendly cleaning solutions that won’t harm the surrounding environment. Additionally, be mindful of water usage—especially if you’re using a power washer. Try to minimize runoff, and avoid using excessive amounts of cleaning solution.
Conclusion
Maintaining the exterior of your brick house isn’t just about appearances—it’s also about preserving the structure’s longevity. Regular cleaning can prevent issues like mold, mildew, and efflorescence, keeping your home looking its best for years to come. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, a clean brick exterior is within reach.
FAQs
1. How often should I clean my brick house exterior? It depends on your location and climate, but once every 1-3 years is usually sufficient.
2. Can I use bleach to clean my brick walls? Yes, but it should be heavily diluted. A mix of one part bleach to three parts water works best for mold and mildew.
3. What’s the best time of year to clean brick exteriors? Spring and early fall are ideal, as the weather is mild and cleaning solutions are less likely to freeze or evaporate quickly.
4. Should I seal my brick after cleaning? Yes, sealing your brick after cleaning helps protect it from moisture, dirt, and future stains.
5. How can I prevent mold and mildew on my brick exterior? Regular cleaning and sealing can help prevent mold and mildew from growing. Keeping the area dry and well-ventilated is also essential.
