Dark bricks or stone: 1 part acid to 10 parts waterLight: 1 part acid to 15 parts water.Caution: Pour acid slowly into water; never pour water into acid. Apply as directed, allow to stand for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.Scrub using a long-handed, coarse bristled brush.

It usually appears a few weeks after the project has been completed, creating certain anxiety for the homeowners. Before complaining to your contractor though, why not tackle the cleaning project yourself? Use the same muriatic acid solution and long-handled bristled brush that you would to remove mortar stains. Wear a ventilation mask, long sleeves, protective eyewear, and strong, synthetic gloves when applying acid.

Use a solution of 1 part regular household bleach to 3 parts water, with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or trisodium phosphate mixed in.Allow to stand for 15 minutes, then rinse.Repeat, if necessary.