Brick is a timeless building material known for its aesthetic appeal and durability. Whether you’re constructing a house, fireplace, or floors, brick’s inherent beauty is hard to match. 

    However, you can’t lay bricks without mortar, which can be challenging to remove once it dries. In this guide, I’ll explain the steps to efficiently remove dried mortar from bricks.



    Preparation is Key: Protecting Your Surroundings

    Before you embark on the task of cleaning mortar off your bricks, it’s vital to take comprehensive precautions to safeguard your surroundings. This will help you avoid inadvertently damaging elements next to your brickwork.

    Here are some safety measures to consider:

    • Shielding Plants. Your garden or landscaping is a valuable part of your property. To protect your plants, shrubs, and greenery from potential chemical spills, cover them with a tarp. This acts as a barrier, preventing any cleaning solution or residue from coming into contact with foliage. After all, you wouldn’t want your beautiful garden to bear the brunt of your brick-cleaning efforts.
    • Marking Sensitive Areas. Apart from plants, other sensitive areas like window sills and doors can also be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals. Use masking tape to mark off these areas, creating a clear boundary that should not be crossed during the cleaning process.
    • Donning Personal Protective Equipment. As an attentive homeowner, your safety should be a priority. Equip yourself with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to shield against potential splashes and exposure to cleaning chemicals. Safety glasses protect your eyes, rubber gloves guard your hands, and a rain suit shields your entire body. Taking these precautions, you can carry out the cleaning process without putting yourself at risk.

    Selecting the Right Cleaning Solution: A Critical Choice

    To efficiently remove mortar from your bricks, the choice of cleaning solution is pivotal. You want to make an informed decision to guarantee the best outcome for your brickwork.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    For this specific task, I recommend using Prosoco Sure Klean 600. This cleaning product is formulated to dissolve mortar residue from brick surfaces. It is tailored to address the unique challenge of mortar removal from bricks, making it a top choice for homeowners like you.


    Preparing the Cleaning Solution: The Right Mix

    Now that you’ve chosen the right cleaning solution, it’s time to prepare it. Diluting it correctly is key to an effective solution for tackling stubborn mortar stains on your brickwork.

    To create the cleaning solution, mix 1 part ‌Prosoco Sure Klean 600 concentrate with 6 parts ‌water. This precise dilution ratio is not only effective but also safe for both you and your bricks. It strikes the perfect balance to remove stubborn mortar stains without causing harm.


    Application: Safely Treating Your Bricks

    With your protective gear in place and the cleaning solution ready, it’s time to apply it to the affected areas. Your brickwork deserves careful treatment to restore its beauty without damage.

    Using a spray bottle or a soft cloth, gently wet the dried mortar stains with the diluted cleaning solution, distributing evenly. It’s essential not to oversaturate the bricks, as excessive moisture can lead to further complications, potentially damaging the mortar joints.


    Allow Time for Reaction: Patience is a Virtue

    After applying the cleaning solution, patience is key. You should allow time for the solution to react with the mortar. This waiting period is essential as it helps loosen the dried mortar, making it significantly easier to remove. However, the specific dwell time may vary depending on the severity of the stains.

    To determine the exact dwell time, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Different products may have different requirements, so adhering to the guidelines provided guarantees that you achieve the best results in line with industry standards.


    Scrubbing and Removal: Restoring Your Brick’s Luster

    Once the mortar has softened, the process of scrubbing and removal can begin. For stubborn stains, persistence may be necessary. Here’s how to get started:

    • Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub the stains gently. A circular motion is often the most effective technique to dislodge the residue. Apply moderate pressure.
    • Repeat as needed. For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the application and scrubbing process until the mortar is completely removed.

    Rinse and Restore

    After successfully removing the mortar, rinse the brick surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution. This step is essential to prevent any potential damage to the bricks or the surrounding areas. Once the surface is clean, your pristine brick layout will be restored to its former glory.

    man washing brick with a power washer
    Canva

    While mortar can be challenging to remove from bricks once it dries, the right cleaning solution and technique can make this task manageable. By taking the necessary precautions, selecting an effective cleaning product, and following the proper steps, you can easily restore the beauty of your brickwork. Whether you’re a seasoned bricklayer or a DIY enthusiast, this guide helps keep your brick surfaces looking their best.


    So, Is Removing Mortar From Bricks Really Easy?

    Removing mortar from bricks may seem daunting at first, but armed with the right knowledge and tools, it becomes a manageable task. While the task may require some effort, it is by no means insurmountable. With the right approach and a little determination, you can easily remove mortar from bricks.

    Are you currently remodeling? If so, you may find our guides to picking the matching mortar for your bricks, how to hang drywall over bricks or picking a contractor.

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    FAQs About Removing Mortar From Bricks Easily

    Can I use any cleaning solution to remove mortar from bricks, or is Prosoco Sure Klean 600 essential?

    I recommend Prosoco Sure Klean 600 for its effectiveness in dissolving mortar residue from brick surfaces. While it’s a top choice, other specialized brick cleaning solutions may also work. However, it’s crucial to make sure the cleaning solution you choose is safe for both your bricks and the environment.


    How do I protect my plants when removing mortar from bricks?

    To safeguard your plants during the cleaning process, cover them with a tarp. This protective barrier prevents cleaning chemicals from coming into contact with your greenery. It’s a simple yet effective way to protect your garden.


    What if I encounter stubborn mortar stains that don't come off easily?

    For stubborn stains, patience and persistence are key. If the mortar stains are particularly challenging, you may need to repeat the application and scrubbing process. Staying diligent, you’ll make sure the mortar is completely removed, restoring your brickwork to its original luster.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas is a globetrotting content writer hailing from the USA. With a passion for pest control, he brings a unique perspective to his writing from his early years working for one of the largest pest control companies in America. Throughout his early 20s, Jordan gained valuable experience and knowledge in the field, tackling pest infestations head-on and ensuring the well-being of countless homes.

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    Casey Daniel

    Casey Daniel is a writer and editor with a passion for empowering readers to improve their homes and their lives. She has written and reviewed content across multiple topics, including home improvement, lawn and garden care, sustainability, and health and wellness. When she’s not reviewing articles, Casey is usually playing board games, repainting her bathroom, or quilting.

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