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How to Remove Oxidized Ivy Suckers on Brick

While ivy-covered brick can be aesthetically pleasing, the little suckers that attach to the wall, particularly with Boston ivy, can be a nuisance. If you decide to remove the ivy, simply pulling the ivy suckers from the brick can damage the structure. If the ivy dies from natural causes, the vines dry out and the suckers rot. These rotten suckers then oxidize and stain your brick. Once the suckers have oxidized, removal is a difficult, time-consuming project.

Things You'll Need

  • Safety goggles
  • Gloves
  • Dust mask
  • Wire brush
  • Drill with a brush attachment
  • Heavy duty paint stripper
  • Pressure washer or neutralizing agent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Don your protective apparel: safety goggles, gloves and a dust mask.

    • 2

      Scrub the oxidized ivy suckers with a wire brush. This will take care of the most easily removed particles.

    • 3

      Attach a brush attachment to a drill and lock it in place. Scrub the ivy suckers with this brush attachment.

    • 4

      Apply a heavy-duty paint stripper formulated for brick. Application instructions vary depending on the brand, so follow your product’s instructions. Leave the stripper on the affected brick for up to 24 hours. Remove the stripper with a pressure washer or neutralizing agent, depending on your product.