Mold is a common problem for brickwork because it doesn’t take much for mold to grow in any environment. Whether your building is constructed with bricks or you have brick accents like walls, walkways, or stairs, you have likely seen mold at some point. Mold can thrive anywhere moisture remains for any length of time. Ignoring the mold will only allow it to grow more, negatively impacting the appearance of your brickwork as well as the strength and durability. Here are some tips for removing mold from bricks.
Find the Moisture Source
Mold thrives in damp environments and feeds on organic matter. Mold cannot feed on brick because it is an inorganic material, but mold is able to survive on the dust or dirt layer that forms on the top surface of masonry structures. First, it’s important to find the water source before you clean the mold off; otherwise, it will keep coming back. Be sure to check your basement, window wells, and gutters, as these are all places where water can accumulate, which leads to mold growth. Even a tiny crack or leak can lead to serious water and mold problems.
Be Safe When Cleaning
Mold is toxic to inhale or touch, so take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe and healthy when you are cleaning. Put on safety goggles, rubber gloves, and a mask to prevent mold from coming into contact with your skin or lungs.
Apply Cleaning Products
There are many standard cleaning products that you can use to remove mold from your brickwork. You can apply mold and mildew remover to the damaged areas on bricks. Let the mixture sit for 3-5 minutes. Use a brush to scrub the cleaner into the bricks, and then rinse the area thoroughly. You can also use bleach to remove mold from bricks. Combine one part bleach and one part water, and scrub the mold away. Be aware that some bricks will fade or turn a different color when exposed to bleach.
Consider Using Vinegar
Standard cleaning products or bleach water is good for removing mold, but it does not eliminate dead mold spores. Use undiluted vinegar and spray the infected area. Let the vinegar sit for about 5 minutes, then clean it off using a brush. Then rinse the vinegar with hot water and respray the area. This time, don’t rinse away the vinegar; leave it to penetrate the brick and kill the mold that is on the interior.
Contact Del Prete Masonry Today!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: brickwork, Commercial Brick Restoration, Commercial Masonry Restoration