[OT: Home Improvement] rotting brick and range hoods - there's red sand on my stove

[artie67]

Is it veneer brick? Basically thin brick "glued" to drywall. Since you live in an Apartment you can't do much without the landlord being involved.
For "Mexican Clay Tile" used for floors they have sealers to give them a gloss finish and water repellant qualities.
I would check with a local tile store and they will know. Maybe a photo and then discuss with the landlord so that you are covered in the future.