How to Clean Algae Off Brick
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. Cleaning brick off algae is not difficult, but the choice of chemical cleaners is important, especially if the brick is outside.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
References
Writer Bio
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 Arts in history from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Photo Credits
- Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
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