Pressure Washing
Summertime means spending more time outdoors by the barbecues and pools. Have you noticed stains, algae, or drab looking stonework and walkways? If so, now is the best time for pressure washing and sealing. You will want to choose a company with industrial grade washers and the proper tips to address different types of surfaces. Hiring an inexperienced company or attempting to do it yourself could lead to damages. The most common damages are scarring of limestone, stucco, and splintering wood. These surfaces are best cleaned by soft washing which is a gentle technique using low pressure.
Commercial grade pressure washers can perform up to 4,000 PSI, and knowing how to use them can save costly damages and replacements. The cleaning process involves applying solutions, allowing dwell time, and then power washing with smooth and even strokes. The best mark of an experienced cleaner is no mark at all!
Sealing
Why are sealers important? First, they can protect and prevent stone from mold and algae. Second, they can protect surfaces surrounding pools and near sprinklers from flaking and expanding due to chlorine or salt. There are many sealer choices available depending on the desired appearance. The two most common are a penetrating topical and a regular penetrating. Topical sealer is used for slate and sandstone. It has enhancers available for deeper, richer color. Regular sealer is used for concrete and limestone and it does not change the look of the stone. Some sealers can have densifiers added that help prevent chalking and flaking. Finally, sealers cannot be applied until stone is dry and there is no rain in the forecast for 48 hours. Durable sealers will be guaranteed for an average of three years.
If you still have questions or would like an evaluation, call Paneless certified specialists at (214) 662-2300.