How to Acid Wash Brick

Revive your home's charm by acid-washing your brick

Woman sitting in window frame
Photo: Oliver Rossi / Stone / Getty Images
Woman sitting in window frame
Photo: Oliver Rossi / Stone / Getty Images
C.E. Larusso
Written by C.E. Larusso
Contributing Writer
Updated Jul 30, 2024
SKILL LEVEL
Easy
COMPLETION TIME
1 hour
COST
$50-$100
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
  • Bristle brush
  • Hose
  • Chemical-resistant gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Face mask or respirator
SUPPLIES
  • Muriatic acid-based cleaner
  • Water
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Mild detergent
  • Baking soda

Brick is a timeless building material that adds charm and character to any home. However, over time, exposure to the elements can cause brick surfaces to become discolored and unsightly. This is when acid wash brick techniques come in handy. If your brick facade is looking worn and dingy, acid washing is an effective way to bring back its original beauty. Acid washing is a technique used to clean and rejuvenate brick surfaces, removing stains, dirt, and efflorescence. 

From brick fireplaces to walls—let’s walk through the process of how to wash brick with muriatic acid, ensuring your home's exterior regains its luster.

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How to Acid Wash Brick in Five Steps

In most cases, acid washing brick involves cleaning the bricks’ surface, applying the acid-based cleaner using a bristle brush, rinsing, inspecting the brick, and then using a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize any remaining acid solution. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

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  1. Pre-Clean the Brick

    Before acid washing the entire brick surface, it’s a good idea to do a small test area to ensure the acid solution doesn't cause any unwanted reactions. Once you’re confident that the solution you’re using is suitable and doesn’t ruin the brick’s stain, you can then move on to pre-cleaning the brick. 

    Begin by removing any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the brick surface. Use a broom or a brush to sweep away the larger particles. If there are visible stains, try using a mild detergent mixed with water to clean them. This pre-cleaning step will allow the acid solution to penetrate more effectively during the acid-washing process.

  2. Apply the Acid Solution

    Man cleaning brick wall
    Photo: Chad Robertson / Adobe Stock

    Now comes the main process of acid washing. Dilute the muriatic acid-based cleaner with water per the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, a 1:10 acid-to-water ratio is recommended for brick cleaning. Always add acid to water and not the other way around to avoid dangerous chemical reactions.

    Using the bristle brush, apply the acid solution to the brick surface. Work in small sections to ensure the solution doesn't dry out before you can rinse it off. Gently scrub the brick with the brush, paying extra attention to stained or discolored areas. Allow the acid solution to sit on the brick for a few minutes (follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific time).

  3. Rinse Thoroughly

    After the designated waiting time, thoroughly rinse the acid solution off the brick surface with copious amounts of water. It is crucial to remove all traces of acid to prevent further damage to the brick and surrounding environment. Use a hose (or a pressure washer if available), and keep rinsing until the water runs clear and the pH level is back to neutral.

  4. Do a Post-Cleaning Inspection

    A modern brick house
    Photo: drhfoto / Adobe Stock

    Inspect the brick surface for any remaining stains or blemishes. If there are stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the acid-washing process. However, take care not to overuse the acid solution, as excessive exposure can weaken the brick structure.

  5. Neutralization

    Once you are satisfied with the results, neutralize any remaining acid residue on the brick surface. Prepare a mixture of baking soda and water and apply it to the brick. This will help neutralize any lingering acidic content.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 

If you feel comfortable with the process to acid wash brick and have many of the supplies, you could DIY this project and save money. On the flip side, if you are unsure about the process, want to save time, or encounter significant brick staining or damage that requires brick wall repair, consult a professional brick cleaning service near you for best results. The cost for a professional to acid wash brick ranges from $0.60 to $0.65 per square foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, acid washing can change the appearance of the original brick stain color. It removes dirt, and efflorescence, often revealing the brick's original color and restoring its natural beauty. However, if not done carefully, it can also cause slight variations in color due to the cleaning process.

The length of time that you leave the acid on your brick will vary depending on the specific muriatic acid-based cleaner you use. Generally, it will range from 5 to 15 minutes. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended time, and avoid leaving the acid on too long to prevent potential damage to the brick surface.

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C.E. Larusso
Written by C.E. Larusso
Contributing Writer
A professional content writer, C.E. has written about all things home, family, and wellness for a variety of publications, including HomeLight, Noodle, and Mimi. A third-generation Los Angeleno, she is always looking for ways to make the most of the sun, whether it be building an urban garden or decorating with the help of some low-maintenance, air-purifying plants.

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