Toolboxes: Restoration
“How smart you are is an accident at birth, how educated you are is a choice.” – Lynn Peden
Products to have in your Restoration Toolbox
OneRestore®: Restores virtually everything. Removes red clay and mud buildup, rust, hard water stains, and more.
Cleansol BC: Oxidation remover and general purpose cleaner for EFIS, stucco, wood, vinyl, and painted surfaces. Alkaline.
Heritage Restorer: For sensitive substrates. Sandstone, limestone, marble, granite, polished and unpolished stone.
HD Britenol: Maintenance cleaner for many surfaces, including polished granite, marble, wood, vinyl, pavers, and composite decking.
ABF Restoration: For glazed brick and terra cotta; safer than HF.
Smoke Melt: Removes heavy soil deposits from metal, wood, or masonry at high dilutions, strip latex and enamel paint, and softens heavy black smoke.
Polished Stone Cleaner: Cleans polished stone, granite, and marble.
A.R.T.: Used to treat anodized aluminum after OneRestore®.
Alkaline Stone Cleaner: Removes lichen.
Restoration 101
Restoration pressure washing is an essential service for maintaining and preserving the integrity of various surfaces, particularly in outdoor environments. Over time, dirt, grime, mold, mildew, algae, and other contaminants can accumulate on surfaces like concrete, wood, brick, and stone, causing discoloration, damage, and deterioration. Restoration pressure washing utilizes specialized cleaning solutions to effectively remove these substances, restoring the appearance and functionality of surfaces. This process also extends the lifespan of exterior materials by preventing the growth of harmful substances that can break down surfaces over time.
In addition to improving aesthetics, restoration pressure washing has significant protective benefits. By removing organic growth like mold and algae, it helps prevent further damage such as rot, staining, and corrosion. For example, mold and mildew can weaken wood, while algae can cause concrete to degrade, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Restorative pressure washing can also eliminate hazardous slip hazards caused by moss or algae on walkways, driveways, and decks, improving safety for both homeowners and businesses.
Introduction to Restoration Products
OneRestore®
OneRestore® provides remarkable versatility, cleaning power, and safety all in one. It is appropriate for single or multiple surface restoration. It is capable of removing the deepest stains. It can also be used to safely remove deposits on glass and anodized aluminum. OneRestore® is a great choice for cleaning and restoring college campuses, government facilities, hospitals, and office buildings.
OneRestore® removes …
- Atmospheric staining
- Paint wash
- Concrete leaching
- Caulk bleed
- Mineral stains
- Water hardness
Advantages of OneRestore®
- Excellent for removing virtually all stains, including mineral oxide stains, environmental pollution stains, and rust.
- Spray-on/rinse-off application process improves productivity. No scrubbing required.
- Restoration using one product simplifies the process and reduces protection requirements.
- No harm to plants from rinsed product when used as directed.
- Safe on glass and anodized aluminum when used as directed.
- Ideal for deep stain removal from porous substrates.
- Safe for non-colored horizontal concrete, such as driveways and sidewalks.
- Biodegradable unpolished natural stone and cast stone. (see complete list under suitable substrates)
- For use on vertical and horizontal surfaces.
- Effective way to remove large scale efflorescence.
- Biodegradable
- Top-down application allows more product coverage on lower elevations.
Limitations of OneRestore®
- Do not allow product to dry on the surface. Always rinse thoroughly.
- Do not use on polished stone or oxide films used for tinting glass or self-cleaning glass.
- Not suitable for certain low-fire tiles when using extended dwell times.
- Not recommended for colored horizontal surfaces.
- Do not allow to puddle and dwell on horizontal surfaces.
- Do not use on galvanized metal.
Surfaces Safely Used On
Brick, Limestone, Concrete, Precast, Exposed Aggregate, Granite, Unpolished Marble, Synthetic Stone, Terrazzo, Anodized Aluminum, EIFS, Uncoated Stainless Steel, Stucco, Glass
Stain Removal
OneRestore® can remove a multitude of stains including:
vanadium, manganese, mineral oxide stains, pollution stains, concrete leaching, caulk bleed, hard water stains on glass, sealer overspray on glass, sealant stains, fresh tar stains
How to Apply OneRestore®
Dilutions
OneRestore® is always used undiluted.
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates with OneRestore® will vary from 75-250 sq. ft. per gallon depending on the surface porosity, texture, ambient temperature, craftsmanship, and severity of staining.
Application Instructions
- Pre-wet the surface (do not saturate) with water before applying OneRestore®.
