Acid Based Detergent Zinsser® WaterTite® Cleaner Concrete

Apply solution with a brush, roller, pump-up spray or trigger spray bottle from the bottom of the surface up. Let stand for 15-30 minutes, or the time determined during testing. Rinse thoroughly with a high pressure washer or a hose. Thoroughly wash the surface, from top to bottom again to avoid any streaking. Wait until the foaming action stops to remove all remaining product. A hardware store in my area stopped storing muriatic acid. Be careful when pouring the acid, because the fumes are intense and can be painful if inhaled. Dry brush the surface of the brick to remove any loose particles. Dip the brush into the bucket of water and dampen the brick until it’s thoroughly soaked.

Zinsser® WaterTite® Etch and Cleaner for Concrete and Masonry

Watch the full episode: www.thisoldhouse.com/watch/ask-toh-window-gap-solar-drinking-water Ask This Old House mason …Prosoco Sure Klean 600 Detergent 5 gallon – Acid Based Masonry Detergent

You need a certain amount of acid, just a small amount of highly purified, high-grade acid that is harnessed by surfactants and inhibitors and wetting agents. And, because the dyes used on some veneers are water based, they don’t adhere well, even to the surface. So, most contractors turn to acid washes, which are not necessarily the best approach today. This technique prevents streaking on the surface. Depending on the contaminants present, agitate with a nylon brush, if necessary. Available in one gallon and five gallon pails. This product provides an average spread rate of about 200-250 square feet per gallon. This product is a very strong acid that will clean dried cement products off stones, bricks, and other masonry surfaces. Water is used to wet the surface before and after cleaning. Place the containment sock around the bricks being cleaned on top of the tarp to further contain the mess. Dip a second brush into the masonry cleaner mixture, then gently apply the brush to the brick. Repeat this process until the brick is clean.

Fast acting acid based formula (9.5% strength). Let the acid sit for no more than a few minutes, less if you can see the efflorescence lifting. Actually, the process of efflorescence removal discussed above also etchesthe masonry.