How to Seal a Brick Wall  4.7/5 (7)

There is no text provided to rephrase. Please provide a suitable text.

Update – How to Seal a Brick Wall

In this updated article, we explain How to Seal a Brick Wall. If you have encountered any issues and have any suggestions or have any questions, please comment below.

There are just as many different types of bricks as there are uses for it in construction. Most commonly, bricks are used in exterior home construction. For example, an entire house may be brick or just part of the house for added curb appeal. Brick can also be used for pillars or columns, mailbox structures, a chimney, or a retaining wall. In most exterior brick applications, it is recommended to seal the brick to protect it from water damage, efflorescence, fading, mold/mildew, dirt, grime, and other contaminants that can be harmful or take away from the brick’s appeal. For interior brick walls, sealing is also beneficial to the brick and will enhance its natural beauty.

To seal a brick wall, you first need to wash it. In areas surrounded by landscaping, be sure to cover and protect any shrubbery that may be harmed. Use a quality brick and masonry cleaner according to the directions. Be sure to wear protective gloves and safety glasses.

Apply the cleaner and use a stiff brush or pressure washer to agitate and break loose the unwanted contaminants. Use a rust remover where any irrigation rust or other rust stains may be present. Interior brick walls are best cleaned with a safe cleaning solution and a scrub brush. Wipe the wall clean using cloths or towels if rinsing with water is not feasible. Once all the stains are gone from an exterior wall, rinse the brick wall well with plenty of water. Let the brick wall dry for a minimum of 24 hours after cleaning.

Brick sealers come in many different finishes. A matte finish will seal the brick and make it water repellent without altering its appearance while a gloss finish will give the brick a more “wet” look while providing protection and water repellency.

Once deciding on a quality masonry and brick wall sealer, and the brick wall is thoroughly dry, protect surfaces below the brick with plastic or a drop cloth. Use a brush, roller, or quality sprayer and starting at the top and working down, apply a coat of sealer to each brick. Be sure to coat the mortar joints as well. Remove any excess drips or runs with a brush or roller.

Apply a second brick sealer coat if necessary allowing the suggested drying time between coats. Once the final coat of brick sealer has been applied, let the brick wall dry according to the manufacturer’s suggestions.

Sealing a brick wall with a brick sealant is important to its longevity. Unwanted water and moisture can severely damage brick and cause crumbling of the mortar joints. Protect your investment with a quality brick wall sealer and have peace of mind that your brick structure will last for many years to come.

Scott Paul ~ Restoring Concrete Since 1993 Owner

As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993, he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash, specializing in exterior pressure washing and concrete/brick paver sealing. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter, concentrating more on exterior wood and concrete/paver restoration. Scott and his Pressure Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 projects in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the concrete and brick pavers restoration industry and has contributed to numerous forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold online and in retail stores, allowing consumers to choose their means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites sell many of the top brands he endorses, and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered, feel free to purchase from one of them.

See Full Bio

Concrete Restoration and Maintenance Concrete Coatings