Brick washing or brick cleaning is the process of removing debris from a brick substrate. Brick cleaning can be done using several different methods; Steam cleaning, chemical treatment, abrasive blasting, and high-pressure cleaning.
Here are the risks and benefits of cleaning your bricks with available methods. It is our opinion after years of experience that we do not suggest nor recommend high-pressure cleaning and abrasive blasting.
Steam cleaning with chemical treatment
Pros
- Minimally invasive to brick
- Best results
- Cost-effective cleaning
Cons
- Can damage windows, doors flashing, etc if not used correctly
- Must be done by professionals
Only Steam cleaning
Pros
- The most minimally invasive cleaning process
- Will not damage windows, doors flashing, etc if operated properly
Cons
- Slow and costly process
- Potentially poor results?
Abrasive blasting
Pros
- Will clean everything off brick
- Can clean masonry paint
Cons
- Can completely destroy the brick face
- High cost
- High risk
High pressure
Pros
- Most cost-effective
- Can give a good result
- Fast
Cons
- Can completely destroy brick face
- Can cause damage to brick and other objects
Chemical treatment
Pros
- Does not require water or abrasives
- Can be less messy
Cons
- Very slow and pricy process
- Requires trial and error.
Debrief
The only safe and effective way to clean bricks is by using low-pressure steam and chemicals. While other methods may be cheaper, abrasive blasting and high pressure bring a high level of risk. Consult Brickwash.com in Toronto on Instagram @brickwashto for more information on the best method for cleaning your bricks. Brickwash does free brick-cleaning consulting over Instagram so feel free to reach out!!