- For the best results, apply OneRestore® with a low-pressure sprayer (brushing is not necessary).
- For most instances, a single application with a 5-to-10-minute dwell time will remove many of the stains.
- For deeper stains or very porous surfaces, a double application with 5 to 10 minutes in between applications will provide the best results. Do not rinse between applications.
Rinsing
Proper rinsing techniques determine the final look and quality of the job. A thorough rinse job is always recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding the surface. OneRestore® can be rinsed using cold water. Pressures that mark the surface should be avoided. When in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrates.
Do not use a zero-degree nozzle
Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on a surface.
As a professional-grade window and multi-surface restoration product, OneRestore® contains a high level of proprietary components that include solvents, acids and soaps. This blend enables it to perform in situations that require industrial-strength cleaning capabilities. As with any powerful restoration product, care must be taken to use it as directed.
Since OneRestore® is a water-based product, the water portion of the blend will evaporate quickly on hot surfaces. This will leave the highly concentrated chemical behind.
OneRestore®’s high concentration of soaps must be thoroughly rinsed with water from any surface it is used upon. It is not designed to be wiped or squeegee-ed off the surface without a water rinse.
The unpolished marble on the front of this Ridgewood Savings Bank location was cleaned with OneRestore®.
Principle Points Regarding OneRestore®
- OneRestore® ships and is considered non-hazardous/non-corrosive in its concentrated form. That is, it does not damage glass, paint, skin, or other substrates undiluted.
- Chlorine, the principal engine of OneRestore®, it is present in all water that is treated for consumption in the U.S.A.
- Neutralization has not been left to chance in this instance. OneRestore® is acidic and once you have applied the product to alkaline materials such as (limestone, mortar, aggregate, etc…), the two run over each other creating neutralization before the chemical runs off. Cleansol BC is used as a second step prior to rinsing to assure neutralization of any remaining residues.
Recommended Disposal of Spent Product
OneRestore®’s DOT shipping classification is non-hazardous liquid, not regulated by the DOT. The product does not contain any known hazardous ingredients that would be rejected or deemed inappropriate in its waste stream by a municipal sanitary treatment plant. Prior tests have shown this product can have a neutral pH after use on a masonry surface followed by the subsequent rinse.
If the product is not neutral, test spent liquid with either pH strips or a pH meter to determine the pH. We recommend neutralization with natrium perborate monohydrate, which may be available locally or can be purchased from EaCo Chem Inc. If the spent OneRestore® product has been collected, the next step should be to dispose of it to a sanitary sewer outlet.
It may be appropriate to check with the sanitary treatment plant in question if prior approval is desirable. (The SDS for OneRestore® can be used to indicate the hazards present in the product when contracting the water treatment plant to make this prior determination.)
Cleansol BC
Cleansol BC is an all-purpose alkaline cleaner designed to deep clean virtually all surfaces from painted metal to wood to vinyl. It is an exceptional brushless cleaner for the industrial cleaning professionals. For a complete house wash system, Cleansol BC works phenomenal in tandem with HD Britenol.
Crews use Cleansol BC to remove environmental stains from the Allguard coating on the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C.
Advantages of Cleansol BC
- Brushless application
- Biodegradable
- Super-fast rinsing
- Spot-free drying
- Safe on paint and glass
Limitations of Cleansol BC
- Does not remove deep black stains (use HD Britenol)
- Polished aluminum could be whitened or browned (use HD Britenol)
- Works equally well in hot or cold temperatures, but should not exceed 120° Fahrenheit
- Caution: Do not use or put Cleansol BC on unpainted metal surfaces
Surfaces Safely Used On
Painted Siding, Vinyl Siding, Vinyl Awnings, Gutters, Glass, Down Spouts, Stucco, Wood, EIFS, Masonry Surfaces
How to Apply Cleansol BC
Dilutions
First, dilute Cleansol BC 4 parts water to 1 part Cleansol BC to make ready to use then follow the dilution ranges listed below.
- 10 parts water to 1 part Cleansol BC for difficult cleaning
- 20 parts water to 1 part Cleansol BC for light soil
- Undiluted for gutters and down spouts
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates with Cleansol BC will vary from 100-250 sq. ft. per gallon depending on the surface porosity, texture, ambient temperature, craftsmanship, and severity of staining.
Application Instructions
- Pre-wet the surface (do not saturate) with water before applying Cleansol BC.
- For best brushless results, apply Cleansol BS with a pressure washer – upstream or downstream, or with a low-pressure applicator.
