The Best Ways to Clean a Red Brick Driveway

Prepare the Surface

• Prepare the red brick surface for cleaning by removing any loose debris with a dry brush. Sweeping off loose dirt clinging to the surface enables you to better assess the condition and identify any bricks in need of replacement or repair. Look for any mortar hardened to the surface, and scrape it off with an ice scraper; otherwise the hardened chunks will interfere with the stream of water and cause an uneven cleaning. Always cover lighting and electrical outlets with plastic prior to washing to prevent damage and injury.

Chemical-Free Solutions

• Cleaning solutions are necessary to thoroughly remove grease and oil stains that will otherwise eat away at the bricks. In addition to using a solution that is approved for your power washer or other tools, verify that the solution is chemical free and safe for the environment. Once you wash it off, the solution will run off the driveway and into the yard. Using an environmentally-safe solution protects surrounding growth and prevents hazardous chemicals from seeping into the water system. A few examples of nontoxic solutions include a homemade mix of 1 cup white vinegar to a bucket of water, Enviro-Clean Degreaser and Efflorescence Remover, and Novion Universal Cleaner for concrete and bricks.

Power Wash

• A power washer removes embedded dirt and debris that an ordinary hose cannot. For best results, work in small sections at a time. Position the nozzle about 4 feet from the bricks, and spray in long, straight motions. Start at the top of the driveway so the majority of cleaning solution will flow into the street and not your yard. Go over the entire driveway twice to force off dirt that loosened during the first round.

Remove Efflorescence

• Efflorescence is a technical term that refers to the salts left behind as water in clay bricks evaporates. The salt creates a white chalky look over the surface within a few days after the bricks are laid, which is one reason why you should wait a few weeks after installing bricks before sealing them. To remove efflorescence, mix muriatic acid or another approved cleaner with water. Use more water than instructed to avoid weakening grout joints. Apply the acid, and follow the instructions exactly.