Old and New brick? Can I get the colors any closer?

ram hydro

New member
I did a brick cleaning and mortar tag removal on a old farmhouse that is being updated. The window were replaced with larger windows that required that new brick be added. I did the job for a contractor, he had a guy who did his pressure washing, but the guy became too unreliable. When we discussed the job he requested that I use sure kleen 600, which he had and would supply, before starting the job I researched the product and found it is mostly used on complete new construction. I informed the contractor but he insisted on the use. No problem, I had him sign off that if the sure kleen didn't work to his expectations that I would still be paid. When the job was completed he was satisfied with the mortar tag removal, but was hoping the product would bring the color of the new and old brick closer to a match. (Note: The old brick is from 1951) When I was done he said he would be willing to clean it again if I could find a product that would blend the brick color closer to a match. So here is the questions does anyone have any experience with this and could recommend anything?
Below is before and after cleaning.
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Given the original brick had been there for 62 years do you not think it will be a big ask to try to make the mortar look like 2014. Would it not be a better idea to stain the new mortal to match the old.? Just my 2 cents worth.

 
Great response house wash guy people are expectations are out of this world. When I look down at my big belly I will say when I wake up in the morning I will have the body I had when I was 25 lol.
 
We actually have this question come up pretty often. The process of staining each individual mortar joint is time consuming, but other than that, pretty easy. I usually recommend a very dilute solution of a light colored acid stain. You'll have to do a little experimenting to get the strength and dwell time dialed in, but after that it's as easy as carefully paint it on, wait, neutralize, and rinse. Other stains or dyes could be used too, but aren't as permanent as the old school acids.
 
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