Bricks

BRICKS

To remove stains from bricks or stones, rub the stained surface with another brick or stone of the same type. A broken brick or stone is ideal for the item doing the rubbing.

Brickwork's overall appearance can be rejuvenated by simply replacing a shallow depth of the mortar.

For pointing brickwork, a sand and lime mixture of mortar is well worth considering. Sand and cement mixes are more hardwearing but do not allow movement in the brickwork, so that bricks crack first, creating a bigger repair task.

A very efficient board on which to mix and carry cement when laying bricks can be created using hardboard screwed to wooden battens.

Brick and stone floors are easily cleaned by brushing and washing with diluted detergent. Even a low concentration of detergent will be very effective.

Fresh oil stains on bricks in paths can be removed using cat litter. Spread the cat litter on the oil, let the oil soak into it then brush the cat litter away.