Eco-Acid Brick Cleaning in Brighton

Yes, for fresh mortar smear. A 1:20 dilution with controlled dwell time and agitation lifts fresh mortar smear as effectively as standard 1:10 strength. The longer contact time and mechanical agitation do the work — acid strength is secondary. Older or hardened mortar may need slightly stronger dilution, but most post-build cleaning works well at eco-strength.

All runoff is captured in secondary containment at the site. Once captured, it is neutralised with bicarbonate (raising pH to neutral), tested to confirm neutralisation, and then disposed of responsibly — either on-site through controlled infiltration or by a licensed waste water contractor. No acid enters stormwater or soil.

We use pH testing strips or meters to confirm waste water is neutral (pH 6–8) before disposal. Testing results are documented and provided to you. This confirms the acid has been fully neutralised and the waste water is safe for the environment.

Eco-acid cleaning involves extra steps: capture systems, neutralisation and waste water testing. Those steps are included in the written fixed price we quote for your job, so you see the full cost before we start.

Yes, with a lower dilution and mandatory test panel. We would use 1:40 dilution (even lower than standard eco-acid) and inspect the test panel carefully for any iron reaction. If the brick shows sensitivity, we switch to soft-wash chemistry entirely.

Eco-acid still uses hydrochloric acid but at lower strength with containment. Soft-wash uses no acid — just detergent and enzyme chemistry. Eco-acid is faster and better for fresh mortar smear. Soft-wash is safer for sensitive brick and causes zero acid environmental load, but takes longer and works better on organic growth than cement smear.

Heritage brick in inner Melbourne often uses lime mortar that cannot tolerate acid, even at eco-strength. We recommend soft-wash detergent instead. If the heritage brick is lime mortar, acid of any strength is not recommended — soft-wash only.

Yes. We provide a report documenting the runoff capture method, neutralisation process, pH testing results before disposal and confirmation of responsible waste management. This is useful if you want to demonstrate environmental due diligence for your property.