Why Professional Brick Cleaning & Sealing Matters in Iowa
When most people think of brick repair, they picture cracked chimneys or bowing walls. But keeping your brickwork clean and sealed is just as important, and often overlooked. In a state like Iowa, where freeze-thaw cycles, spring storms, and summer humidity put constant stress on exterior materials, proper maintenance can make a major difference in how your home ages.
Here’s why professional brick cleaning and sealing should be part of every Des Moines homeowner’s upkeep plan.
1. Weather in Iowa Is Brutal on Masonry
From icy winters to high summer humidity, Iowa’s weather is hard on brick. Moisture gets into the pores of the material, freezes, expands, and causes the surface to flake, a process called spalling. Over time, this weakens your walls and leads to costly repairs.
Professional cleaning removes mold, dirt, and staining. Sealing adds a breathable layer of protection that keeps moisture out while letting trapped vapor escape, essential in areas like Beaverdale and Sherman Hill where older bricks are more vulnerable.
2. Cleaning Restores Appearance Without Damage
Power washing might seem like an easy DIY solution, but it can actually do more harm than good. Too much pressure or the wrong technique can erode mortar, damage brick faces, and force water deeper into the wall.
Professional cleaning uses the right balance of pressure, detergents, and technique to lift stains without weakening the structure. Whether it’s smoke stains from a chimney or mildew on a shaded wall, we can restore the original look safely.
3. Sealing Extends the Life of Brickwork
A good brick sealer does more than make your house look nice. It slows down weather damage, blocks water intrusion, and helps preserve the mortar that holds your wall together. This is especially important in Des Moines neighborhoods with aging homes, like Drake and Waterbury, where older masonry is more porous.
We use breathable sealers that don’t trap moisture—a must in climates like ours, where trapped water can freeze and wreak havoc from the inside out.
4. It’s Cheaper Than Waiting for Repairs
Replacing bricks or rebuilding sections of a damaged wall can get expensive fast. Cleaning and sealing costs less and helps prevent the need for major repairs later. It’s a smart investment that protects both your home’s appearance and structural integrity.
Think of it like maintenance for your roof or HVAC system, it’s easier and cheaper to maintain than to replace.
5. Boosts Curb Appeal and Resale Value
Freshly cleaned and sealed brick simply looks better. Whether you’re staying put or planning to sell, improving the look of your home’s exterior adds curb appeal and marketability.
Prospective buyers in Des Moines notice well-maintained homes, and clean brick sends a message that the property has been cared for. Combined with services like tuckpointing or chimney repair, it shows your home is in top shape.
Don’t Wait Until It’s a Problem
Brick cleaning and sealing may not be as flashy as a new patio or chimney rebuild, but it’s one of the best ways to protect your home. It preserves the look, strengthens the structure, and prevents expensive damage before it starts.
At Des Moines Brickwork Brigade, we offer professional brick cleaning and sealing services tailored to Iowa homes. Reach out today to schedule an inspection or get a quote. Solid maintenance. Real protection. Long-term value.
