Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - removing plaster off brick
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03-08-01, 09:12 AM
I am trying to remove plaster from brick without completely destroying the brick face. A hammer and chisel has gotten most of it off and I tried muriatic to get the rest but to no avail. Any suggestions??
2000
03-10-01, 03:49 PM
Heavier accumulations: saturate the plaster with water plus acetic (vinegar) in the ratio 100:20 respectively. One way: a blanket hung against the surface to act as a wick and a vessel of water below. Another: wallpaper steamer. Afterward use inert tools for removal (an assortment of store bought or home made plastic scrapers, cleaning pads, and brushes).
Your comment about muriatic acid not working indicates gypsum plaster.
Final traces of calcium sulfate: the main choices are paste versions of potassium hydroxide paint strippers, and efflorescence or white scum treatment products.
The stripper requires a long dwell time. It's a caustic base and should be neutralized with an acid wash (vinegar). 606-606X paint remover from Diedrich Technologies, Inc. Phone: 800-323-3565, is potassium based.
In the masonry chemicals line: a few efflorescence treatment products attack sulfates. White scum removers are made for dealing with sulfates. Being liquids either may create use problems. Undoubtedly multiple applications and heavy scrubbing will be necessary.
Your comment about muriatic acid not working indicates gypsum plaster.
Final traces of calcium sulfate: the main choices are paste versions of potassium hydroxide paint strippers, and efflorescence or white scum treatment products.
The stripper requires a long dwell time. It's a caustic base and should be neutralized with an acid wash (vinegar). 606-606X paint remover from Diedrich Technologies, Inc. Phone: 800-323-3565, is potassium based.
In the masonry chemicals line: a few efflorescence treatment products attack sulfates. White scum removers are made for dealing with sulfates. Being liquids either may create use problems. Undoubtedly multiple applications and heavy scrubbing will be necessary.