- Cleansol BC requires two quick applications, which leads to complete soil release most of the time. Do not rinse between applications.
Caution: Do not use or put Cleansol BC on unpainted metal surfaces.
Rinsing
For brushless results, rinsing requires pressure washer impact. Proper rinsing techniques determine the final look and quality of the job. A thorough rinse job is always recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding the surface. Pressures that mark the surface should be avoided. When in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrates.
Do not use a zero-degree nozzle.
Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on a surface.
The oxidation on this vinyl fence was easily removed with Cleansol BC diluted 4:1.
Heritage Restorer
Heritage Restorer is a restoration detergent designed for historical or sensitive substrates. The product is based on our thoroughly developed non-corrosive technology. Cleaning power is achieved by a combination of over 25% surfactants, mild acids to melt metal and mineral oxide residue, and water-based solvents for hydrocarbon-based residues.
Crews use Heritage Restorer on the tyndall limestone at Edmonton City Hall in Canada.
Advantages of Heritage Restorer
- Excellent for removing virtually all stains, including mineral and metal oxide stains.
- Reduces liability.
- Low odor means it can be used for interior cleaning
- Spray-on/rinse-off application process improves productivity.
- Good on multiple substrates
Limitations of Heritage Restorer
- Do not allow product to dry on the surface. Always rinse thoroughly.
- Do not use on polished marble and metallic oxide film used for tinting or on self-cleaning glass.
- Not suitable for certain low-fire tiles when using extended dwell times. Always pre-test a small area first.
Surfaces Safely Used On
sandstone, brick, limestone, concrete, precast, exposed aggregate, granite, unpolished marble, synthetic stone, terrazzo, anodized aluminum, EIFS, uncoated stainless steel, stucco, cast stone, glass
Stain Removal
vanadium, manganese, mineral oxide stains, pollution stains, concrete leaching, caulk bleed, hard water stains on glass and concrete, sealer overspray from glass
This sandstone at Pymatuning State Park in Pennsylvania was revitalized with Heritage Restorer.
How to Apply Heritage Restorer
Dilutions
Heritage Restorer is always used undiluted.
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates with Heritage Restorer will vary from 75-250 sq. ft. per gallon depending on the surface porosity, texture, ambient temperature, craftsmanship, and severity of staining.
Application Instructions
- Pre-wet the surface (do not saturate) with water before applying Heritage Restorer.
- For the best results, apply Heritage Restorer with a low-pressure sprayer (brushing is not necessary).
- For the lighter soils, a single application with a 10-minute dwell time will remove many of the stains.
- For deeper soils or very porous surfaces, a double application with 10-minute dwell for the first application; then reapply and allow up to 1-hour total dwell time will provide the best results. Do not rinse between applications.
Rinsing
Proper rinsing techniques determine the final look and quality of the job. A thorough rinse job is always recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding the surface.
Heritage Restorer can be rinsed using cold water. Pressures that mark the surface should be avoided. If in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrates.
Do not use a zero-degree nozzle.
Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on the surface.
These pictures taken by Adrian Nguyen of Rolling Suds of Hollywood show a marble wall before and after being cleaned with Heritage Restorer.
Smoke Melt
Smoke Melt is a high pH alkaline cleaning product that will remove heavy carbon deposits and oil from wood or masonry. Smoke Melt softens heavy black smoke stains from fire damaged masonry. Smoke Melt undiluted may strip latex and enamel paints in a short time.
Advantages of Smoke Melt
- Removes heavy carbon deposits
- Removes both food and petroleum oil staining
Limitations of Smoke Melt
- Will etch windows
- May cause damage to some metallic surfaces
Surfaces Safely Used On
wood, masonry
How to Apply Smoke Melt
Dilutions
– 4:1 – 9:1 for severe smoke damage.
– 15:1 for light smoke damage.
– Use undiluted – 10:1 for brushing application and oil stain removal
Application Instructions
Protect anodized aluminum, glass and painted substrates. Cover foliage with polyethylene or other proven protective material. Avoid wind drift on surrounding surfaces such as auto and pedestrian traffic.
Always protect the surrounding area by covering it with plastic. If you are spraying this product, always try to stay away from or above the mist, as it will burn your skin.
Pre-wet (do not soak), the area with water before applying the product.
With a strong dilution, for severe smoke damage, apply with a low-pressure applicator.
With a weaker dilution, for light smoke damage, apply with a downstream through a pressure washer at low pressure.
For black crust removal, use undiluted. A nylon brush can be used to apply, when necessary. Let the product dwell for fifteen minutes to an hour.
