How to Clean Outdoor Brick

Cleaning outdoor brick can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and products, you can have your outdoor brick looking bright, clean and restored in no time. Whether you have brick walls, patios, walkways or other brick surfaces outside your home, it’s important to keep them looking their best not just for aesthetics, but also to protect the brick from damage over time. We’ll walk you through the best practices for getting your outdoor brick shining.

Why Regular Cleaning of Outdoor Brick is Important

There are a few key reasons why you should develop a regular cleaning routine for outdoor brick:

Prevents buildup of dirt and grime – Outdoor brick is exposed to the elements year-round. Over time, dirt, mold, mildew and algae can build up on the surface. If left unaddressed, this buildup can become difficult to remove. Regular cleaning keeps the grime from accumulating.
Maintains aesthetic appeal – No one wants dingy, dirty brick marring the outside of their home. Keeping the brick clean improves curb appeal and creates an inviting space.
Extends lifespan – Dirt, debris and moisture that are allowed to sit on outdoor brick can actually start to break down the integrity of the material over time, shortening its lifespan. Regular cleaning protects your investment.
Improves safety – When dirt and moss build up on brick walkways and patios, it can create a slip hazard. Cleaning removes this slippery surface and improves traction for safer walking.

Investing a little time in a regular cleaning routine for outdoor brick pays off through improving aesthetics, maintaining safety and extending the life of your hardscape.

How Often to Clean Outdoor Brick

The frequency for cleaning outdoor brick depends on a few factors:

Type of brick – More porous bricks will need more frequent cleaning than dense, non-porous bricks.
Exposure to elements – Brick in a covered area will need less frequent cleaning than brick fully exposed to the weather.
Amount of use – High traffic areas like walkways and patios will need more frequent cleaning than an accent wall that sees little activity.
Landscaping and foliage – Outdoor brick areas surrounded by trees and plants will need more cleaning to counteract debris, dripping sap and increased moisture.
Local climate – Dry climates can allow less frequent cleaning while damp climates will promote growth of grime, moss and plants.

While these factors mean cleaning frequency should be tailored to your specific needs, a good rule of thumb is to clean outdoor brick at least two times per year. High traffic areas may need cleaning as often as once per month.

Establishing a consistent cleaning routine based on the needs of your brick will help prevent major buildup that becomes unmanageable.

What You’ll Need to Clean Outdoor Brick

Collecting the right cleaning supplies makes tackling outdoor brick simple. Here are the most important items to have on hand:

Garden hose – This is crucial for rinsing away dirt and debris. Use a nozzle or pressure attachment if possible.
Stiff bristle brush – Choose a brush made for brick with thick, stiff bristles. This is key for scrubbing.
Bucket – Use one or two buckets to hold cleaning solutions.
Cleaner – Pick a natural cleaner made for outdoor brick and masonry. See cleaner recommendations later in article.
Scrub pads – Coarse pads help give extra scrubbing power for stubborn grime.
Gloves – Protect your hands with waterproof gloves during cleaning.
Eye protection – Goggles keep cleaning solutions from getting in your eyes.
Broom – Use a broom to sweep loose dirt before washing.
Respirator mask – When power washing, protect yourself from inhaling particles.

With these basic supplies gathered, you’ll be ready to spruce up your outdoor brick.

When you’re ready to tackle the cleaning, follow this systematic process to get your outdoor brick looking fresh and renewed:

Step 1: Sweep

Use a stiff broom to sweep the entire area and remove any loose dirt, leaves, stones or other debris. This prevents you from just washing the debris into the brick pores. Sweep every nook and cranny thoroughly.

Step 2: Wet Surface

Use a garden hose to wet down the entire brick surface. If using a pressure washer, avoid pointing directly at brick. The pressure can damage porous brick.

Step 3: Apply Cleaner

Apply your chosen outdoor brick cleaner liberally over the wet surface. Use a bucket and stiff scrub brush to work the solution over the brick. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

Vigorously scrub all treated areas with the stiff brush. Apply elbow grease to dislodge grime in crevices. Rinse thoroughly with garden hose. Repeat cleaner application if needed for stubborn areas.

Step 5: Inspect and Spot Treat

Inspect for any remaining moss, algae or dark grease stains. Use a small quantity of cleaner and a scrub pad to spot treat these areas. Rinse again.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the entire area to remove all cleaner residue which can damage brick. Use a towel to wipe up excess moisture. Allow to fully dry in sunlight.

