Appearances definitely matter when it comes to your property. Hence, it is important to keep these surfaces clear of unsightly stains. One of the most common staining issues is rust. As those with iron-based structures like fireplaces know too well, rust can quickly affect beautiful brickwork if left untreated.
Rust stains can be frustrating. Whether it’s a charming old home or a modern outdoor space, rust stains can quickly diminish the appeal of your property. Removing rust stains doesn’t have to be difficult or require expensive tools. You just need to find the right approach for yourself. With a little elbow grease and low-cost supplies you likely already have around the house, you can effectively eliminate those pesky stains and restore your brick’s original beauty.
Identifying Rust Stains
Before treating any discoloration, it’s important to verify that it is, in fact, caused by rust. Rust stains on brick have a few telltale characteristics. They are either orange, reddish-brown, or dark brown in color. They also have a texture that is crystalline, flaky, or grainy when examined closely. They are often found occurring in linear patterns from sprinklers. They appear near sources of steel/iron corrosion.
Test to Recognize Rust
You can take a simple test to confirm rust involved in your bricks by applying a small amount of household bleach to the stained area. If bubbles or lightening occurs in the that area, then the pigment contains iron and is rust. Bleach reacts chemically with iron but will not affect other stains like mold or algae growth.
7 Ways You Can Get Rid of Rust Stains
The good news is that basic household items provide effective rust stain removal from brick. With a bit of scrubbing using these gentle solutions, your bricks can be restored. Let’s explore some of the best natural options:
Method 1: The Power of White Vinegar
White vinegar is a handy household product that can work wonders on rust stains. When applied full strength, the acetic acid in vinegar helps break down the iron oxide and dissolve the rust pigment, making it easier to remove.
How to Apply?
- Pour white vinegar generously over the rust stain, ensuring it’s thoroughly soaked.
- Allow the vinegar to sit on the stain for 15-20 minutes, giving the acid time to work its magic.
- Use a stiff-bristled brush to gently scrub the stain.
- The vinegar should have loosened the rust, making it easier to remove.
- Rinse the area with water to remove any vinegar residue and dislodged rust particles.
Method 2: Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemon juice acts similarly to vinegar, but it offers a more natural and effective approach to rust removal. The citric acid present in lemons works to break down rust, lightening the stain.
How to Apply?
- Generously apply lemon juice directly to the rust stain.
- Allow the lemon juice to dwell on the stain for approximately 15 minutes.
- Gently scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush and rinse thoroughly with water to remove the lemon juice and loosened rust.
Method 3: Club Soda
The carbonation in club soda bubbles does all the work by acting as a gentle abrasive, helping to lift and remove rust particles from the brick surface.
How to Apply?
- Fill a spray bottle with club soda and generously mist the rust stain.
- Allow the club soda to sit on the stain for several minutes to allow the carbonation to work.
- Use a cloth or sponge to wipe away the loosened rust and club soda residue.
Method 4: Toothpaste
Believe it or not, toothpaste can be a surprising ally in the battle against rust stains. The abrasive properties of toothpaste help to scrub away rust, while the cleaning agents aid in the removal process.
How to Apply?
- Apply a dollop of toothpaste directly to the rust stain.
- Use an old toothbrush or something similar to gently scrub the toothpaste into the stain.
- Rinse the area with water to remove the toothpaste and dislodged rust.
Method 5: Rubbing Alcohol
This home disinfectant is low in water content and can easily penetrate deeper into the brick’s pores to target and break down rust deposits that vinegar may miss.
How to Apply?
- Saturate the rust stain with rubbing alcohol using a spray bottle.
- Allow the rubbing alcohol to dry completely.
- Use a cloth or sponge to wipe away the loosened rust.
Method 6: Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help lift rust stains from brick surfaces. When combined with water, it forms a paste that can be applied directly to the affected area.
How to Apply?
- Create a paste of mixing baking soda with water to form a thick paste.
- Cover the rust stain with the baking soda paste, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Allow the paste to dry completely, which may take several hours.
- Once it is dry, gently scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with water to remove the baking soda and loosened rust.
Method 7: Commercial Rust Removers
For stubborn or extensive rust stains, commercial rust removers can be a powerful option. These products are specifically designed to break down rust and are often more effective than homemade solutions.
How to Apply?
- Select a rust remover specifically formulated for use on brick.
- Make sure to protect yourself by wearing protective gloves and eyewear when handling the rust remover.
- Carefully read and follow the instructions on the product label.
- Apply the rust remover to the stain and scrub gently with a brush.
- Rinse the area with plenty of water to remove the rust remover and any remaining rust.
Preventing Future Rust Stains on Brick
Preventing rust stains is often easier than removing them. While cleaning up present stains is vital, avoidance is the better option.
Regular Leaning
Keep your brick surfaces clean to prevent rust from settling and forming stains. Seal porous brick surfaces to repel water that could cause rust to bloom.
Metal Protection
Apply rust-resistant coatings or paints to metal objects near your brickwork. Regularly wash external metal chimneys and flues.
Water Management
Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation around your brick surfaces. Redirect any water sprinklers or sprays away from brick walls and patios.
Sealants
Consider applying a brick sealant to create a protective barrier against moisture and stains.
Conclusion
Whether just touching up small spots or tackling an entire wall, you now possess an arsenal of simple yet effective techniques for removing unsightly rust stains from brick surfaces with basic supplies. Follow the guidelines thoroughly for fast cleaning success. By making rust removal part of your routine brick maintenance, unsightly pigmentation need never ruin your outdoor living areas or historic masonry ever again.