Smoke Melt has special additives that cause soils to rise to the surface. Craftsmanship determines the appropriate pressures for rinsing.
A thorough rinse job is always recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding a wall. Pressures that mark or damage the surface should be avoided.
When in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrate.
Rinsing
Always rinse thoroughly, before the product dries. Rinse pressure is determined by the skill set of the washer and sensitivity of the surface.
Pressures that mark or damage the surface should be avoided. If in doubt, consult the substrate manufacturer for recommended P.S.I. Do not allow to dry on surface, always rinse while wet.
Smoke soot that stained the painted metal inside this shop was eliminated using Smoke Melt.
ABF Restoration
ABF Restoration is our version of an “Old Fashion” restoration. The gentler sister of Hydrofluoric Acid, ABF Restoration can provide similar cleaning results with decreased chance of damaging the surface. ABF Restoration is a powerful cleaner that can harm surfaces and people if not used as directed. Directions for use of ABF Restoration need to be followed because harm to surfaces and/or people can result.
Advantages of ABF Restoration
- Spray on/rinse off application increases productivity.
- Can be used on hard-faced bricks, terra cotta and concrete.
- More effective than raw Hydrofluoric Acid at removing black mineral stains from older surfaces.
- Works exceptionally well on clinker brick.
Limitations of ABF Restoration
Precautions should be taken to avoid contact with glass or anodized aluminum as it may mark these surfaces.
Surfaces Safely Used On
hard-faced bricks, terra cotta, concrete
How to Apply ABF Restoration
Dilutions
Dilutions will vary depending on type of surface and application. Testing will determine final dilution.
- 1 – 10 parts water to 1 part ABF Restoration for restoration work
- 8 – 20 parts water to 1 part ABF Restoration for lane cleaning or sidewalk cleaning without heavy oil stains.
NOTE: Repeated use of ABF Restoration undiluted can harm surfaces. Use caution and common sense.
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates will vary based on severity of buildup. Proper testing will determine actual coverage and dilution rate.
Application Instructions
- Apply ABF Restoration with a low-pressure sprayer when cleaning porous hard brick or concrete.
- For the best results, use two applications, each with a 3- to 5-minute dwell time. Do not rinse between applications.
- The first application penetrates the surface and the second application lifts the soil and/or stain out.
Rinsing
Proper rinsing techniques determine the final look and quality of the job. A thorough rinse job is always recommended. ABF Restoration should be rinsed using cold water. Pressures that mark the surface should be avoided. When in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrates.
Do not use a zero-degree nozzle.
Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on a surface.
The overhead doors on this trucking garage were covered in diesel soot, black stains, and rust. ABF was brought in to completely restore them.
HD Britenol
HD Britenol is an all-purpose cleaner designed for residential and light duty commercial applications. HD Britenol works great on most substrates. HD Britenol will not harm people or animals when used as directed, but care should be taken to protect plants. HD Britenol is sold as a concentrate and ships not regulated by the D.O.T.
Advantages of HD Britenol
- Safely replaces bleach on most applications
- Cleans using brushless application
- Can be used on multiple substrates
- Great for use in either commercial or residential applications
- Improves productivity
Limitations of HD Britenol
- Do not allow product to dry on the surface. Always rinse thoroughly.
- Generally, not effective on very old thick-crusted carbon deposits
- Not a restoration detergent
- Diamond Deck can blush, even when using this product at high dilutions. Adequate testing is required.
Surfaces Safely Used On
Aluminum Siding, Vinyl Siding, Stainless Steel (non-coated), Fiberglass, Tile, Porcelain, Asphalt Shingles, Stucco, Wood, Granite, Unpolished Marble, Limestone, Concrete, EIFS
Aluminum bleachers at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. Cleaned with HD Britenol diluted 50:1.
How to Apply HD Britenol
Dilutions
- 4 parts water to 1 part HD Britenol for asphalt shingles
- Undiluted to 15 parts water to 1 part HD Britenol for aggressive staining
- 20-60 parts water to 1 part HD Britenol for standard maintenance and cleaning
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates will vary based on dilutions, porosity severity of stain, application method, and other factors. Proper testing will determine actual coverage rate.
Application Instructions
- Pre-wet the surface (do not saturate) with water before applying HD Britenol.
- For best results, apply HD Britenol twice to the surface. Allow several minutes in between applications – do not allow the product to dry on the surface.
