Moss, algae, pollen, and basic grime can all work together to make your exterior brick look awful. Fortunately, brick is a relatively durable material, so cleaning it up is always a possibility. The following guide can help you determine the best method for cleaning your brick.

Method #1: Deck scrubbing

Scrubbing down a brick wall with a deck brush can be an effective and inexpensive way to get brick clean. You need a brush with stiff bristles. Do not use one with wire bristles, though, as these will damage the brick and grout. One with a removable handle works best. You can use the handle to reach high on the wall, and remove it to turn the brush into a hand brush for lower areas. A specially made brick cleaner can help remove grime. Alternatively, mix up a 10 percent bleach solution and use this to scrub the brick. The bleach removes stains and also kills any moss or algae spores.

Choose this method if you prefer to clean the brick yourself or if you are on a very tight budget. It may also be the best choice if you have some damage to your brick or grouting that you aren't ready to repair yet, as scrubbing can be much more gentle on the brick compared to pressure washing.

Method #2: Power washing

Power washing takes much less effort, but it does require the equipment, as well as some skill in using it. Too much pressure can damage brick, particularly the softer grouting. It's often more cost-effective in the long run to bring in a pressure washing company since they will have both the equipment and the skills for using it properly. Often, brick can be cleaned with water alone when it's done by power washing, and it will often appear much cleaner than a brick wall that was cleaned by scrubbing. If there is moss or algae growing on the brick, request that the service use bleach or a moss-killer solution in the power washer so the problem isn't quick to return.

Pressure washing is best if the brick is in good condition and you want it cleaned thoroughly and quickly. The result is typically much more impressive compared to scrubbing alone. For more help, contact a power washing service in your area.

As you can see, there is no need to live with a grimy exterior on your home. Contact a cleaning service in your area if you want immediate help in getting your brick clean.