Brick is a popular building material that gives any structure a classic and timeless look. The brick can become dirty and stained as time passes due to weather elements, pollution, and dust. Efflorescence is a common issue caused by several factors, like humidity, temperature changes, and rain. It is the process in which salt migrates to the surface of a porous material, such as brick, stone, or concrete, where it forms a coating. If left untreated, efflorescence can cause severe damage to walls and structures. Knowing how to clean brick is not a difficult task, and one of the most effective ways to clean brick is by using EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover. This powerful cleaning solution can remove stubborn stains and efflorescence from brick surfaces, leaving them looking brand new.
Why is Cleaning Brick Important?
Brick is a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Still, like all things that degrade over time, dirt, grime, and other pollutants can accumulate on the brick surface, making it look dull and unattractive. If brick surfaces are not cleaned regularly, they can develop efflorescence, which looks like a white and powdery substance that forms on the surface of the brick. Efflorescence can weaken the brick’s structure over time. Knowing how to clean brick can prevent efflorescence from forming, prolong the brick’s life, enhance the building’s appearance, and increase its value.
Cleaning brick can also improve the health of people living or working inside the building. Dirty brick surfaces can harbor harmful bacteria, allergens, and pollutants that can affect indoor air quality and cause health problems such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
How to Clean Brick Using Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean brick surfaces quickly and efficiently. A pressure washer is a machine that uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt, grime, and other stains from the surface of the brick. Before starting the pressure washing process, you must prepare the brick surface by removing any loose debris or dirt using a broom or a leaf blower.
Once the surface is clean, you can start pressure washing by following these general steps:
- Make the cleaning solution. Fill a pump up sprayer with water and the appropriate cleaning solution. You will get the best results using a commercial brick cleaner like EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover.
- Adjust the pressure washer’s nozzle to a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the brick surface – it’s best to use a pressure washer in the range of 100 – 1500 PSI.
- Start spraying the water on the brick surface from about 3 feet. Move the wand slowly back and forth to cover the entire surface.
- Once you have rinsed the surface, use the pump up sprayer to apply the cleaning solution. Let it sit or dwell for a few minutes; don’t let it dry!
- If you encounter stubborn stains or efflorescence, you can 1) scrub with a brush and/or increase the pressure slightly or, better yet, use a rotating nozzle like the Turbo Nozzle.
- Rinse the surface with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
- Allow the surface to dry completely before applying any sealant or coating.
Always test any cleaning agent in an inconspicuous area first, wear protective gear, and follow the instructions on the bottle. Following these simple steps, you can restore your brick surface to its original beauty and extend its lifespan for years.
Why Use EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover?
EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover is a powerful cleaning solution formulated to remove calcium, lime, and efflorescence from brick surfaces. Apply it to a wet surface and watch the foaming action work magic. Use it in dry conditions at comfortable temperatures for optimal results.
And the best part? EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover is entirely customizable! Mix the solution depending on the severity of the build-up to give you complete control over the cleaning process! Mix 40 to 80 ounces of EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover with 5 gallons of water and adjust the strength to suit your cleaning needs. As the contractor, you have the sole discretion to determine the desired strength for your pressure washing job, ensuring you thoroughly clean brick surfaces every time!
Key Takeaways:
- Efflorescence is a common issue caused by several factors, like humidity, temperature changes, and rain.
- One of the most effective ways to clean brick is using EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover.
- If brick surfaces are not cleaned regularly, they can develop efflorescence, which looks like a white and powdery substance that forms on the surface of the brick.
- Efflorescence can weaken the brick’s structure over time.
- Dirty brick surfaces can harbor harmful bacteria, allergens, and pollutants that can affect indoor air quality and cause health problems such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
- Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean brick surfaces quickly and efficiently.
- EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover is completely customizable! Mix the solution depending on the severity of the build-up.
Keep Brick Surfaces Looking New
Don’t ignore efflorescence on brick surfaces, as it can indicate a larger underlying issue and lower the value of a property. A powerful cleaning solution, such as EFF-OFF Calcium and Efflorescence Remover, has been specially formulated to effectively remove calcium, lime, and efflorescence from brick surfaces and help pressure washers get the cleaning brick job done. If you want to learn more about pressure washing techniques, solutions, and tips, we are here to provide top industry information. At PowerWash.com, we’re passionate about helping you access everything you need to succeed at pressure washing – from tips and detergents to equipment; we have you covered! Check us out and get started today!
