How to Remove Brick Mortar From Painted Steel

Mortar must have exceptional adhesive power to hold together brick structures. That’s a good thing for creating stable, long lasting masonry projects, but it also creates a problem when brick mortar drips, splatters or is smeared onto an adjacent, unprotected surface. As it dries, it gets harder and harder to remove. If mortar has dried on a color-coated metal surface, avoid normal acid removers, which may peel or discolor the paint job.

Razor blade
White distilled vinegar
Pressure washer

Instructions

- 1
  Carefully shave away as much mortar as possible using a razor blade. Hold the blade nearly parallel to the painted surface and take away only thin slivers at a time. Take extreme care to not let the blade touch the painted surface, which may leave scratch marks.
- 2
  Saturate the remaining mortar with water. Allow the mortar to soak in as much water as possible.
- 3
  Soak a sponge or rag generously with white vinegar. Place the sponge or rag on top of the mortar. Leave the rag for several minutes while the vinegar penetrates the mortar. Vinegar is a mild acid that will soften the mortar.
- 4
  Remove the vinegar-soaked rag. Spray the area with a high-pressure washer. Direct the spray at a sharp angle under the dried mortar to dislodge and wash away the remaining bits of mortar. Do not try to use the rag to rub off the mortar; the rubbing motions will cause the loosening mortar bits to scratch the paint.

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