How to Pressure Wash Brick — in 7 Steps

When the exterior brick on your home looks a bit worse for wear, pressure washing might be the brick cleaning solution you need. High-pressure cleaning isn't for every exterior wall surface, but brick is a uniquely durable material, despite being susceptible to dirt buildup and even algae. A day spent power washing can remove that dirt as well as tough stains, but there are still some best practices to make sure you do it without accidentally damaging the mortar.

7 Steps to Pressure Washing Brick

1. Prepare the area. There's a lot of overspray when you pressure wash exterior brick, so relocate any outdoor furniture, decorations, or obstacles. Cover nearby plants and landscaping with a lightweight bedsheet or plastic sheeting for added protection.
   
2. Inspect the surface. Check for cracks, loose mortar, or damage. Power washers can exacerbate distressed brick and mortar. Make any necessary repairs before cleaning the affected area.
   
3. Set up the pressure washer. Connect the pressure washer to a water source and add detergent to the tool as per your manufacturer's guide. If you have a gas-powered pressure washer, make sure it has the appropriate fuel and a clean spark plug. Electric-powered washer? Plug it in or run necessary extension cords. Finally, attach the appropriate nozzle for brick cleaning, such as a wide-angle or rotary nozzle. A 25-degree attachment is a good all-purpose cleaner, but use a 15-degree nozzle if you find you need more pressure.
   
4. Spray down! Start pressure washing the brick surface from the top down, using steady and even strokes. Keep the nozzle angled against the wall at a 30-degree angle and a consistent distance from the brick to avoid causing damage. Do not blast the spray directly at the wall! Notice how the surface cleans as you work. The dirt will clear away and any algae from bricks will flake off, exposing the actual brick color once again.
   
5. Let the soapy water pretreat the surface. The soap distributed during the initial cleaning can sit on the brick surface for 10-20 minutes. This is especially important if you're tackling brick stains.
6. Rinse thoroughly. The brick will need one more spray to clean soap residue or loosened debris. You can use a wider angle nozzle for this (upwards of 40-degree nozzles work well). While you're at it, clean overspray from other area surfaces, such as sidewalks or the driveway. If you need to rinse off a painted surface, opt for a regular hose and spray nozzle — the water pressure from a power washer can destroy your finish.
   
7. Let the brick dry. Remove the protective coverings from your plants, but allow other surfaces to dry completely before relocating any furniture or decorations.
   

How often should I pressure wash my brick house?

The frequency of cleaning brick walls depends on factors such as climate, exposure to dirt and debris, and personal preference. In general, brick exteriors don't require much maintenance. Once a year (or even every other year) is usually enough to keep surfaces looking well-maintained.

Can pressure washing damage brick?

Yes, brick damage is possible. Using too much pressure or holding the nozzle too close to the brick can cause etching, pitting, or even dislodging of the mortar of your brick home. It's important to use the appropriate pressure setting and hold the nozzle at a safe distance and angle as you clean brick by brick.

Are there any alternatives to pressure washing brick?

If pressure washing isn't feasible or preferred, opt instead to clean brick walls by hand using a stiff-bristled brush and a mild detergent solution. You can also use a chemical brick cleaner, or hire a professional brick company for cleaning services. Handwashing methods can be less abrasive than pressure washing and may be suitable for delicate or older brick surfaces.