Soot stained bricks

[Gandalf]

Hi all..

Anyone got ideas of how to clean black soot stained bricks at the back of my fire place?

 

[Moo]

A while ago Gervase made this observation:

Soot and tar will leach through plaster in time - give it a year and you'll have brown stains if you're using lime plaster.
I know it sounds revolting, but the most effective solution is cow crap - painted onto the stained area before plastering it effectively seals the soot and tar yet allows the surface to breathe.

But it sounds as though you want to leave the brick exposed, so you will have to make a much more thorough search through the PPUK archives than I've had time for.

 

[Craig]

I believe a popular solution is to paint them black...

 

[Penners]

the most effective solution is cow crap

Now all you have to do is find a cow that will obligingly reverse into your fireplace and then perform...

 

[inwood]

Have you thought about contacting Strippers of Sudbury http://www.stripperspaintremovers.com/index.htm- give them a call. I know their Klingstrip removes paint and may also work on soot as it draws the offending item into the poultice. I have some left in a tub and need to do the same so I'll give it a go and let you know. Alternatively if you contact them and find out let us know.

 

[inwood]

Alternatively use these suggestions on t'internet:
http://www.ehow.com/how_113267_remove-stains-brick.html
http://seasonal-home-maintenance.suite101.com/article.cfm/fireplaces
http://tips.simplygoodstuff.com/cleaning-fireplace-soot-from-brick-or-stone/