Does your brick house look like it’s lost its luster?
Over time, dirt, grime, and even mold can build up, leaving your once beautiful facade looking dull and dingy.
But fear not! There’s an ultimate solution lurking around the corner – Power Washing.
This technique can be a game-changer for your brick home, restoring its natural beauty and boosting curb appeal.
But before you grab the nearest power washer and blast away, it’s crucial to understand that there’s a right and wrong way to approach this cleaning method. Used incorrectly, power washing can wreak havoc on your brickwork.
This blog will guide safe and effective exterior building cleaning, specifically focusing on power washing brick houses. We’ll explore the benefits of a clean brick house, delve into the dangers of using too much pressure, and equip you with the knowledge to tackle the job yourself or know when to call in a professional.
Why Power Wash a Brick House?
Beyond the undeniable satisfaction of seeing years of grime disappear, power washing your brick house offers a multitude of benefits:
Deep Cleaning Power
Over time, your brick facade becomes a battleground for dirt, grime, and organic growth like mold and mildew. When compared with Commercial Pressure Washing, good power washing acts like a knight in shining armor, removing these unwanted invaders.
Eliminating mold and mildew will make your house look cleaner and contribute to a healthier living environment, especially for those with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
Restored Beauty
Brick is a beautiful building material, but years of exposure to the elements can dull its natural color and texture.
Power washing gently removes the grime layer, revealing the brick’s original richness. This can be particularly noticeable for older homes where the natural beauty of the brick may have been obscured for years.
Curb Appeal Boost
Let’s face it: first impressions matter. A clean and well-maintained exterior is a significant factor in curb appeal. Power washing your brick house can dramatically improve its visual impact, making it the envy of the block and potentially increasing its value. Think of it as a facelift without the hefty price tag for your home.
However, it’s important to remember that power washing isn’t a magic solution. While it will tackle dirt and grime, it won’t fix major structural problems like cracks or damaged mortar.
Consulting a professional is recommended if you suspect your brickwork has more serious issues.
The Dangers of Improper Power Washing
Brick may seem tough, but it has a hidden vulnerability: porosity. Tiny holes run throughout the brick, allowing water to penetrate.
While some water absorption is normal, power washing with excessive pressure turns this advantage into a liability.
Here’s why using too much force can be disastrous:
Shattered Bricks
Imagine treating your brick wall like a punching bag. High pressure can literally chip and crack the bricks themselves, leaving unsightly blemishes and potentially compromising the structural integrity of your wall.
Mortar Mayhem
The mortar, the glue holding your bricks together, isn’t as strong as the bricks themselves. Forceful power washing can erode and loosen the mortar, creating gaps and allowing water to seep into the wall cavity. This can lead to further damage from moisture and freezing temperatures.
Water Woes
Remember those tiny pores in the brick? Excessive pressure forces water deeper into these pores, potentially saturating the wall. This trapped moisture can lead to mold growth, efflorescence (a white, chalky residue), and even structural problems if left unchecked.
Safely Power Washing Your Brick House
Are you worried about what could go wrong with power washing? Don’t worry! Here’s what you need to become a safe and successful brick cleaner.
Tools of the Trade
Pressure Washer: Not all pressure washers are created equal. For your brick house, ditch the brute force and choose a warrior with finesse. Look for a washer with a low-pressure setting, ideally under 800 PSI. This ensures you remove grime without harming the brick.
Brick-Friendly Cleaning Solution: Regular detergents might be tough on kitchen grease, but they can be harsh on your brickwork. Invest in a cleaning solution specifically designed for brick. These solutions are formulated to tackle dirt and grime while being gentle on the delicate pores of the brick.
Mastering the Technique
Divide and Conquer: Don’t tackle the entire house simultaneously. Work in manageable sections, focusing on a small area at a time. This allows for better control and ensures you don’t miss any spots.
