Tips on removing cement from interior wall after removing fireplace Re-generate an old or tired space and give it a fresh breath of life. Click here for answers, information and tips

[corum_uk]

Hi,

I've recently removed an old brick false fireplace and have been left with patches of cement stuck to the wall.

Can anyone offer some advice on the best way to remove the cement.

A photo is here for reference[img]https://www.dropbox.com/s/sobqvy2o0wedvjn/IMG_20160514_200102.jpg?dl=0[/img]

Thanks.

[welsh brickie]

you can buy a brick acid from your local builders merchants.

[corum_uk]

Thanks for the tip. Having looked around a bit I can see that 10% hydrochloric acid is a typical concentration for brick acid, but proper muriatic acid is much stronger at 38.5% (but much harder to find).

Would the 10% strength solution be sufficient do you think? Also I note one site that warns against using muriatic acid indoors due to the corrosive effect it can have on metal/electrics nearby and due to the toxic vapours etc. Do you have experience of successfully using it indoors to remove cement from plaster?

Thanks.

[welsh brickie]

the room must be well ventilated, and use a mask , gloves and googles
Just use normal acid and apply, wait 5 minutes then wash the material with water.
It may take a few applications, Don't use muriatic acid its too strong.

[corum_uk]

Ok thanks for your advice, I'll give it a try.