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In this blog post, we will go over 4 easy ways on how to remove expanding foam from brickwork and keep your property looking beautiful!
Expanding foam is great insulation that seals cracks in the brickwork. It also provides an airtight seal that keeps moisture from seeping into your home or business. However, when it comes time to remove the expanding foam, you might find yourself wondering how to get rid of it without damaging your brickwork.
How to Remove Expanding Foam from Brickwork
Way 1: Use a Hair Dryer
One way to remove expanding foam from brickwork is by using a hairdryer. This method works best on small areas of the surface and when you only need to soften the foam, not cause it to completely fall off.
Begin by heating up your hair dryer’s hot air with the highest setting possible for several minutes before aiming it at the foam. This will heat up the entire surface that is covered with expanding foam, which can cause it to become soft and easier to remove without causing damage . Be careful not to overheat the area since you do not want brickwork or mortar to be damaged beyond repair.
It might take a few tries for this method depending on how much of the wall needs removal, but once you notice some of it peeling off by itself release your finger from heating up the hairdryer and focus on removing any excess pieces left behind. Once finished, wipe down all areas in order to get rid of leftover dirt and debris before allowing ample time for them to dry out completely.
Way 2: Use an Exterior-Grade Cleaning Chemical
Another way to remove expanding foam from brickwork is by using an exterior-grade cleaning chemical. This method works best on large areas of the surface and when you want to totally strip all of the expanding foam away without causing damage.
Begin by mixing up your chosen chemical in a bucket according to their instructions before applying it onto the area that needs removal. Make sure not to get any of it on yourself, but since most chemicals are non-flammable they should be relatively safe for use around children and pets if necessary.
Allow plenty of time for this solution to work its magic into removing all traces of expanding foam while wearing gloves and eye protection at all times until finished. Once done, rinse off with clean water immediately after application before allowing ample time for the surface to dry out completely.
Way 3: Use a Pressure Washer
The final way to remove expanding foam from brickwork is by using a pressure washer. This method works best on medium to large areas of the surface and when you want to totally strip all of the expanding foam away without causing damage. Begin by attaching your pressure washer’s wand onto the unit before adjusting it to its highest pressure setting possible.
Aim the nozzle at the area that needs removal and hold it there while squeezing the trigger until all of the foam has been blasted away. Be careful not to get too close or else you might cause more damage than necessary, but with enough force, most of the foam should come off quite easily. Rinse off any remaining residue with clean water before allowing ample time for the surface to dry out completely.
Way 4: Use a Steam Cleaner
The final way to remove expanding foam from brickwork is by using a steam cleaner. This method works best on small areas of the surface and when you only need to soften the foam, not cause it to completely fall off. Begin by heating up your steam cleaner’s boiler with the highest setting possible for several minutes before aiming it at the foam.
This will heat up the entire surface that is covered with expanding foam, which can cause it to become soft and easier to remove without causing damage. Be careful not to overheat the area since you do not want brickwork or mortar to be damaged beyond repair.
It might take a few tries for this method depending on how much of the wall needs removal, but once you notice some of it peeling off by itself release your finger from heating up the steam cleaner and focus on removing any excess pieces left behind. Once finished, wipe down all areas in order to get rid of leftover dirt and debris before allowing ample time for them to dry out completely.
Once you have removed all traces of expanding foam from brickwork using one (or a combination) of these methods, be sure to give the surface plenty of time to dry out completely before applying any paint or sealant. Expanding foam can often contain harmful chemicals that might cause damage if not cleaned properly, so take your time and do it right in order to avoid further problems in the future.
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