How to Remove Sandtex/Masonary Paint from Brickwork

[Wonderous]

Hi, I have just moved house and have an old brick fireplace which has been painted in some sort of masonary paint/Sandtex. I want to strip it back to the original brick but am really struggling. I have tried B & Q paint stripper and Nitromors (the extra strong variety) and it barely touches it. I am also using a drill with the wire brush end on to try and remove the paint but it's not easy to say the least and I may be here this time next year if I don't find a solution. Does anyone have any ideas to get rid of the paint please? Help!!

[The Builder]

That's right, Wonderous. Rent a powerwasher with a sandblasting attachment.
Messy, but very quick and easy.

[theshedman]

Hi, I know you say you have used Nitromors but did you use the one made for removing textured paint. They make one especially for removing this type of paint. Not sure if it would stain the brickwork though as I have only ever used it on stuff that was getting repainted.