Painting brick, block, stone, or mortar is rarely a good idea for brick staining contractors. While paint certainly changes the color of masonry, many compromises are made in terms of structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and durability.
Paint creates an impenetrable surface membrane that coats exterior masonry and prohibits moisture, vapors, and humidity from escaping—typically resulting in the color blistering and peeling within just a few years.
Brick, block, and stone have naturally porous surfaces that need to remain permeable. Our exclusive Stayntech® masonry stains are the first choice for brick staining contractors, as it’s absorbed by masonry, resulting in a finish that looks natural as they maintain original color variations and varying surface textures.
Does Brick Staining Last?
According to the best brick staining contractors, the lifespan of brick stain is typically many decades. That’s a long time and underscores the importance of getting the stain right. It will be there for a long time, so make sure you get it right.
Masonry is widely recognized as an exceptionally durable and low-maintenance building material.
However, it does require some cleaning from time to time. Knowing how to clean exterior brick and interior brick will help your brick last as long as possible and look its absolute best at the same time.
How To Clean Interior and Exterior Brick
From exterior brick siding to an interior fireplace, here are a few tips from brick staining contractors on how to clean brick properly and safely.
Moss and Mold
It’s not unusual for moss or mold to grow on exterior masonry, especially when the area is shaded for most of the day. But it’s an easy fix.
Mix a cup of bleach with one gallon of warm water and apply it on the wall with a natural or nylon-bristled scrub brush.
We recommend not using a wire brush as it will most likely leave tiny bits of metal on the masonry that will rust over time.
Be careful to use very light pressure, so you don’t damage the masonry.
It would help if you also were sure not to let the bleach and water mixture spill or drip on any plants or foliage.
Efflorescence
Knowing how to remove efflorescence is valuable for homeowners with interior and exterior masonry.
Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit of salts found when moisture is present within or on brick, block, stone, or concrete.
As water passes through masonry and eventually evaporates, salts are dissolved and left behind on the surface.
Efflorescence has a white or greyish tint and typically appears as a powdery substance. While it’s a common sight in many areas, a little special care should remove it quite easily.
Efflorescence is usually a seasonal problem, especially in Colorado, as humidity impacts whether the salts will appear.
Rain, sleet, and snow are common culprits of efflorescence.
It will often disappear over time, but many masons recommend removing it within 60 days. But, unfortunately, it’s within those first two months that it’s still soluble.
If it doesn’t dissipate, many masons recommend using white vinegar or a dilute solution of white vinegar and water to remove it.
Apply the vinegar directly to the masonry using a nylon-bristled scrub brush.
Again, please do not use a wire-bristled brush as it can damage the masonry surface.
Like when removing moss and mold, ensure that the vinegar does not spill on any plants as it may kill them.
Be sure to use light pressure, so you don’t damage the masonry surface.
Dirt, Dust, and Soot
Before washing dirty masonry, use a vacuum to remove loose dirt and debris.
HGTV recommends using a natural cleanser that can be made at home.
Use two tablespoons of cream of tartar with a small amount of water to make a paste.
Apply the mixture to your masonry and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Then, rinse with warm water and wipe off with a soft cloth that won’t damage your brick, block, or stone.
Mix equal vinegar and water for larger areas like brick walls or floors.
Pour the cleaner into a spray bottle and apply it to the surface. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Finally, use a mop or soft cloth to scrub the cleaner from the masonry surface, ensuring that you aren’t causing any damage.
Rinse with warm water. An alternative cleanser recipe is equal parts vinegar and water. Use the same application method stated above.
With that, you should be able to keep your interior and exterior brick lasting long and looking great!
BrickImaging – Brick Staining Contractors Best Choice
BrickImaging has been the premier brick staining company in the nation since our founding in 1976.
Our exclusive Stayntech™ brick stains provide a consistent finish that is permanent, looks entirely natural, and is maintenance-free. Our stains are formulated specifically for brick, block, stone, and mortar, and are guaranteed to never bubble, chip, or peel, like paint.
To learn more about the best brick stain, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the details of your latest home improvement project.
