Cleaning the exterior facades is one way to
bring new life to the appearance of a building. There are also functional
reasons for cleaning, particularly masonry surfaces. Dirt on bricks
or stone when combined with water will accelerate masonry deterioration.
Cleaning should always be done in the least abrasive manner possible.
Improper cleaning and paint removal can also result in the acceleration
of the deterioration of the exterior material.
Guidelines:
- Water or steam cleaning is usually the safest
method by which to clean buildings. A low-pressure water or steam method,
when accompanied by manual scrubbing and a mild cleanser, will cause
the least damage.
- Paint may be removed with water-rinsable alkali
and solvent-based chemicals applied by brush and removed with medium
water pressure or steam spray. Ascertain chemical reaction of paint
removal or material surfaces before proceeding. Comply with applicable
OSHA and EPA requirements.
- If a brick façade was originally painted,
a soft brick was probably used in construction. These surfaces should
remain painted.
- Avoid cleaning or paint removal by blasting
with sand, grit, chips, shells, beads or other abrasive substances.
Blasting will erode surfaces and remove details and may accelerate the
deterioration of the fabric.
- Avoid using chemicals which adversely affect
the building fabric.
- Avoid wet cleaning when frost is expected.
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