Removing dried mortar from brick involves carefully breaking away the larger pieces and then cleaning the residue with brushing and chemical assistance.
When tackling dried mortar on brick surfaces, the process typically involves a combination of mechanical action to remove the bulk and chemical treatment for the stubborn remnants and final cleanup.
Methods for Mortar Removal
The primary methods involve initial physical removal followed by cleaning.
1. Striking and Scraping
For larger, thicker deposits of dried mortar, mechanical action is necessary. According to the provided reference, a key technique is:
- Striking the mortar at an angle should break the mortar leaving the brick in tact.
This method uses a tool like a chisel or hammer to hit the mortar edge at an angle, causing it to chip away from the brick surface without damaging the brick face itself. Safety glasses are essential when doing this.
2. Brushing and Chemical Cleaning
Once the larger chunks are removed, smaller bits and residual stains often remain. This is where brushing and chemical cleaners come into play. The reference suggests:
- For the smaller bits and cleanup a combination of a good wire brush, such as Trojan 5x15 Row Brass Wire Brush, and Builders Edge 750ml Cement N Concrete Remover should do the trick.
This combination works by:
- Wire Brushing: A brass wire brush is less likely to scratch the brick surface compared to steel brushes. It helps to loosen and remove powdery residue and smaller attached pieces.
- Chemical Remover: Products like Builders Edge 750ml Cement N Concrete Remover are designed to dissolve or weaken the bond of cement and mortar, making them easier to scrub away. Always follow the product instructions carefully, including dwell time and rinsing. Test the chemical in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't harm the brick or mortar joints.
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s a breakdown of the process based on the techniques described:
- Prepare the Area: Protect surrounding areas and wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.
- Mechanical Removal: Using a chisel and hammer or a similar tool, carefully strike the dried mortar at an angle to chip it away from the brick surface. Focus on removing the thickest layers first.
- Initial Brushing: Use a stiff brush or a wire brush (like the Trojan 5x15 Row Brass Wire Brush) to brush away the debris created in the previous step and loosen remaining small pieces.
- Apply Chemical Remover: Apply a suitable cement and concrete remover (such as Builders Edge 750ml Cement N Concrete Remover) to the remaining mortar residue. Allow it to work for the time specified on the product label.
- Scrub: While the chemical is active or after the recommended time, scrub the affected area with a wire brush (like the brass one mentioned) or a stiff bristle brush.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the area with clean water to remove the chemical and loosened mortar.
- Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the application of the chemical remover and scrubbing steps.
By following these steps, combining careful mechanical removal with targeted cleaning using appropriate brushes and chemical solutions, you can effectively remove dried mortar from brick while preserving the integrity and appearance of the bricks.
