If you’re planning on renovating or restoring an old building, then one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is removing old mortar from bricks. This task can be incredibly tedious and time-consuming, but with the right tools, it can be made much easier. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best brick mortar removal tools available on the market today, as well as some tips and tricks for using them effectively.
Why Remove Old Mortar from Bricks?
Before we dive into the different types of brick mortar removal tools, let’s first take a quick look at why you might need to remove old mortar in the first place. There are several reasons why you might want to do this:
– To repair damaged bricks: If your building has been damaged by weather or other factors, then you may need to replace some of the bricks. To do this, you’ll need to remove the old mortar so that you can insert new bricks.
– To restore an old building: If you’re restoring an old building, then you may want to keep as many original bricks as possible. However, these bricks may have been covered in old mortar which needs to be removed before they can be reused.
– To improve insulation: If your building is poorly insulated, then adding insulation between the bricks can help to reduce heat loss and save energy. However, this will require removing the old mortar first.
Whatever your reason for removing old mortar from bricks, there are plenty of tools available to help make the job easier.
Types of Brick Mortar Removal Tools
There are several different types of brick mortar removal tools available on the market today. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right tool for your specific needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options:
1. Chisels
Chisels are one of the oldest and most traditional brick mortar removal tools. They’re cheap, easy to use, and can be found in almost any hardware store. However, they can also be very time-consuming to use, and require a lot of physical effort.
To use a chisel, simply position it against the old mortar and tap it gently with a hammer. The goal is to break up the old mortar without damaging the surrounding bricks. Once you’ve removed as much mortar as possible with the chisel, you can then switch to a more precise tool for the final cleanup.
2. Angle Grinders
Angle grinders are another popular option for removing old mortar from bricks. They’re fast, efficient, and can remove large amounts of mortar in a short amount of time. However, they can also be quite dangerous if not used properly.
To use an angle grinder for brick mortar removal, you’ll need to attach a diamond blade specifically designed for this purpose. Then, simply hold the grinder at a 45-degree angle to the wall and move it back and forth across the old mortar until it’s been ground down to the desired level.
3. Rotary Hammers
Rotary hammers are powerful tools that combine drilling and hammering action to quickly remove old mortar from bricks. They’re extremely effective but also quite expensive and heavy.
To use a rotary hammer for brick mortar removal, you’ll need to attach a chisel bit specifically designed for this purpose. Then, simply position the bit against the old mortar and turn on the hammer function to break up the material quickly and efficiently.
4. Diamond Blades
Diamond blades are specialized cutting tools that are designed specifically for cutting through tough materials like brick and concrete. They’re highly efficient but also quite expensive.
To use a diamond blade for brick mortar removal, you’ll need to attach it to an angle grinder or other power tool. Then, simply position the blade against the old mortar and cut through it until it’s been removed completely.
Tips for Using Brick Mortar Removal Tools
Now that you know about some of the most popular brick mortar removal tools available, let’s take a look at some tips for using them effectively:
– Always wear protective gear: When using any kind of power tool, it’s important to wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from flying debris.
– Start with the least aggressive tool: If possible, start with the least aggressive brick mortar removal tool first (such as a chisel) and work your way up to more powerful tools if necessary.
– Work in small sections: It’s important to work in small sections when removing old mortar from bricks. This will help to ensure that you don’t damage any surrounding bricks or accidentally remove too much mortar.
– Keep the tool cool: When using power tools like angle grinders or rotary hammers, it’s important to keep them cool by taking regular breaks and allowing them to cool down before continuing work.
– Use a vacuum attachment: To minimize dust and debris while working, consider using a vacuum attachment on your power tool. This will help to keep the area clean and reduce your risk of respiratory issues.
Conclusion
Removing old mortar from bricks can be a challenging and time-consuming task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be made much easier. Whether you choose to use traditional chisels or more advanced power tools like angle grinders or rotary hammers, always remember to prioritize safety and work in small sections. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to successfully removing old mortar from your building and achieving your restoration goals.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortar_(masonry)
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-mortar-from-brick/
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/brickworking/21017347/how-to-remove-mortar-from-brick
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-remove-mortar-from-brick-walls/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901a8f2ab6
