How to Clean Bricks and Mortar With Muriatic Acid

By Shelly Schumacher

Efflorescence is a common occurrence on new brick and mortar. This is a flakey white deposit that occurs when the moisture within the bricks and mortar comes to the surface. The liquid combines with additional minerals within the masonry. When the moisture dries, it leaves behind mineral deposits on the outside surfaces. Once the humidity level in the masonry is gone, efflorescence stops. However, the white deposits are still apparent until they are cleaned off. The fastest way to clean efflorescence from bricks and mortar is using a muriatic acid cleaning mixture.

Clean Bricks and Mortar With Muriatic Acid

Step 1

Cover surrounding area with a plastic drop cloth to protect surfaces.

Step 2

Put on thick rubber gloves, a ventilator mask and eye protection.

Step 3

Mix 10 parts water to 1 part muriatic acid in a bucket.

Step 4

Apply water to the bricks and mortar with a cloth until damp.

Step 5

Saturate a cloth in the acid and water mixture and apply liberally to the bricks and mortar.

Step 6

Allow mixture to sit about one minute.

Step 7

Neutralize the muriatic acid by applying a mixture of ammonia (1 cup) and water (1 gallon) with a clean cloth.

Step 8

Wash with a stiff-bristled brush and water until the residue is removed from wall.

Shelly Schumacher

Shelly Schumacher has a diverse writing background that includes work in print as well as electronic publications. She has been writing for over 18 years and enjoys working with a variety of different clients on both writing projects and as a marketing and public relations consultant. Schumacher holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Wisconsin.