Exposure brick walls are popular home designs because they bring rustic flavor and enduring style.
The combination of elegance and functionality comes with responsibilities for their upkeep and cleaning.
Proper care for brick walls remains essential because it safeguards their appearance and durability.
This article introduces proper maintenance procedures for exposed brick walls to make them look great for more years to come.
The Need for Appropriate Care of Exposed Brick Walls
Exposed brick surfaces react negatively to harsh chemicals and excessive moisture.
A routine cleaning stops dust and dirt accumulation and maintains a wall free from mold and mildew growth.
The proper care of your brick walls safeguards your structure from deterioration, which would force you to spend money on costly repairs.
The longevity and unique beauty of your home walls depend on regular maintenance.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Exposed Brick Walls
Step 1: Dusting Your Exposed Brick Wall
The first necessary step for any cleaning procedure is performing a dusting session.
A soft-bristle brush tool with either a microfiber broom or a dusting brush should carefully brush away loose dust and dirt from the surface.
Brush attachments on vacuum cleaners collect particles without harming the wall structure.
Regular dusting helps prevent dirt from settling into the brick’s crevices, where it becomes difficult to clean over time.
Step 2: Inspect for Damage
Take a moment to examine your brick wall for any cracks and damage before starting your deeper cleaning process.
You should repair all damaged areas before cleaning because water or cleaning solutions could worsen existing damage when left unattended.
Apply masonry patching compound into small cracks to stop further deterioration from occurring.
Step 3: Test a Small Area First
When working with exposed brick surfaces you need to apply cleaning solutions to an inconspicuous area before proceeding with cleaning.
The cleaning agents could potentially damage or discolor specific brick finishes because different finishes exhibit varying sensitivity levels.
Test your cleaning solution on a hidden wall section to check for damage before cleaning the whole thing.
Step 4: Wash with Mild Soap Solution
The majority of brick walls require only a soap solution for cleaning purposes.
Mix a tiny portion of dish soap or mild laundry detergent with warm water inside a bucket.
A dampened sponge or cloth wrung to remove excess moisture should be used to scrub the brick surface gently.
You should avoid soaking the wall because excessive moisture can penetrate the porous surface and create mold or mildew growth.
Step 5: Scrub Hard-to-Remove Stains Using a Brush with Stiff Bristles
A stiff-bristled brush should be used to clean tough stains, and grime stuck in the brick texture.
Use the brush to clean the surface in a circular motion to avoid damaging the brick structure. The cleaning pressure must be moderate to prevent damaging the brick surface through scratches or erosion.
Always make sure to clean a small test area first.
Step 6: Rinse with Clean Water
Cleaning your exposed brick wall requires thoroughly rinse with fresh water to eliminate soap residue after scrubbing.
Wipe down the wall completely with a sponge or cloth dampened with water.
The final step of cleaning eliminates every trace of the solution from the wall to prevent future dirt accumulation.
Step 7: Dry the Wall
After cleaning your exposed brick wall, you need to let it dry naturally.
Avoid using a towel for drying the surface because it could deposit fibers.
The brick requires proper drying since trapped moisture inside the brick can result in mold growth or damage to the mortar.
Step 8: Seal the Wall for Protection
Before using any protective coating on your exposed brick wall, it should be both clean and dry.
The protective coat will make future cleanings easier by repelling moisture and dirt.
Find a brick and masonry-specific sealer on your wall since other types may damage its surface.
To achieve optimal results, always apply the product according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Exposed Brick
The process of cleaning exposed brick walls remains straightforward, but specific mistakes will lead to structural damage:
Steer Clear of Harsh Chemicals: Avoid any strong cleaning products as they can damage the surface of the brick and alter its color. You should use only natural and mild cleaners for your brick wall.
Don’t Over-Wet the Surface: Keep the surface dry since excessive moisture can penetrate brick pores to create mold and mildew growth. Never use more water than needed when cleaning.
Never Use Wire Brushes: Steel wool or wire brushes can scratch and damage the brick’s surface. Whether it’s brick or concrete, use a soft-bristle brush instead of wire brushes to protect against abrasions.
Avoid Power Washing: Even though it may seem like a convenient option, it can also remove the mortar and damage the brick. Do not use pressure washes.
Conclusion
Exposure brick is a nice feature for any room, but it does need to be looked after to keep it looking its best.
The eight-step cleaning process presented in this article will help you maintain your brick walls in excellent condition.
Before cleaning any surface, always test new products on a small area using mild cleaning solutions and regularly dusting.
If you take good care of your exposed brick wall, it will remain a charming and characteristic feature of your home for years.
NW Maids provides house cleaning services as your best solution.
Our trained professionals specialize in caring for every surface type, including sensitive exposed brick, which keeps your home perfectly clean.
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