Muriatic acid is a less-pure form of Hydrochloric acid (HCl) that is commonly used in home remodeling and renovation projects as a multipurpose substance to remove mold from masonry, concrete, metal, and swimming pools. Although it is available at any local home improvement store for as low as $10 a gallon, it is not a material you should be using without considerable thought and research.
Continue reading to learn more about muriatic acid, including the vital safety tips you need to know.
Muriatic acid, although readily available over the counter, should never be a first resort for your home maintenance or remodeling needs. In fact, it should never be a second, third, or fourth resort. Muriatic acid is incredible caustic, making it very dangerous to humans, pets, property, and the surrounding environment.
Not only is it capable of corroding plastics, metals, fabrics, and clothing, it poses several health risks. Muriatic acid usually comes in high concentrations. Upon exposure, it can cause several second and third degree burns to the skin, nose, and throat; it can also cause temporary or permanent blindness if it gets in the eyes.
Vital Safety Tips for Use
If you plan on using muriatic acid, be sure you are well-informed of the dangers and risks it poses to you and your surroundings, and retain all the proper supplies necessary to protect yourself during the job. Here are some of the most important safety tips you should always implement when using muriatic acid:
❕ Always wear a full set of protective gear, including acid-resistant gloves, full face mask, eye goggles, full-coverage clothing, and work boots.
❕ Never mix muriatic acid with other acids or chemical solutions.
❕ Always be sure to properly dilute muriatic acid with water. The variations will depend on your project, but the general rule of thumb is 1 part muriatic acid to 10 parts water.
❕ When diluting muriatic acid, you must always pour the acid into the water; never the other way around. If you pour water into the acid, it can cause an exothermic reaction, which will project the acid out of the container.
❕ Always store muriatic acid in its own container until you are ready to pour it into water. It should never be poured into a container by itself. Be sure to use a glass or acid-resistant plastic container when you are mixing your solution.
❕ When using muriatic acid, be sure to have some baking soda or garden lime near you in case you need to neutralize it suddenly. Also be sure to have access to clean water in the case of skin or eye exposure.
❕ Contact a local recycling center to learn how to properly dispose of muriatic acid.