Fan Power: Ditch the concentrated jet nozzle and use a fan spray nozzle that distributes the water pressure evenly. Think of it as a gentle shower for your bricks, not a fire hose blast. Plus, it is perfect for window cleaning, too. So, what do you say? Two birds with one arrow!
Respect the Distance: Just like a skilled swordsman maintains a safe distance during a duel, you, too, need to keep your distance from the wall. The recommended distance varies depending on the pressure setting, so consult your pressure washer’s manual for specific guidelines.
The Art of Rinsing: Don’t neglect the final rinse once you’ve tackled the grime. Thorough rinsing removes any cleaning solution residue that could attract dirt or leave streaks. Remember, a clean rinse is the finishing touch to a successful power-washing mission!
When Should You Call the Power Washing Professionals?
While you might feel like a full-time brick cleaner now, there are times when calling in reinforcements is the smartest move.
Tip: If you’re a homeowner in New Jersey looking to restore the beauty of your brick house, residential power washing service in NJ is a fantastic option.
Here’s when to consider bringing in the experts:
Too Much Work
If your brick house is fighting a mountain of grime, extensive cleaning, mold remediation, or graffiti removal might be best left to the professionals. They have the experience and equipment to handle large-scale projects efficiently and safely.
The Fragile Fighter
Older or fragile brick requires extra care. If your brickwork shows signs of age or damage, a Professional House Washing Service can assess the situation and use specialized techniques to clean safely without causing further harm.
Not So Confident Commander
Maybe you’re a DIY enthusiast, but wielding a power washer can feel intimidating. If you lack the experience or confidence to tackle the job yourself, there’s no shame in calling in a professional. They’ll ensure your brick house gets a sparkling clean makeover without any risk of damage.
Wrapping Up
So, can you power wash your brick house? The answer is a resounding yes, with the right approach! Safe power washing offers many benefits: a clean and beautiful exterior, a healthier environment, and a boost in curb appeal.
Remember, the key to success lies in proper technique. Choose the right equipment, use a low-pressure setting, and follow our warrior’s guide for safe and effective cleaning.
Ready to unleash the hidden beauty of your brick house? Grab your low-pressure weapon, suit up with the proper cleaning solution, and conquer the grime!
Not ready to DIY? No worries! Many reputable Pressure Washing Service in NJ can handle the job for you. They’ll ensure your brick house emerges victorious, sparkling clean, and ready to turn heads on your block.
FAQs
Q1: Is power washing safe for brick houses?
A1: Power washing can be safe for brick houses, but proper technique is crucial. Using a low-pressure setting (under 800 PSI) and avoiding high-impact nozzles will help prevent damage to the bricks and mortar.
Q2: What are the benefits of power washing a brick house?
A2: Power washing offers several benefits:
Deep Cleaning: It removes dirt, grime, mold, and mildew, leaving your brick house looking fresh and rejuvenated.
Curb Appeal Boost: A clean exterior significantly enhances your home’s visual appeal, potentially increasing its value.
Healthier Environment: Power washing helps reduce allergens like mold and mildew, promoting a healthier living space.
Q3: Are there any risks associated with power washing brick surfaces?
A3: Yes, there are risks if not done properly. Here’s what to watch out for:
Brick Damage: High pressure can crack or chip the bricks themselves.
Mortar Mayhem: Forceful power washing can loosen the mortar between the bricks, creating gaps and allowing water infiltration.
Moisture Issues: Excessive water pressure can force water deeper into the brick, potentially leading to mold growth or structural problems.
Q4: How often should a brick house be power washed?
A4: The frequency depends on the severity of dirt buildup and weather conditions. In general, every few years is a good rule of thumb. You might need it more often if your house is exposed to heavy pollution or extreme weather.
Q5: What type of pressure washer is suitable for cleaning a brick house?
A5: Look for a low-pressure washer (under 800 PSI) with a fan spray nozzle. This will ensure even cleaning without harming the delicate brick surface.