Cleaning a brick fireplace can seem like a daunting task, but with the right supplies and steps, you can restore its natural beauty and ensure it remains functional for years to come. Whether you're preparing for a cozy winter fire or just looking to freshen up your space, follow these simple steps to learn how to clean a brick fireplace.
How to Clean a Brick Fireplace
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Cleaning fireplace brick can be done in a just a few hours with some elbow grease and determination. Your fireplace cleaning cost will be much less if you decide to do it yourself instead of hiring a handyman and you probably already have most of the materials you’ll need in your garage.
Tools and Materials you'll need:
- Safety Goggles
- Rubber Gloves
- Shop Vac or Portable Vacuum
- Small Brush Broom
- Drop Cloth
- Sturdy Scrub Brush
- Bucket of Water
- TSP (Trisodium Phosphate)
- Fireplace Cleaner or Heavy Duty Soap
Step 1: Prepare the area
Start by clearing the area around the fireplace. Lay down a drop cloth or tarp to catch any debris, dust, or cleaning solution. Make sure to remove any furniture or rugs near the fireplace that could be damaged during the process. If there’s any soot buildup inside the fireplace, sweep it out using a broom or vacuum with a hose attachment to remove as much debris as possible.
Step 2: Mix the solution
To clean the brick surface effectively, you’ll need to mix a cleaning solution. In a bucket, combine warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap, or for tougher grime, use a fireplace-specific cleaner. If you prefer a more natural solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. This vinegar mixture is great for tackling stubborn stains or soot buildup without using harsh chemicals.
Step 3: Apply the solution
Once your cleaning solution is ready, dip a scrub brush or sponge into the mixture and begin applying it to the brick surface. Work in small sections to ensure thorough coverage. Be sure to focus on areas with visible soot, stains, or grease. If the fireplace has significant buildup, you might need to apply the solution multiple times. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the solution to break down the grime before scrubbing.
Step 4: Scrub your brick
After applying the solution, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the brick surface. Use circular motions and a little elbow grease to loosen up the dirt, soot, and stains. For areas with deeper stains, you may need to apply extra pressure. Be gentle, though, as you don't want to damage the brick surface.
Step 5: Rinse away the solution
Once you’ve scrubbed the entire fireplace, it’s time to rinse away the cleaning solution. Dip a sponge or rag into clean water and wipe down the bricks, removing any excess soap or cleaner. You may need to rinse the rag frequently to ensure you’re not spreading dirt back onto the surface. Make sure to remove all cleaning residues to avoid any leftover streaks or stains.
Step 6: Dry the surface
Finally, use an old towel or a clean cloth to dry the surface. This will help prevent water from seeping into the mortar between the bricks and causing potential damage. Allow the fireplace to air dry completely before lighting a fire. You can also leave the door open for some extra ventilation.
FAQs
How often should I clean my brick fireplace?
It’s a good idea to clean your fireplace at least once a year. If you use it regularly, more frequent cleaning may be necessary to prevent soot buildup and maintain the brick’s appearance.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean the brick fireplace?
While a pressure washer can clean the exterior of a brick fireplace, it’s not recommended for the interior. The high-pressure water may damage the bricks or mortar. Stick to manual cleaning for interior surfaces.
What if the soot stains won't come off?
For stubborn stains, try using a stronger solution, such as a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply it to the stains and let it sit before scrubbing. If stains persist, consider contacting a professional cleaning service.
Do You Need Special Paint for Brick?
Now that you know how to clean a fireplace, there’s no excuses for not getting to work making that old fireplace look new. So what type of paint should you choose?
There are a number of different types of paint you can use depending on the look you’re trying to achieve. We would advise looking into the Brick-Anew brick paint kit to get an idea of which paint you prefer.
