Cleaning Bricks.

[oneoone]

Ive stripped back some walls in my old house and need to clean the brick work, is it better to use a Wire cup attachment on my angle grinder or a non when preparation wheel ?
Cheers
Ric

 

[jeds]

I presume the aim is to leave the bricks exposed - i.e. as a natural decorative finish. In which case wouldn't mechanical wire brushing damage the surface - and the appearance? I'd try brick acid first, with a stiff hand brush.

 

[cjard]

wire brushing isn't very abrasive but it can leave discoloration on the surface as the bristles wear - literally metal from them can rub off on the surface. This may or may not be noticeable and may or may not clean off - try on an inconspicuous patch first (like, behind a cupboard)

There are other types of brush materials that can be fitted to grinders/drills that may fare better - a lightly abrasive sponge type of material perhaps. It depends on the current look of the bricks, what theyre made of and the desired look.

Ultimately sand/bead blasting might give the best results - messy, but home kits are available if you want to DIY

 

[oneoone]

Cheers for the reply. I ended up going for a Non-woven preparation wheel and an angle grinder. Worked really and quick too.