How to remove mortar to recycle bricks?

[ennoh]

I need to use some bricks from an old fence so that can be used to do some brickwork on our house as the same brick is no longer made.   I am finding it really hard going to remove the bricks as the mortar is super strong. 

 

 

Is there any electric tool that can slice through the mortar?

[JacobZ]

Hi @ennoh,

There are methods using power tools such as an angle grinder with a diamond blade or a reciprocating saw with a diamond grit reciprocating saw blade, but they will create airborne dust, which is harmful if inhaled.

If you are aware of this and take the necessary precautions, such as wearing a P2 respirator or better and wetting the mortar to reduce the dust, then it can help to speed things up greatly.

If you use this method, please also be aware that angle grinders and reciprocating saws are loud and they can kick, so wear gloves, long protective clothing, eye protection and hearing protection to protect yourself.

You could also use a hammer drill with a masonry bit to drill out a series of holes in the mortar, then use a hammer and cold chisel to further fracture the mortar and allow for easier removal.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[ennoh]

Thanks Jacob, I've just been down to Bunnings Meilville and bought The Ozito corded hammer drill.  Lachlan the tool guy was super helpful.   I will let you know how I get on.  

[JacobZ]

Hi @ennoh,

I'm glad to hear Lachlan was able to provide you with some fantastic service. I'll let the leadership team at Melville know so they can pass on your feedback.

Jacob

[ennoh]

I have finished reclaiming the bricks and demolishing a small wall.   The Ozito Hammer drill with a chisel was a great help.   For just under $100 it was great value and it removed the need to bang away the bricks with a chisel and mallet.      It was still hard work because the mortar was so strong but my son and I managed to reclaim sufficient bricks for the brickies to use on Monday.

[JacobZ]

That's fantastic to hear @ennoh.

I'm glad to hear you and your son managed to get the job done without too much difficulty.

Thank you for the feedback.

Jacob

[ennoh]

I have dismantled a small wall to provide bricks for the house where a new smaller window is being installed.    I have removed  most of the mortar from the bricks but on some bricks there is what appears to be a thin skim of cement or something.    Is there something I should be doing to clean the ones that have cement or other stains on them?  

[JacobZ]

Hi @ennoh,

The best place to start is soaking them in water overnight and then scrubbing with a stiff brush and some soapy water, as this often can soften and loosen the haziness.

If the haze doesn’t shift, you can step up to a mild acid wash using a proprietary brick cleaner such as Chemtech Brick Tile And Paver Cleaner. Mix the solution following the ratio advised on the packaging, then apply the solution with a brush, let it fizz for a few minutes, scrub, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Ensure you wear protective gloves such as these Ansell Medium Workmates Rubber Gloves while working with this chemical.

For a gentler alternative, straight white vinegar or a 50/50 vinegar-water mix can work on light cement haze, though it would take longer. 

Let me know what you think, and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob