If you’ve noticed that the bricks on your house are turning black, it’s possibly due to a phenomenon known as carbon staining. This carbon staining is a common problem that can occur on both older and newer homes and can be unsightly and difficult to remove. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what causes stains on brick and how you can clean it off to restore the appearance of your home.
One of the leading causes of staining on bricks is the accumulation of carbon, soot and other pollutants in the air. Known in the industry as carbon staining, these pollutants come from various sources, including vehicle exhaust, industrial activities, and historical coal-burning fires. As the pollutants settle onto the surface of the bricks, they can leave behind a black, greasy film that, over time, becomes extremely difficult to remove.
Another possible cause of staining on bricks is the presence of mould, algae or mildew. These fungi and algae can grow on the surface of the bricks and cause them to turn black or discoloured. This process can be widespread in damp or humid environments. Thankfully, organic staining is more easily cleaned and rectified than carbon staining. Often treating with a detergent and gentle steam cleaning will be a suitable treatment for the problem.
How to Remove Black or White Stains on Brick?
Carbon staining is particularly stubborn, and you must use a combination of cleaning methods. We use a steam pressure washer to remove any organic staining and wet the surface of the brick. The pressure washer must be used at a low setting to avoid damaging the bricks and pointing.
We would then treat the surface of the bricks with an acid known for removing carbon staining. This acid is highly corrosive and dangerous and should only be used by trained and experienced professionals.
Cleaning organic staining off brick using steam
In conclusion, staining on bricks is a common problem with a variety of causes, including both organic and carbon-based pollutants in the air. As mentioned above, organic staining is more easily resolved than carbon staining. However, it can be challenging to tell carbon staining from organic staining. If in doubt, consult a brick cleaning professional.
The homeowner should never attempt to remove carbon staining themselves. Trying to do so with a detergent, pressure washer, or steam will not work. The acids and chemicals involved carry a real risk to the users’ safety and the property itself.
Doors can be damaged, glass etched and pointing removed if care isn’t taken. Tellingly, many exterior cleaning professionals won’t attempt to remove carbon because of the chemicals involved.
Call or email us today. We will look at the problem and let you know the source of the staining and how it can be rectified. We’ve cleaned hundreds of brick and sandstone properties over the last 15 years and have the experience and equipment to carry the work out safely and to your satisfaction.
