How to Make Red Bricks Attractive in a Kitchen

If you have an exposed brick wall in your kitchen, it may appear unattractive because of built up grease and dirt. While you can paint over the brick, cleaning and sealing it helps maintain this architectural element and make it more attractive while protecting it from future damage. Sandblasting or using harsh chemicals do not work on exposed brick, particularly if the brick is old; in fact, this destroys the brick.

Bucket
Dish-washing soap
Hot water
Brass brush
Bottle brush
Grouting supplies (optional)
Brick sealant

Instructions

- 1
  Add hot water to a bucket. If the bricks are exceptionally dirty, add one small squirt of plain, undyed dish-washing soap to the water.
- 2
  Dip the brass brush into the hot water. Start at the top corner of the wall and begin scrubbing. This is a hard brush, but it should not damage the surface of the brick. If the wall is very dirty, you may need to apply a lot of elbow grease. Work one brick at a time and move to the next when the previous one is completely clean. Frequently change out the water so it is always hot.
- 3
  Scrub the grout lines. Use a softer bottle brush to clean between the bricks on the grout line. If the grout is very old, it may not come completely clean. If this happens, add a new, thin covering of grout between the bricks to make it look better.
- 4
  Repeat the cleaning if necessary. Depending on the age and condition of the bricks, you may need to repeat the scrubbing process to completely remove old dirt and grease.
- 5
  Apply a brick sealant over the bricks once they have completely dried. You can use a regular paintbrush. Start at the top corner and work throughout the wall.

Decorating Ideas for Filling Up Wall Space

How Much Does the Lightweight Drywall Weigh?

Home Design