Brick's natural clay composition not only gives this material its classic earth-colored finish, but also a tremendous level of strength and durability. Structures built from brick often outlast those made from wood or other materials, and some brick buildings date back several centuries. Over time, exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures may leave brick with signs of wear, including crumbling mortar and a dull or dirty finish. Cleaning and repairing old or damaged brick can restore this material to like-new condition and allow its natural beauty to shine through.
Things You Will Need
- Safety glasses
- Dust mask
- Masonry hammer
- Flat chisel
- Mortar mix
- Water
- Bucket
- Brick trowel
- Contouring tool
- Angle grinder
- Garden hose
- Household cleaner or dish detergent
- Natural bristle brush
Repair Damaged Mortar
1
Put on safety glasses and a dust mask.
2
Use a hammer and flat chisel to chip away loose or damaged mortar from between bricks. Work carefully to avoid chiseling the bricks themselves.
3
Mix masonry mortar in a bucket according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a brick trowel to insert mortar into any gaps or empty joints between the bricks. Wipe excess mortar from the face of the bricks using the edge of the trowel.
4
Apply a brick contouring tool, or jointer, to the new joints. Choose a tool that can be used to create a profile that matches the existing mortar profile. For example, use a tool with a round profile if the existing mortar is rounded.
Clean the Brick
1
Make sure the mortar is thoroughly dry. Spray the brick with water from a garden hose until it is completely wet.
2
Spray or squirt a household cleaner, such as dish detergent, onto the brick.
3
Work the detergent into the brick using a natural bristle brush. Again spray the surface to rinse away dirt and detergent.
4
Wait for the wall to dry, then check your results. If the wall is clean, the project is complete. If there still are stains or dirt on the brick, repeat Steps 1 through 3 using a cleaner designed for use on brick.
Source: HomeGuides.sfgate.com
