How to Clean Algae Off Brick

How to Clean Algae Off Brick
Written By
Dawn Gibbs
Dawn Gibbs
Published: Sep 22, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Using improper cleaners can lead to the death of the surrounding vegetation. Oxygen bleach will kill the algae without harming the brick, mortar or plant life.

Things You Will Need

  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Warm water
  • Stick or paint stirrer
  • Sponge
  • Street broom or scrub brush
  • Garden hose
  1. Fill a 5-gallon bucket with warm water. Add powdered oxygen bleach at the rate directed on the package. Stir with a wooden stick or paint stirrer until the bleach dissolves.

  2. Pour the bleach solution onto the brick. If you are cleaning a brick wall, dip a sponge into the solution and wipe down the brick until it is soaked. Let the bleach sit for 10 minutes.

  3. Scrub the brick with a street broom or a stiff-bristle scrub brush until the algae is gone. Rinse the brick with a garden hose and let it air-dry.

The Drip Cap

  • Algae and mildew can build up on brick over a winter season, or if the brick is exposed to moisture and shade.
  • Algae discolors the brick and can make the surface look prematurely old.
  • Stir with a wooden stick or paint stirrer until the bleach dissolves.

Photo Credits

Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

Dawn Gibbs

Based in Richmond, Va., Dawn Gibbs writes about topics such as history, fashion, literature, crafts, alternative medicine and healthy living. Her work has appeared on GreenDaily.com and several style websites. Gibbs holds a Bachelor of…

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