Cleaning Masonry Surfaces

Cleaning Masonry Surfaces Without Muriatic Acid

Introduction:

There are two ways to effectively clean a masonry surfaces. One is with muriatic acid and the other with mechanical methods. Mechanical cleaning methods include sandblasting, abrasive wheels and special power tools used for cleaning mortar lines in brick and concrete block. Any mechanical method for cleaning masonry surfaces is the preferred way rather than using muriatic acid. Power tools for cleaning masonry can be rented at many rental equipment rental centers or most hardware stores.

Cleaning with muriatic acid should not be the first choice. It should only be the last resort. Only use muriatic acid if you have no other choice.

The problem with using muriatic acid is using it safely. It can be used safely with proper preparation. Muriatic acid must always be used with extreme caution. Any contact with the eyes can cause permanent blindness. If it contacts the skin it will cause severe burns.

Cleaning masonry surfaces with muriatic acid:

1. Always dress appropriately. Don't wear your regular casual clothing such as shorts and t-shirts. Coveralls should be worn instead. Wear acid-resistant gloves and a full face mask for protection. In addition, a respirator with the appropriate acid-grade filter should also be worn. Hardware stores and paint stores carry acid resistant coveralls.

2. Have a source of water as a neutralizing agent readily available in the event that you spill acid on your skin. The water will neutralize the acid.

3. Cover or wet all foliage with water as muriatic acid will damage or kill any foliage it comes in contact with.

Other than mechanical methods another alternative to muriatic acid for cleaning concrete and grout is a cleaner that contains phosphoric acid. Under most circumstances phosphoric acid does just as good of a job as muriatic acid and is less hazardous. Phosphoric acid cleaner contains chemicals which emulsify surface oils to help the acid work more effectively and safely.

For your next masonry cleaning project I recommend either a mechanical method or phosphoric acid. Muriatic acid should only be used as the last resort.

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