Cleaning mortar from bricks

[dimitrisbizakis]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Other than something breathable like Thoroseal, using paint or lacquer to masonry is a death sentence. Never apply anything over masonry that keeps it from breathing.

I refer to the outer arc face only, the other part will be unpainted.

[dimitrisbizakis]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Dim,

He said And if you use it don't use a metal brush..... muratic acid doesn't play well with metal...

Les i wasn't plan to use muratic acid, just a wire brush and water.

[stonecutter]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

After cleaning with a wire brush is there any lacquer or paint that I could paint te bricks?

Other than something breathable like Thoroseal, using paint or lacquer to masonry is a death sentence. Never apply anything over masonry that keeps it from breathing.

[Les]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Dim,

He said And if you use it don't use a metal brush..... muratic acid doesn't play well with metal...

[david s]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Just sponge water over it.

[dimitrisbizakis]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

After cleaning with a wire brush is there any lacquer or paint that I could paint te bricks?
I don't feel confortably with the aid thing and he food.....

[brickie in oz]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

And if you use it dont use a metal brush.....

[Tscarborough]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

F'ing around with muriatic is not something I recommend to anyone, it is a 30 percent solution of hydrochloric acid and is a serious industrial chemical. If you insist on using it, hose down the entire area until fully saturated, dilute to a reasonable mix (10 to 15 to one) by pouring the acid into the water and wear appropriate safety equipment.

There are available proprietary cleaners that are a little safer, Sure Klean 600 detergent is one, although it is still a dangerous product. If you are not able to keep from making a mess while laying your masonry, then you can use industrial strength vinegar to remove minor amounts of mortar.

[stonecutter]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Also you will need to pre-wet your brick before applying acid.

[stonecutter]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

I thought the ratio is 10% acid to water?

It depends on the type of brick, but that is pretty close. But typical cleaning should be around 1:6 - 1:10.

[Tscarborough]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

10 to 15 parts water to 1 part acid unless you want to burn out your eyes, your lungs and the brick.

[brickie in oz]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

If it is fairly new mortar use a 50/50 solution of muratic acid and water.

I thought the ratio is 10% acid to water?

[Circe]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

It's outside so I will give the acid a try thank you

[stonecutter]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

Inside you can use a wire wheel attachment for a drill or angle grinder. Use one made of brass.

EDIT: for dry cleaning brick inside the dome.

[Les]

Re: Cleaning mortar from bricks

If it is fairly new mortar use a 50/50 solution of muratic acid and water. Wear gloves and eye protection. I use a brush and have the hose handy to rinse. Just occurred to me inside or out? The hose for rinsing may be an issue...