Methods
Sandblasting and power washing are quick and easy, but they can cause erosion damage, especially to older brick that is likely to have a softer surface. These power methods should only be used if other methods fail.
Chemical solutions can cause surface failures and can change the color of older bricks. Avoid certain liquid chemical solutions such as acid and even low-pressure washing, which can force moisture through the porous brick surface and cause damage.
The safest but most time-consuming method is to use strips of fabric applied over paint removal paste. The fabric should be soft and porous enough to absorb gel or paste paint remover.
Test A Small Area
Before stripping the paint from the brick, you should first test the procedure on a small area that is not as likely be seen. From this test you should be able determine several things:
* The paint removal system's effectiveness
* The condition of the bricks you are stripping
* The safety of the chemicals used to strip the paint
* The amount of work it will take to remove the paint, including any brushing necessary to remove paint and chemical residue
Wait for the test paint to soften and adhere to the fabric that is covering it. You can then peel off the fabric, and the softened paint will come away without any potentially harmful lead paint chips.
Most likely, some paint and chemicals will remain on the brick and will need to be cleaned off after the initial process. The remaining paint can then be removed by scrubbing with a stiff bristle brush and rinsing with clean water. Avoid using a wire brush, which can damage brick. When using water to rinse, avoid using pressure, which can cause damage or force moisture into soft bricks.
If there are multiple layers of paint, you might need to repeat this process, including scrubbing and rinsing.
Your paint removal project should be completed months ahead of freezing weather to allow moisture to migrate out of the bricks and mortar.
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Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted to our
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