Removing Ivy and Other Vegetation from Brick and Stone Walls

Removing Ivy and Other Vegetation from Brick and Stone Walls

Frederick M. Hueston

 

Ivy growing on the side of a home or building ads a unique look, however the tendrils or aerial roots can grow into the brick or stone work causing it to flake and fall apart. If you decide to remove the vegetation from the wall it needs to be done carefully to not further damage the masonry. The following is a procedure that should remove the ivy safely.

 

Before attempting any removal make sure you are wearing the proper personal protective equipment such a glove and googles.

 

Step 1. If there is any living ivy it will need to be killed using a weed remover such as Round Up of similar product. Looking for a product that contains Glyphosate.  Spay the ivy making sure to saturate it. It may take several days for it to complete turn brown. Reapplication may be necessary. Make sure to do this in dry weather to give it time to work.

Step 2. Once all the ivy is dead cut the main trunks with a saw or shears as close to the ground as possible.

Step 3.  Remove as much of the top growth as possible with shears. DO NOT pull the ivy. Pulling can cause additional damage to the brick or stone.

 

Step 4. Once all the top growth is removed scrape the remaining aerial roots with a putty knife. Be careful not to dig the putty knife into the brick or stone. Hold the scarper at a 30 degree angle.

 

Step 5. Remove any remaining aerial roots with a wire brush.

 

Step 6. Rinse the brick and stone with clean water.  You can scrub with a soft scrub brush if desired. DO NOT use a metal brush with water. Use only a nylon brush

Step 7. Clean the brick or stone with a good quality stone cleaner.

Step 8. If repairs are needed than I would call a reputable stone restoration contractor. Repairs are not a DIY project.

 

 

 

I repeat..>DO NOT yank or pull the ivy off the wall. Otherwise you will pull apart the brick or stone.

Difficult aerial roots can be burnt off with a torch.