- HD Britenol can be used as a one-step cleaner or in a two-step cleaning system (acid then alkaline) with Cleansol BC. The two-step system creates neutralization and will boost performance in difficult areas such as under eaves.
Rinsing
Proper rinsing techniques determine the final look and quality of the job. A thorough rinse job is always recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding the surface. HD Britenol can be rinsed using cold water and low pressure. Pressures that mark the surface should be avoided. When in doubt, follow the manufacturers recommended P.S.I. for the substrates.
Do not use a zero-degree nozzle.
Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on a surface.
Water stains were removed from this fountain with HD Britenol.
A.R.T.
A.R.T. is a solvent-based resin system designed for treating the surface of anodized aluminum to renew satin luster that has been damaged by environmental or chemical pollutants. A.R.T. remains on anodized aluminum for extended periods of time without cracking or peeling and is easily removed for re-treatment.
Advantages of A.R.T.
- Non-hazardous and non-flammable
- Renews anodized finish
- Protects for long periods of time
Limitations of A.R.T.
- Will not restore pitted anodized aluminum
Surfaces Safely Used On
anodized aluminum
Dilutions
A.R.T. is always used undiluted.
Coverage Rates
Minimum expected coverage per gallon is 3,000 – 5,000 linear feet of anodized trim. Application to a flat surface would produce 1,500 – 2,000 sq. ft.
Application Instructions
- Once the surface has been properly cleaned and completely dry, apply A.R.T. with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Apply enough A.R.T. directly on the cloth to spread over at least one whole window or door segment; ring out the excess liquid.
- Wipe on a thin coat in one direction – do not go back over A.R.T.
- When the cloth no longer provides adequate coverage, re-wet with A.R.T.
Note: If A.R.T. gets on adjoining surfaces, wipe free. Product applied too heavily will remain tacky and attract dust and airborne particles. A.R.T. should not be applied over previously applied coatings. If coated, remove it with the appropriate stripper. This system will not restore pitted anodized aluminum. Once pitting has occurred, exposing bare metal, only repainting will fix the surface.
Rinsing
A.R.T. does not get rinsed off.
Alkaline Stone Cleaner
Alkaline Stone Cleaner is an all-purpose cleaner for removing stubborn deposits from many substrates. These would include stone, concrete, masonry, awnings, and common sidings. The deposits include lichens, algae, biological and environmental stains. Rinsing with a pressure washer is generally required.
Advantages of Alkaline Stone Cleaner
- Generally brushless application
- Biodegradable
- Fast rinsing
- Friendly on most paint and glass
Limitations of Alkaline Stone Cleaner
- This is a mild but effective cleaner that may not accomplish all restoration challenges
- Do not use in exceptional heat
Surfaces Safely Used On
stone, vinyl siding, awnings, gutters, glass, concrete, stucco, wood, EIFS, masonry surfaces
How to Apply Alkaline Stone Cleaner
Dilutions
Undiluted for extreme stains and soils
- (4:1) heavy stains and soils (can use an EC Jet)
- (10:1) for medium cleaning
- (20:1) for light soil
Note: Dilutions will vary based on the severity of stain and type of surface.
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates with Alkaline Stone Cleaner will vary from 100-250 sq. ft. per gallon depending on the surface porosity, texture, ambient temperature, craftsmanship, and severity of staining.
Application Instructions
- Pre-wet the surface (do not saturate) with water before applying ASC.
- Apply two applications using a low-pressure applicator. Do not rinse between applications
Rinsing
Use a wide-angle nozzle when rinsing. Rinse pressure is determined by the skill set of the washer and sensitivity of the surface. When in doubt, consult the substrate manufacturer for recommended P.S.I. Pressures that mark or damage the surface should be avoided. Do not use a zero-degree nozzle. Caution: Do not allow the product to dry on a surface.
Polished Stone Cleaner
This unique chemistry is a neutral cleaner with a lot of advantages for interior or exterior cleaning of polished stone, such as marble and granite. A very mild pleasant odor and non-corrosive non-hazardous components make it safe for both the user and the environment.
P.S.C. can remove smoke, heavy finger soils, sealers and waxes, and foot traffic soil without any harm to the stone surface. Another real benefit of the product is that it does not foam on pickup, so that if you must vacuum the residue, you will not waste time clearing foam or de-foaming.
All these characteristics make the soap readily disposable to sanitary sewers or easily treated in a waste reclaim system.
Advantages of Polished Stone Cleaner
- Renews the surface of the polished stone without any hazards.
- Neutral pH makes the soap personally and environmentally safe.
