How to Clean Brick Wall: Sydney Homeowner’s Guide (2025) – Edgeflow


How to Clean Your Brick Wall: A Sydney Homeowner’s Guide to Restoring Charm (2025)

Brick walls are a timeless and durable feature of many Sydney homes, offering character and strength. However, over time, exposure to Sydney’s weather, pollution, and organic growth can leave your brickwork looking dull, stained, or covered in unsightly marks. Knowing how to clean a brick wall correctly can revive its appearance and protect its integrity. At Edgeflow, we’re experts in exterior house washing in Sydney, and that includes the specialised care required for brick surfaces.

Common Issues Affecting Sydney Brick Walls:

  • General Dirt and Grime: Accumulated dust, pollution, and cobwebs.
  • Mould and Mildew: Dark, splotchy growths, especially in damp or shaded areas.
  • Algae: Greenish growth, often found on lower sections of walls.
  • Efflorescence: A white, powdery salt deposit that appears on the brick surface as moisture evaporates.
  • Mortar Stains or Paint Splatters: Remnants from construction or previous DIY projects.
  • Moss Growth: Can occur in damp, shaded areas, particularly on older brickwork.

DIY Brick Wall Cleaning: Methods and Considerations

Before starting any cleaning, it’s crucial to identify the type of brick (e.g., older, softer bricks are more delicate) and the nature of the soiling. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first.

1. For General Dirt and Light Grime:

  1. Preparation: Cover nearby plants and sensitive surfaces with plastic sheeting. Sweep or brush down the wall to remove loose debris.
  2. Wetting: Thoroughly wet the brick wall with a garden hose. This helps prevent the brick from absorbing too much of the cleaning solution.
  3. Cleaning Solution:
    • Mildest Option: Often, plain water and some vigorous scrubbing with a stiff (but not wire) brush is enough for light dirt.
    • Detergent Wash: Mix a mild detergent (like dish soap or a specialised brick cleaner) with warm water. Apply with a brush or sponge, scrub the affected areas, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Rinsing: Rinse the wall thoroughly from top to bottom with clean water from the hose. Ensure all soap residue is removed.

2. Tackling Mould, Mildew, or Algae:

  • A solution of 1 part household bleach to 3-4 parts water can be effective. Apply with a garden sprayer or brush, let it sit for 15-20 minutes (but don’t let it dry), then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Use bleach with extreme caution: wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, old clothes), ensure good ventilation, and protect plants meticulously.
  • Alternatively, a vinegar solution (1 part white vinegar to 1 part water) can also work on lighter organic growth.

3. Addressing Efflorescence:

  • Often, efflorescence can be removed by dry brushing with a stiff brush.
  • If brushing isn’t enough, wet the area, scrub with a stiff brush, and rinse. Specialised efflorescence removers are also available but use with care according to instructions.
  • Note: Persistent efflorescence may indicate an underlying moisture problem that needs addressing.

4. Pressure Washing Brick Walls (Use with Extreme Caution for DIY):

While pressure washing can be effective, it can also easily damage brick and mortar if done incorrectly, especially on older or softer bricks.

  • If attempting DIY, use the lowest possible pressure setting.
  • Use a wide fan-tip nozzle (e.g., 25 or 40 degrees).
  • Keep the nozzle at least 30-50 cm away from the brick surface.
  • Never direct the spray at damaged mortar or loose bricks.
  • A much safer professional alternative is soft washing, which uses low pressure and effective cleaning solutions.

When to Call Edgeflow for Professional Brick Wall Cleaning in Sydney:

While DIY methods can handle light cleaning, professional help is often the best and safest choice for:

  • Large Brick Surfaces: Cleaning extensive brick walls is time-consuming and physically demanding.
  • Stubborn Stains or Heavy Soiling: Professionals have access to more effective, yet safe, cleaning solutions and techniques.
  • Older or Delicate Brickwork: Requires expert assessment to avoid damage. Edgeflow can determine if soft washing or carefully controlled pressure washing is appropriate.
  • Significant Mould, Algae, or Efflorescence: Professionals can treat these issues more thoroughly and advise on prevention.
  • Height or Access Issues: Cleaning multi-story brick homes requires specialised equipment and safety protocols.
  • A Uniform, High-Quality Finish: Professionals ensure consistent cleaning without streaks or damage.

Edgeflow: Restoring the Beauty of Your Sydney Brickwork

Cleaning your brick wall can dramatically improve your Sydney home’s appearance. At Edgeflow, our house washing services are tailored to suit different exterior surfaces, including all types of brick. We use the appropriate methods, whether it’s gentle soft washing or carefully controlled pressure cleaning, to safely and effectively remove dirt, stains, and organic growth, reviving your brickwork’s natural charm.

This service can also be essential for brick fence cleaning, ensuring a cohesive look for your property. For a complete exterior makeover, trust Edgeflow’s range of professional cleaning services.

Ready to see your Sydney brick walls transformed? Contact Edgeflow today for a free quote and expert advice.