Cleaning brick surfaces is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. When it comes to interior brick walls and floors, regular cleaning can keep them looking great. If your brick is untreated or painted, a simple wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth should be done at least twice a month to get rid of dust. For interior brick floors, sweeping or vacuuming followed by mopping once a week is recommended to keep them clean.

When it comes to exterior brick surfaces, they typically require less frequent cleaning. Generally, a detailed cleaning once or twice a year should do. This could involve using a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt, grime, and any buildup that has accumulated over time. Additionally, inspecting the brick for any signs of damage or deterioration during these cleanings is advisable to address any issues promptly.

It's important to note that the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on factors such as the location of the brick surface, the level of foot traffic or exposure to elements it receives, and the climate of the area. For instance, brick surfaces in high traffic areas with heavy rainfall may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance and integrity.

Furthermore, addressing any spills or stains promptly can prevent them from becoming ingrained into the brick, making them more challenging to remove later on.

To clean brick surfaces effectively, you'll need a few tools and materials that are easy to find. Here's what you'll need:

Materials:

  1. Dishwashing liquid or all-purpose cleaner for general cleaning.
  2. Distilled white vinegar, which can help dissolve stubborn stains and mineral deposits.
  3. Table salt, which can be used as an abrasive agent for scrubbing.
  4. Chlorine bleach, for disinfecting and removing mold or mildew stains.

Equipment / Tools:

  1. A vacuum cleaner or a broom to remove loose dirt and debris from the surface.
  2. Microfiber cloths for wiping down and cleaning the brick.
  3. A garden hose with a spray nozzle or a power washer for outdoor cleaning.
  4. Buckets to hold water or cleaning solutions.
  5. A spray bottle for applying cleaning solutions.
  6. A nylon bristled scrub brush for scrubbing tougher stains.
  7. A grout brush for cleaning in between brick joints.
  8. Rubber gloves and eye protection to keep your hands and eyes safe during cleaning.

By having these tools and materials on hand, you'll be equipped to tackle various cleaning tasks effectively and keep your brick surfaces looking their best.

Cleaning Interior Brick Surfaces

Cleaning interior brick surfaces is important to maintain their appearance and cleanliness. Here's a detailed guide on how to clean different types of interior brick surfaces:

Cleaning Brick Floors:

  1. Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floors to remove any loose dirt, grit, or debris.
  2. Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing one part distilled white vinegar with 10 to 15 parts warm water in a bucket.
  3. Dampen a microfiber mop in the cleaning solution and wring it until it's slightly damp.
  4. Mop the floor with the dampened mop, ensuring to cover the entire surface. For stubborn stains, you can use a stiff nylon scrub brush dipped in the cleaning solution.
  5. Allow the floors to air dry. There's no need to rinse as the vinegar solution effectively cleans and leaves no residue. Alternatively, you can use a steam mop for a chemical free cleaning solution, which is excellent for maintaining the pristine appearance of indoor brick floors.

Cleaning Brick Walls and Fireplaces:

  1. Use a damp microfiber cloth, duster, or the vacuum's hose and brush attachment to remove dust and any insect webs from the brick surface.
  2. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add 3-4 drops of dishwashing liquid or all-purpose cleaner for a gentle cleaning solution.
  3. Fill a bucket with warm water for rinsing.
  4. Starting from the top of the brick wall, spray the surface generously with the cleaning solution until it's carefully wet.
  5. Let the cleaning solution sit for 3-4 minutes to loosen dirt and stains, then use a microfiber cloth to wipe away soil. For heavily stained areas, use a nylon bristled scrub brush.
  6. Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the bucket of warm water, wring it out, and use it to wipe away the cleaning solution and soil from the brick. Rinse the cloth frequently and change the rinse water as needed to ensure thorough cleaning.

Removing Smoke Stains from Fireplaces:

  1. Prepare two buckets with cleaning solutions. In one bucket, mix 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid with one gallon of warm water. In the second bucket, mix one cup of distilled white vinegar with one gallon of cool water.
  2. Dip a scrub brush into the soapy solution and sprinkle it liberally with table salt to act as a mild abrasive for loosening the dirt from the brick.
  3. Scrub the brick surface carefully with the soapy solution and salt mixture, then use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened coal.
  4. Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the water and vinegar solution to rinse away any soapy residue and eliminate smoky odors from the brick.

Cleaning Exterior Brick Surfaces

Cleaning exterior brick surfaces is crucial to maintain their appearance and longevity. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to clean your outdoor brick surfaces effectively:

Preparation:

  1. Mix 1 tablespoon of chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket to create a cleaning solution.
  2. Before starting the cleaning process, if you're cleaning a brick yard, make sure to remove all furniture to prevent overspray.
  3. Ensure that all windows and doors are closed tightly to prevent any cleaning solution from seeping indoors.
  4. Cover outdoor electrical outlets and light fixtures with duct tape if they're not properly covered.
  5. Protect surrounding shrubs and grass with plastic tarps to prevent any damage from the cleaning solution.
  6. Equip yourself with eye protection, rubber gloves, and old clothes to protect yourself from cleaning products and overspray.

Wetting the Brick Surface:

  1. Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle or a power washer set on low to carefully wet the brick surface. It's essential to wet only the amount of area you can clean completely before the brick dries.
  2. If you're cleaning a brick yard, use the water spray to remove any loose soil or leaves that have accumulated on the brick.

Applying the Cleaning Solution:

  1. Starting at the top of a wall or corner of a patio, use a nylon-bristled scrub brush to apply the bleach solution to a three by three foot section of the brick.
  2. Scrub the brick and mortar while keeping the brick moist, including areas where the cleaning solution drips down the wall.
  3. Once a section is clean, rinse it carefully with water, and then move on to the next area.

Removing Mold Stains:

  1. For areas heavily stained with mold or moss growth, apply the bleach and water solution heavily and let it work for at least 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
  2. Repeat the process as needed until the stains are effectively removed.

Pro Tips for a Fresh Look

If you notice rust stains on the brick, it's best to tackle them first. Use an oxalic acid based cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend or make a paste of lemon juice and table salt. Avoid using chlorine bleach on rust stains as it can make them permanent.

For oil and grease spills on brick, try soaking them up with a thick layer of kitty litter or sawdust. Leave it on the affected area for at least 24 hours, then sweep it away. Repeat this process until all the oil is absorbed from the absorbent brick. Regularly check your brick surfaces for any cracks and fix them promptly. This helps prevent further damage and maintains the structural integrity of the brick.

If you live in a historic home, it's essential to be cautious when using a pressure washer as the grout used in older constructions is often softer than modern products. Seek advice from a professional before attempting to clean your brick surfaces to avoid causing any damage.