When it comes to cleaning brick surfaces, choosing the right technique can make all the difference in preserving the material’s integrity and appearance. For many, the default assumption is that high-pressure washing is the most effective method. While pressure washing can work well on durable surfaces like concrete, it can spell trouble for brickwork.
Here’s why soft washing is the correct—and safe—approach for cleaning brick.
The Problem with Pressure Washing Brick
Brick may seem robust, but it’s actually more vulnerable to damage than meets the eye. The typical brick is porous, meaning it has tiny holes that allow it to “breathe” and absorb water. Over time, this natural property allows bricks to expand and contract as they absorb moisture from the atmosphere. Pressure washing, which relies on high-pressure streams of water to clean surfaces, can forcefully remove the dirt and grime but may also damage the outer layer of the brick and its mortar.
Here’s how:
- Erosion of Brick Surface and Mortar: High-pressure streams can strip away layers of the brick surface, leading to erosion. This doesn’t just damage the brick aesthetically but weakens it structurally. Mortar, the binding material between bricks, is even more susceptible to damage. High pressure can erode the mortar, destabilizing the structure.
- Water Penetration: The force of pressure washing can drive water deep into the brick’s pores. This can lead to moisture becoming trapped within the brick, which is especially problematic in climates with freezing temperatures, as the trapped water can freeze, expand, and cause cracks in the brick over time.
- Discoloration: The intense force of pressure washing can leave bricks looking uneven and discolored. Soft, older bricks are especially prone to this discoloration, leading to a patchy appearance that can be difficult to remedy.
Why Soft Washing is the Better Option for Brick
Soft washing uses low pressure combined with specialized cleaning solutions designed to break down dirt, mold, algae, and mildew. Here are the main reasons why soft washing is superior for cleaning brick:
- Preserves Structural Integrity: With low-pressure application, soft washing avoids the aggressive force that can damage the surface of the brick and mortar. Instead of relying on the force of water, soft washing uses a gentle approach that’s safe and effective, preserving the brick’s integrity and longevity.
- Targeted Cleaning with Safe Chemicals: Soft washing solutions are formulated to be tough on grime but gentle on surfaces. These solutions penetrate brick pores, eliminating mold, mildew, and algae at their roots without compromising the structure. When rinsed off, these cleaning agents leave behind a pristine surface without the risk of water infiltration.
- A Long-Lasting Clean: Soft washing doesn’t just remove dirt and debris; it also eliminates the spores that cause mold and mildew to grow. This means a longer-lasting clean compared to pressure washing, which only removes surface grime, allowing mold and mildew to return more quickly.
- Maintains Aesthetic Value: Soft washing avoids the discoloration and uneven wear that pressure washing can cause. The gentle approach retains the brick’s natural color, preserving its timeless beauty and character.
When and How to Use Soft Washing on Brick
For the best results, brick should ideally be soft-washed every few years to prevent buildup of mold, mildew, and grime. The process is simple yet effective and involves:
- Applying a Biodegradable Cleaning Solution: The technician applies a safe, eco-friendly solution that penetrates the brick surface, targeting mold, algae, and grime at a molecular level.
- Rinsing with Low-Pressure Water: After allowing the solution time to work, the surface is gently rinsed with water at low pressure, washing away contaminants without pushing water deep into the brick.
- Optional Protective Coating: Some soft washing services include a protective coating that can help repel future dirt and moisture, prolonging the life of the clean and preserving the brick’s appearance.
Why Choose Bean’s Power Clean for Soft Washing?
At Bean’s Power Clean, we specialize in soft washing techniques that keep your brick surfaces looking great without risking damage. Our team is trained to handle delicate surfaces with care, using only the safest, most effective cleaning solutions. By choosing soft washing, you’re making an investment in the longevity of your property and ensuring your brick surfaces remain as stunning as the day they were installed.
So, before reaching for that pressure washer, remember that a gentler approach goes a long way in maintaining the beauty and strength of your brick surfaces. Soft washing with Bean’s Power Clean provides a safe, effective solution that truly shines.
