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Q. I own a brick home and have some old paint on the surface that I would like to remove. Can I use a power washer?
A. No. A power washer is only to wash and prep your home for painting, it is not meant to remove paint. In fact, the pressure from the spray, if held in one spot for an extended length of time, could dislodge the mortar between your bricks.
Depending on the type of paint, I recommend applying a paint thinner to the area. Let the solution soak for a bit and then try scrubbing it off with a bristle brush. If this doesn’t work, try using Trisodium Phosphate (TSP). You can purchase TSP at any local paint or hardware store. TSP is a very powerful solution, so make sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear when using it.
When doing your own home repairs, it is good to know the limits of your repair skills. When you feel you have reached your limit, in the best interest of the project and your wallet call a professional.
