How to Remove Old Plaster From Brick

Remove large chunks of chipping plaster with a mason’s hammer and a broad chisel. Place the blade of the chisel against the edge of the chip, holding the handle at an angle almost flat with the wall. Tap at the handle of the chisel with the hammer. Remove as much of the plaster as possible using this method.

Brush the wall with a sturdy bristle brush. Work the bristles into the joints, brushing firmly to detach loose particles of plaster.

Prepare the area around the brick wall with a solution of hydrochloric acid before removing the remaining plaster. Spray water over any nearby shrubs and plants to help protect them from accidental exposure to the chemical solution. Cover small plants and any nearby bordering grass or other ground covers with sheets of plastic. Tape off any adjoining walls with plastic and masking tape.

Apply the hydrochloric acid to the patches of remaining plaster, following the application instructions the manufacturer provides. Scrub the solution into the plaster with a scrub brush. Rinse the hydrochloric acid off the brick wall with a garden hose. Use a gentle stream of water to avoid spraying the acid and the loosened plaster on nearby structures and plants. Sop up the removed paint particles and rinse off the nearby surfaces to remove all traces of the hydrochloric acid. Let the grout and bricks dry completely before painting or applying a different finish to the bare surfaces.