Brick homes are known for their timeless beauty and durability, but they still need regular care to stay in great condition. Dirt, mold, weather stains, and salt buildup can take a toll on your brick exterior over time.
Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your brick home looking clean and well-maintained year-round. In this guide, we’ll walk you through safe and effective tips on how to clean a brick house, prevent damage, and boost curb appeal.
Understanding Your Brick Type
Before diving into scrubbing and rinsing, it’s essential to know what kind of brick you’re working with. Not all bricks are created equal—and treating them the same can lead to damage, discoloration, or wasted effort.
Painted bricks often require gentle care. Harsh pressure washing or abrasive cleaners can chip or strip away paint, leaving your exterior looking patchy. For these, soft washing with mild detergent is best, followed by a low-pressure rinse.
Unpainted bricks are the most common on traditional homes. These bricks are more durable but still need caution. While pressure washing may be safe in moderation, using too much force can erode the mortar or push water into the wall, leading to long-term damage. A stiff-bristled brush and a water-based cleaner often do the trick.
Sealed bricks have a protective coating that repels moisture and stains. These are typically easier to clean, but it’s important to avoid acidic cleaners that might break down the sealant. A neutral pH solution and soft wash method are ideal.
Then there’s historic brick, often found on older or heritage homes. These bricks can be more porous and fragile due to age. They should never be pressure washed. Cleaning historic brick requires specialized products and a gentle hand—often best left to professionals to avoid irreversible damage.
Knowing your brick type helps you choose the right tools, avoid costly repairs, and maintain the beauty of your home for years to come. A quick inspection or consultation with a brick professional can save you time and protect your investment. Always start with the gentlest method, and test a small area before going all in.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Brick Exteriors
Cleaning your brick home may seem like a big task, but with the right approach, you can restore its charm without damaging the surface. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle the process safely and effectively.
1. Preparation Stage
Before grabbing a brush or hose, take a few moments to inspect your brickwork thoroughly. Look for cracks, loose mortar, mold, or efflorescence (a white, powdery residue caused by salt deposits). If you spot serious damage, you may want to consult a professional before cleaning, as aggressive scrubbing or water pressure could make things worse.
Next, protect your surroundings. Cover nearby landscaping with plastic sheets or tarps to shield plants from cleaning solutions. Use painter’s tape or plastic film to cover windows, doors, light fixtures, and electrical outlets. This ensures cleaning agents don’t accidentally damage or discolor surfaces.
2. Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution
Choosing the right cleaner is crucial and depends on both the type of dirt and the brick finish.
If you’re environmentally conscious or dealing with light grime, eco-friendly DIY mixes can work wonders. A simple solution of equal parts white vinegar and water is great for general cleaning. For tougher stains, mix baking soda and water into a paste, apply it to the area, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub gently.
Chemical cleaners like trisodium phosphate (TSP) or specialized brick cleaning solutions may be needed for more stubborn grime or mildew. Always read the label and wear gloves and eye protection. Test the solution on a small, hidden spot first to ensure it won’t damage the brick.
3. Application Techniques
You have two main options for cleaning: hand scrubbing or power washing.
Scrubbing by hand is the safest and most controlled method. Use a soft-bristled brush and work in small sections, applying your chosen cleaner and scrubbing in circular motions. Avoid wire brushes—they can damage the brick surface and wear down mortar joints.
Power washing can be effective, but it must be done carefully. Use a low-pressure setting (500–1000 psi) and a wide spray nozzle. Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wall and spray at a downward angle to avoid forcing water behind the bricks. Power washing is not recommended for painted or older, fragile bricks.
After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with clean water. If using a cleaner, make sure all residue is removed to prevent discoloration. Let the brick air-dry completely, ideally on a sunny day.
4. Dealing With Tough Stains
Some stains require a bit more muscle and the right products:
- Mold and mildew: Use a solution of water and vinegar, or a mold-killing brick cleaner. Avoid bleach unless it’s heavily diluted, as it can discolor brick.
- Moss: Gently scrape off larger clumps, then scrub with a vinegar solution. You may need to repeat the process if it’s deeply rooted.
- Soot or smoke stains (especially on chimneys): Use a degreasing cleaner or trisodium phosphate. Apply with a soft brush and rinse well.
- Paint splatters: For fresh paint, gently wipe with a damp rag. For dried spots, try a citrus-based paint remover or a specialized masonry paint stripper—avoid using metal tools or harsh abrasives.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Brick
Cleaning a brick exterior can breathe new life into your home’s appearance, but doing it the wrong way can cause lasting damage. Here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make—and how to avoid them.
