An easy solution is to let the mortar dry and at the end of the project clean the mortar off the wall with muriatic acid.
Cleaning stone fireplace with muriatic acid.
Using a pump up sprayer spray a small area no larger than 3 x 3.
These fireplaces also can accumulate soot dust and burn marks.
The stones absorb heat from the fire and radiate it into the room and they can remain hot for some time after the fire is out.
Prepare a diluted solution of your acid based cleaner.
Our tutorial on how to clean and prep a stone patio is also super helpful.
Dip a second brush into the masonry cleaner mixture then gently apply the brush to the brick.
Rinse the stone with water and you re done.
This will totally neutralize the muriatic acid.
Masonry projects that use cement products like mortar concrete and grout can be messy muriatic acid is a sure way to clean masonry surfaces this product is a very strong acid that will clean dried cement products off stones bricks and other masonry surfaces.
If etching or discoloration occurs discontinue use.
Let the solution dwell for five minutes.
Removing efflorescence from stone walls takes a bit of effort and this a good method for anyone with stubborn salt deposits.
Fill an eyedropper with the mixture and apply one to two drops to the stone.
Before cleaning your stone with the muriatic acid test it on an inconspicuous area.
It s important to pour the masonry cleaner into the water instead of the other way around to prevent any burns from the acid.
Never use muriatic acid on stone or masonry.
Avoid uneven or prolonged contact because etching uneven cleaning or streaking can result.
You can beautify and brighten a stone fireplace and add some protection to the stone and mortar by cleaning and sealing it.
Dunk a clean soft sponge in the remaining tsp solution then apply it to the entire fireplace surround making sure to wet both the stone and the grout.
If you try cleaning off the mortar while it is still wet it just smears on the stones.