Follow these steps at least twice per year to keep your outdoor brick looking clean and renewed.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Brick Cleaner

Here are some of the best cleaning solutions for outdoor brick:

White vinegar – This household staple cuts through grime. Create a diluted vinegar solution for an eco-friendly option.
Liquid dish soap – Another gentle cleaner that still tackles most dirt buildup effectively.
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) – Often found in paint departments, TSP dissolves grime without harming masonry.
Oxygen bleach – Removes mold and mildew stains without the harshness of chlorine bleach.
Hydrogen peroxide – Breaks down organic matter like algae and moss growth.
Ammonia – Stronger cleaner good for very dirty and neglected outdoor brick.
Phosphoric acid – Sold as concrete or masonry cleaner, phosphoric acid clears stubborn stains.
Sulfamic or oxalic acid – Used specifically for efflorescence, a white mineral deposit that can form on brick.

Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners which can strip the protective surface of the brick over time. Test any new cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Pressure Washing Brick

For brick surfaces that are very dirty, you can also use a pressure washer for cleaning. Pressure washing applies high-pressure water to blast off grime.

Here are some key tips if pressure washing outdoor brick:

Only use medium pressure, maximum 1500 PSI. Too much pressure damages brick.
Keep nozzle 12-18 inches away from brick and avoid aiming directly at the brick.
Use broad back-and-forth motions across brick for even coverage.
Let cleaner soak 5 minutes before pressure washing off.
Wear proper safety equipment like goggles, gloves and a respirator mask.

Take precautions when pressure washing, and this method can quickly restore a heavily soiled brick surface.

Cleaning Indoor vs. Outdoor Brick

Cleaning brick inside the home requires a much different approach than outdoor brick surfaces. Here is a quick comparison:

The exterior brick faces more stubborn grime, moisture and potential for damage, so stronger cleaners and scrubbing is necessary. But take care not to damage the brick when cleaning outdoors.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Outdoor Brick

Once you’ve got your outdoor brick pristine, follow these maintenance tips to keep it looking great:

Sweep leaves and debris frequently to prevent buildup
Follow a regular cleaning schedule based on your specific needs
Spot clean grimy areas soon after they appear
Address any moisture issues, like downspout leaks, immediately
Reapply brick sealers every 1-2 years
Limit plantings directly around brick
Gently remove any weed growth while small

An ounce of prevention through proactive maintenance keeps outdoor brick cleaner between deep cleanings. Developing good brick care habits prolongs the life of your hardscape.

Common Questions About Cleaning Brick

Is it okay to use bleach on outdoor brick?

Bleach is very harsh and can react with the minerals in brick and erode the surface over time. It’s best avoided in favor of gentler, outdoor-safe cleaners.

What causes white deposits on brick?

White mineral deposits, called efflorescence, form when water draws soluble salts from inside the brick to the surface. Acid-based cleaners specifically remove this efflorescence.

How can I remove rust stains from brick?

For superficial rust stains, try lemon juice or oxalic acid solutions. Severe rust may need a poultice application – mix a pH neutral cleaner with an absorptive powder, apply to stain and wrap in plastic to draw out the rust.

Why is there green growth on my outdoor brick?

Green growth is likely algae feeding off moisture and dirt in shaded, damp areas of brick. Use an oxygen bleach cleaner and scrub brush to remove it, then address any drainage issues.

What’s the white stuff on my brick?

White residue is likely efflorescence, which is mineral salts pulled from inside the brick to the surface. It can be cleared with an acidic cleaner.

How do I get rid of mildew on outdoor brick?

Mildew thrives in damp, shady areas. Use a maximum strength oxygen bleach solution and scrub vigorously to kill and remove the mildew staining from brick.

Conclusion

Cleaning outdoor brick periodically is essential to maintaining the beauty, safety and lifespan of your hardscape. With the right tools and cleaners, you can easily blast away grime buildup from years of exposure to revive your outdoor brick. Just remember to always use outdoor brick-safe cleaners and avoid excessive pressure when cleaning.

Developing a regular maintenance plan based on the needs of your specific brick will reduce major buildup and deterioration. Your cleaned outdoor brick will bring you pride and enhance the aesthetics of your home for years to come with just periodic attention. For heavily soiled brick, call in a professional pressure washer service for the best results. With a little elbow grease and the right cleaners, you can keep your outdoor brick looking fresh, clean and vibrant.