If you have painted brick on your home that you would like to restore to the original finish, you want to do so without using chemicals or damaging the brick and mortar. Sandblasting is likely the best option for you to consider.

To complete this project you will need:

• Sheets of wood
• Paneling nails
• Plastic tarps
• Silica sand abrasive
• Sandblaster – rented if you don't own one
• Respirator, gloves and safety goggles

Prep the Area

Sandblasting can be damaging if you don't take the time to prep the area properly. Vinyl siding, windows, doors and hardware can be damaged if they aren't covered before you begin sandblasting.

Take down shutters, light fixtures and anything else that will get in the way of completing the project with ease.

Cover doors, windows and sided areas with sheets of wood tacked in place with paneling nails. This will provide all of the protection you need throughout the project.

Cover plants, furnishings and décor with tarps to keep the dust and debris from coating them. Lay tarps on the ground to catch the falling paint and sand so that clean-up is easy for you.

Prepare for the Task

Dressing appropriately will help to reduce your chances of getting injured while you work. Wear long pants, a long sleeve shirt, boots and your safety glasses, gloves and respirator. You may even want to wear a hat to keep all of the dust from landing in your hair.

Take the time to read through the instruction manual for the sandblaster. Read through each safety precaution listed to learn what could happen if you don't use the machine properly or if something was to malfunction.

Start Sandblasting

The first step is to perform a complete inspection of the machine. Check that all of the valves are closed so that the silica sand abrasive doesn't leak out after you fill the machine.

Now, put on your respirator, safety goggles and gloves and start up the sandblaster. Set the machine at the lowest setting and point the nozzle at the bricks that you are stripping.

Start on an area that isn't right up front. You want to start in an area that isn't easily see in case you don't get things right the first time. Open the valve and shoot the sand side to side paying close attention to how well the brick is holding up to the treatment. If the brick is chipping, move back a bit and work at a further distance so that the sand isn't hitting the brick with as much force.

Continue working to find the best distance and setting on the machine to remove the paint effectively without damaging the brick and mortar.  

Continue sandblasting until the paint has been removed. Then, remove the wood and tarps, clean up the mess and replace everything that you have removed.

If you don't feel comfortable with this process, you can hire professionals to come and complete it for you. Talk with your local sandblasting expert, like those at APC Services or a similar location, to learn more about the services offered and to get a quote.