Knowing how to clean and apply the proper brick maintenance techniques can prolong the lifespan of your bricks. Cleaning with the use of certain chemicals can be made on any brick surface, but with the exclusion of certain detergents with harsh ingredients. Some products may stain the brick so it is best to rinse with water after using chemical cleaner.
The best cleaning agent for brick masonry is mild detergent rinsed with low water pressure. The use of plain water is seen as a better method to prevent damaging the surface. However, if high or moderate pressure is to be used, the masonry surface must be appropriately repaired before proceeding.
If the recommended brick maintenance techniques fail to achieve satisfactory results, repainting the bricks in various tones is the next best alternative. In other conditions, however, there are certain techniques to apply relating to the maintenance and cleaning of brick masonry work.
As a rule when using chemicals, soak the brickwork with water making sure not to over saturate. This method prevents the chemicals from being absorbed by the bricks. Again, water is the best agent to rinse traces of chemicals after cleaning. A high-pressure hose is not recommended at this time.
When cleaning with chemicals, use wooden scrapers and brush with stiff fiber to ensure that the bricks are not damaged. Protect adjacent features such as windows, doors, ceilings, and floor by covering them when applying the chemicals. In localized application, cleaning liquids can be introduced as a poultice with filler in the like of powdered chalk or bentonite. Because some of brick maintenance techniques require the use of chemicals, precautionary care must be taken by wearing protective clothing.
Removing graffiti from brickworks can be easily done with a variety of safe products. These can be bought from any local hardware store.