The exterior of a brick house can exude an appeal of timeless elegance. However, like any other surface, brick and mortar can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains over time. But fret not, a thorough cleaning can restore the splendor of your brick house and leave it looking like new.
Pressure washing is a great way to get years of grime off of your bricks, and best of all, you can get it in a relatively short amount of time. Here’s what you need to do to pressure wash your home and get it looking better than ever.
Prepare Your Brick House
To begin with, it’s essential to inspect the brick walls for any cracks or damage. This step is crucial as using a pressure washer without fixing the cracks can lead to water seepage, causing further damage to the bricks. Minor cracks can be easily fixed with some elbow grease and a bit of cement. However, if the damage is extensive, you might want to consider consulting a professional.
Prep the Surrounding Area
Before starting the cleaning process, it’s important to prepare the surrounding area. Cover windows with plastic sheeting to protect them from the pressurized water. Similarly, electrical outlets should be covered to prevent water from causing a short circuit. Outdoor plants, flowers, and shrubs around the brick walls should also be shielded to prevent any damage from the detergent or the pressure washer.
Gathering Your Tools
Pressure washing a brick house can be an arduous task, but having the right tools can make the job easier. Here’s a list of items you need to get started:
- Pressure Machine: The main tool for this process is the pressure washer. It uses high-pressure water to remove dirt and grime from surfaces.
- Bristled Brush: A bristled brush will come in handy for removing stubborn stains on the bricks.
- Scrub Brush: This type of brush is perfect for cleaning the mortar between the bricks.
- Wire Brush: Use a wire brush to remove any loose debris or paint flakes before pressure washing.
How to Clean Your Brick House Effectively
Now, let’s get down to business: cleaning your brick. The best way to start is by removing dirt and debris using a garden hose. This step will make the pressure washing more effective. Once the loose dirt is off, it’s time to get your pressure washer ready. For this task, you can use a simple mixture of dish soap and warm water as a detergent. Make sure to dilute the dish soap properly as a highly concentrated solution can damage the brick and mortar.
Apply the detergent using the pressure washer, starting from the bottom and moving upward. Allow the detergent to sit for 5-10 minutes, but ensure it doesn’t dry on the brick as it can leave behind residue and stains.
Cleaning Top to Bottom: An Effective Strategy for a Spotless Outcome
After the detergent has settled, it’s time to rinse it off and reveal the clean and rejuvenated surface of your brick house. Unlike the initial round of cleaning, you’ll want to start rinsing from the top of the wall and gradually move towards the bottom. This ‘top to bottom’ strategy is highly effective as it ensures the dirty water and loosened grime flow downwards, preventing re-soiling of the already cleaned parts.
Remember to maintain a consistent distance between the pressure washer and the brick wall to avoid uneven cleaning. Also, try not to focus too long on one spot as it might erode the brick. Keep moving in a smooth, controlled manner, ensuring each brick gets an equal amount of attention.
This top-to-bottom approach not only results in a thoroughly clean brick exterior but also helps in identifying any spots missed during the initial application of detergent. By following this strategy, you can be confident that your brick house will look as good as new, no matter how stubborn the stains or grime are.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains: The Secret to a Pristine Brick Exterior
The next step involves a bit of elbow grease. For any stubborn stains, use a scrub brush or a wire brush. These tools can help you dislodge the grime that the pressure washer might not be able to remove. Be gentle to avoid damaging the brick and mortar.
Once you’ve tackled the stubborn stains, it’s time to rinse using the pressure washer. Start from the top and work your way down to ensure that all the loosened dirt and detergent wash away. In some cases, you might have to repeat the process for heavy stains or areas with a lot of dirt build-up.
Expert Tips
Pressure washing is a fantastic solution for exterior brick cleaning. However, remember to be gentle and patient while doing it. Brick is a durable material, but it can get damaged with rough handling. Always begin with a lower pressure setting and gradually increase it if needed. Avoid using a high-pressure setting as it can damage the brick-and-mortar.
Post-Cleaning Maintenance: Ensuring Lasting Shine for Your Brick House
After a thorough cleaning, it’s essential to maintain your brick house’s exterior to minimize future cleaning efforts and prolong its pristine appearance. Regularly sweep the surfaces and rinse with a garden hose to get rid of dust, dirt, and other debris. Avoid the accumulation of leaves or dampness against your brick wall as these can cause stains over time.
For an extra layer of protection, consider applying a sealant to your bricks. This can prevent water absorption, protect against weather damage, and help maintain the vibrant color of the brick. Consult with a professional for the best type of sealant for your house. Lastly, a regular inspection of the brickwork will help you spot any damage or issues early, saving you from costly repairs in the future. A clean and well-maintained brick house not only looks beautiful but also continues to stand strong for years to come.
Cleaning the exterior of a brick house may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively and efficiently. Remember to prepare the surrounding area, gather all necessary tools, and follow a top-to-bottom cleaning approach for best results. Be gentle while handling your pressure washer and any scrubbing tools to avoid damaging the brick and mortar. Once you’ve mastered using a pressure washer, you’ll be able to keep your home beautiful and clean from here on out.