1. Using High-Pressure Washers Incorrectly
While pressure washing can be effective, using a setting that’s too strong or standing too close can erode the mortar joints and chip the bricks. Always use a low-pressure setting (500–1000 psi) and spray at a downward angle to avoid forcing water behind the brickwork.
2. Choosing Harsh or Incompatible Cleaners
Not all cleaning products are safe for brick. Acidic or abrasive cleaners—like muriatic acid or bleach—can stain, weaken, or strip away protective coatings, especially on painted or sealed brick. Always read the label, test a small patch first, and opt for mild, brick-safe solutions when possible.
3. Ignoring Pre-Cleaning Inspections
It’s risky to clean without inspecting your brick walls first. Cracks, crumbling mortar, or signs of efflorescence need attention before washing. Cleaning over damaged areas can make the problem worse or allow moisture to seep in.
4. Using Metal Brushes or Tools
Scrubbing brick with wire brushes or metal tools can leave scratches or rust stains and even weaken the surface. Stick to soft or medium-bristle brushes designed for masonry.
5. Skipping Rinse and Dry Steps
Failing to thoroughly rinse off cleaners can leave behind a film that dulls the brick or causes future staining. Let the brick dry completely to avoid mold growth, especially in humid areas.
Seasonal and Preventive Maintenance Tips
A well-maintained brick home can last for decades, even centuries—but only if you take care of it properly. Brick may be a durable, low-maintenance material, but it’s not immune to the elements. Adopting a seasonal and preventive maintenance routine helps preserve both the beauty and integrity of your home’s exterior. Here’s how to do it right, all year long.
Spring and Fall
Spring and fall are the most ideal times to clean brick surfaces. These seasons offer mild temperatures and lower humidity levels, making them perfect for washing and drying.
In the spring, focus on removing winter grime—like dirt, salt deposits, and mold that may have developed from damp conditions. Spring cleaning also helps you spot and address any damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles during winter.
In the fall, clean off summer buildup such as dust, pollen, and algae, especially after the rainy season. A clean brick wall going into winter reduces the risk of mold growth and water retention.
Avoid cleaning during very hot or very cold weather, as extreme temperatures can cause the brick or cleaning agents to react poorly or dry unevenly.
Inspect Regularly for Damage
After storms, heavy rainfall, or temperature extremes, take time to walk around your house and inspect the brickwork. Look for:
- Cracks in the bricks or mortar
- Efflorescence (white, chalky residue)
- Bulging or bowed bricks
- Areas where water may pool
Early detection of these issues prevents bigger structural or moisture problems down the road. If you see crumbling mortar, it may be time for repointing—a process where old mortar is removed and replaced.
Seal When Necessary
Not all brick homes need to be sealed, but if your bricks are especially porous or your area experiences a lot of rain, sealing can help. A good masonry sealant protects against moisture, staining, and mold growth. However, it’s essential to use a breathable sealant—one that allows trapped moisture to escape. Otherwise, moisture can get locked in, leading to spalling (brick flaking or cracking).
As a general rule, reseal brick exteriors every 3 to 5 years, or as advised by your contractor or product manufacturer.
Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
One of the most overlooked causes of brick damage is overflowing or clogged gutters. When water spills down the brick surface, it can cause streaking, mold, and erosion of mortar. Ensure gutters are cleaned out at least twice a year and that downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Trim Back Vegetation
Climbing plants like ivy may look charming but can trap moisture and degrade both brick and mortar. Bushes and trees should also be trimmed back to prevent constant brushing or root damage near the foundation.
Final Tip
To keep your brick home in top shape, create a seasonal maintenance checklist. Schedule tasks like inspections, cleaning, sealing, and trimming vegetation. Document any damage or repairs needed, and take photos for future reference.
Staying organized helps you catch issues early, plan ahead, and avoid expensive repairs down the line. Preventive care is simple but powerful—a few hours each season can add years to the life and beauty of your brick exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean a brick house?
Generally, clean your brick exterior once a year, ideally in spring or fall, or more often if it’s in a humid or dusty area.
Is power washing safe for all brick types?
No. Power washing should be avoided on older or painted bricks, and always used on low pressure to prevent damage.
What’s the best way to remove efflorescence?
Use a dry brush first, then rinse with water. For stubborn spots, apply a vinegar-water solution or a masonry-safe cleaner.
Can I paint over dirty brick?
No. Always clean and dry brick thoroughly before painting to ensure proper adhesion.