How to Remove Soot from a Brick or Stone Fireplace
The enjoyment of a fireplace can be dampened when black sooty buildup causes unsightly discoloration on the bricks or stones. Many different situations can cause soot and smoke to billow out of the fireplace. Over time, a dingy coating gradually thickens on the masonry until there are black stains in and/or around the fireplace. Many homeowners have lived with the ugly sight for years because they don’t think they have a choice. Cleaning off the black stains is not an impossible task, however. In fact, it can be relatively easy, if you have the right tools for the job and strength for serious scrubbing.
Tips for cleaning soot and smoke from a fireplace
When cleaning your fireplace, you’re exposed to soot that can irritate your skin and your lungs. This is just one of numerous reasons it’s best to leave fireplace cleaning and maintenance to professionals like the experts at Hudson Valley Chimney. It’s recommended that you wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a face mask of some kind, for safety’s sake.
There are a few things to do before scrubbing off soot from your fireplace masonry. If the ashes in the fireplace are completely cooled, you can start the dirty task. First, remove all of the ashes with the proper tools and equipment. Always remember that ashes are potentially very dangerous and can start fires, if not handled properly. After ashes have been removed, sweep out the firebox and, for a final touch, use a brush attachment on your vacuum.
If you’re scrubbing inside the fireplace, you may want to use some type of cushioned kneeling board, though a folded towel can help keep pressure off your knees during the task.
Cleaning formulas to remove soot and smoke residue
Harsh chemical cleaners are available, but they are generally considered dangerous and unnecessary options. There are some old-fashioned formulas below for removing smoke and soot residue from your fireplace. Each of the following approaches to cleaning off soot include using a stiff brush to scrub off the blackened stains. These techniques rely on good ole’ elbow grease to get the job done:
· 1st Formula: Create a thick mixture using detergent or soap, pumice, hot water, and a small amount of ammonia. Apply the mixture to the stained surface and let it dry. Next, rub off the mixture with a web scrub brush to remove the sooty mess.
· 2nd Formula: Mix one ounce of table salt, one ounce of soap, and enough water to create a cream mixture. Use a cloth to rub the mixture onto the stained masonry. Next, let the mixture dry for a minimum of 10 minutes. Finally, scrub with a stuff brush.
· 3rd Formula: Get a bar of naptha soap and shave it into a pot. Add three quarts of water and place it on the stove. Bring the mixture to a full boil. After the soap completely melts, turn off the stove and allow the mixture to cool. Add one pound of pumice and a cup of ammonia. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly. Apply the mix to the stained surfaces and leave it there for at least one hour. Use a stiff bristle brush to rub it off.
No matter which formula you used, rinse off the masonry and rinse away the gook with warm water. Apply a detergent to the surface and scrub and then give it a final warm-water rinse. Your fireplace should be free of the glaring black soot stains.
Contact Hudson Valley Chimney
You can also find additional formulas for cleaning soot from your fireplace by doing a simple online search. To avoid dealing with this messy chore, leave it to the professionals at Hudson Valley Chimney. Contact our friendly experts today for cleaning, maintenance, and repair of your chimney and fireplace or wood stove.
