Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Cleaning A Brick Wall

Brick Wall

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The clean, historic look of a brick wall is not a new design trend. Bricks are known to be one of the most ancient building materials around. Their purpose is functional and aesthetic. But how much do you know about caring for these bricks?

While bricks are beloved for their ability to develop a patina over time, they are still susceptible to rust, mold, mildew, stains, and discoloration. There’s a fine line between the regal look of aged brick and the neglected look of decaying brick. 

Taking care of your brick wall is not too complicated. But it does require some planning and forethought. Read on to learn our tips for how to properly care for this valuable part of your home. 

Start with Basic Maintenance 

It’s important to get in the habit of dusting your brick wall on a regular basis. How often you clean the bricks depends on two factors: whether they are outside or inside, and how dirty they get over time. Try to clean your wall about once a month, or whenever you notice dirt and dust accumulating. 

You can use a regular broom to dust the wall from top to bottom. Just make sure that the bristles are not made of wire, as these may damage the bricks.

If your wall is especially high, cobwebs will probably start collecting in the corners. Sweep the broom from side to side until you’ve covered the whole wall. 

The broom should catch dust and loose dirt. You may need to vacuum or sweep the floor afterward. It should only take 5-10 minutes to brush your wall from top to bottom, but it will keep dirt from becoming fixed to the bricks. 

Prep Your Brick Wall for a Deep Clean

If the wall is indoors, remove all picture frames, decorations, and nails or screws. Roll back any rugs and move the furniture away from the wall. Cover the floor and any nearby surfaces with newspaper, plastic, or large towels. 

For an exterior wall, move away any porch furniture or plants that could be damaged by chemicals or too much water. 

Cleaning Your Indoor Brick Wall or Brick Fireplace

Exposed brick is a popular modern accent in homes and apartments. It gives off a warm and stately modern feel. But nothing ruins the trendy aesthetic like dirt, stains, or worse — mold. 

Dusting your wall regularly will help to keep it in top condition. You’ll also want to wash it down with a stronger cleaning solution about once or twice a year. 

Make a paste by mixing together equal amounts of salt and dish soap. Dip a cloth into the mixture, then rub the paste onto the wall. Use a brush with synthetic bristles to scour the paste into the brick. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a fresh, wet rag. 

It’s a good idea to work in small square sections, otherwise the paste will start to drip away. 

Cleaning Your Outdoor Brick Wall

You have more flexibility with cleaning solutions for exterior brick, because you don’t have to worry as much about chemical smells or mess. In addition to brushing your wall, you should spray it down regularly with a garden hose to wash away any dirt and debris. 

If you have a pressure washer, this can be a valuable tool for removing any stubborn clumps. Don’t use a pressure washer if your bricks are starting to crumble, though. 

Even with regular maintenance, mold and stains may build up on your wall. In this case, you’ll need to use chemicals for a deeper clean. Be sure to follow the CDC’s guidelines on dealing with mold. Cover your mouth and wear protective equipment, and call a professional if the mold is out of control. 

Method #1: Vinegar Solution

Start by mixing a cup of white vinegar into a bowl of warm water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle, then lightly spritz the mixture onto any stained areas of the wall. Rub the vinegar solution into the wall with a brush. Avoid brushes with stiff or wire bristles. 

When you’re finished, rinse the wall down with a hose.  

Method #2: Ammonia

Put on a pair of gloves and protect your face with a mask. Mix 1/2 cup of ammonia into a gallon of warm water. Stir the mixture, then use a brush to rub the solution back-and-forth across the wall. 

Try to cover the wall in even strokes, and press hard to get the dirt out of the crevices between each brick. Press hard to get the dirt out of the crevices. When you’re finished, use a hose to spray down the wall. Don’t skip this step, because ammonia can eat into the brick if it is allowed to settle there. Finally, let the wall air dry. 

Note: If your bricks are very old or crumbling, don’t use ammonia or vinegar on them. The chemicals in these products can speed up the aging process. 

Tips for Ongoing Care for Your Brick Wall

For outdoor brick walls, it can be beneficial to spray the bricks with a sealant. Sealants protect against damage that comes from freezing snow or rain, cracks, salt, and excessive UV rays from the sun. Before you apply the sealant, check the weather forecast to make sure there won’t be rain for a few days. Water can mess with the sealer and cause it to be less effective.

It’s possible to use a sealant on indoor brick, too. Just make sure to choose an option that is approved for indoor use. Apply the sealant on a day when you can leave the windows and doors open for ventilation. 

Whether your wall is outside or inside, clean it thoroughly before you spray it with sealant, and use one of the methods above to attack any stains. Otherwise, you run the risk of sealing the dirt and stains right into the wall. 

With these simple tips for care and maintenance, you’ll be able to keep your brick wall in great condition for years to come. 

Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C