- Low foaming non-emulsifying characteristics make it great for disposal or treatment.
Limitations of Polished Stone Cleaner
- The undiluted or highly concentrated product should not be left on a painted surface too long. This can be evened out by reapplication of the product over the area and rinsing properly.
- This product may dry out skin if used over prolonged periods of time without gloves.
Surfaces Safely Used On
Polished stones, such as marble and granite
How to Apply Polished Stone Cleaner
Dilutions
Dilutions will vary based on the severity of the stain and type of surface.
– Use undiluted (straight) up to 50:1 for regular light duty cleaning
– Use undiluted (straight) up to 4:1 for removing smoke damage or sealers
– 4:1 – 20:1 for removing heavy finger soil or foot traffic dirt
Coverage Rates
Coverage rates will vary from 100 – 250 sq. ft. per gallon depending on the surface porosity, texture and severity of staining.
Application Instructions
The product can be applied by spray, brush, cloth or sponge at the recommended dilutions. Agitate as needed or simply allow adequate dwell time so soil can be wiped, mopped or sprayed away.
Rinsing
Type and pressure of rinse depends on the surface being cleaned. A garden hose rinse and a mop or hand wipe may be used on sensitive surfaces. With stronger concentrations, softened soil will need to be rinsed away with a spray or a clean mop.
Important Note About Abrasive Blasting on Stone and Brick
The only situation where this chemistry has not been proven effective is when abrasive blasting has damaged the stone or brick. This process seems to open the stone in such a fashion that the chemical cleaning process has no chance of being successful.
We strongly advise against abrasive blasting on any kind of stone or brick.
Urban Highrise Restoration System
The “Urban Highrise Restoration System” is designed to provide safe and effective cleaning procedures for highrise structures located in city settings. Not only will this system provide remarkable results for the structure itself, but it will also provide safety for surrounding buildings and vehicles passing by.
The Transamerica Building in downtown San Francisco was restored using the “Urban Highrise System.”
Principle Points of Safety
1. OneRestore® is considered non-corrosive in its concentrated form, which means it will not harm glass, paint, skin or other substrates undiluted when used as directed.
2. Chlorine, which is the principal engine of OneRestore®, is present in all water that is treated for consumption in the U.S.A.
3. Neutralization has not been left to chance. OneRestore® is acidic and once you have applied the product to alkaline materials (such as limestone, mortar, aggregate, etc.), the two neutralize each other prior to the chemical run off. Cleansol BC, which is also alkaline, is used as a second step before rinsing to assure neutralization of any remaining residues.
The building is covered in crushed quartz.
The Process
- The undiluted or highly concentrated product should not be left on a painted surface too long. This can be evened out by reapplication of the product over the area and rinsing properly.
- This product may dry out skin if used over prolonged periods of time without gloves.
The surrounding redwood trees were far too large to cover, so this system enabled the cleaning to proceed without harming the trees.
OneRestore® and Historical Structures
Polish Consulate in New York City
In Manhattan, the Polish Consulate was in drastic need of cleaning. Originally built in 1905 as the de Lamar Mansion and listed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1983, this magnificent building is the anchor for its block.
In 2008, the contract was awarded to restore this historical site. OneRestore® was the main product selected for the job due to the wide variety of staining issues ranging from city traffic to general build-ups. The intricate details had to be carefully preserved while not harming the surrounding buildings or adjacent surfaces. With its safety and user friendly qualities, OneRestore® was the best option.
At night, the building is lit up and the buildings details are even more magnificent.
One West Wilson Street in Madison, WI
Historic One West Wilson Street in Madison, WI was a unique state project. The original product specified was one of our competitors restoration cleaners. However, after several attempts by the contractor to clean the surface, there was little change to the grime. Someone on site overheard conversations about the lack or results and mentioned the cleaning agent was the problem. OneRestore® was originally tested, however politics took over!
The following week, OneRestore® was re-tested head-to-head with their cleaner. After 45 minutes of applying and scrubbing with their product, the wall showed little change. With only one application of OneRestore®, no scrubbing and a ten minute dwell time, the area tested looked new!
The state of Wisconsin is so pleased at the results that they are now specifying OneRestore® for several other state-run historic restoration projects!
OneRestore® and Limestone
Limestone is one of nature’s most durable building surfaces, literally lasting for hundreds of years. Limestone’s longevity is why it is on so many high profile buildings. Yet for all its durability, the fact that it is so porous makes limestone highly susceptible to deep stains that can greatly diminish its natural beauty.
Traditionally, the limestone industry has argued against using Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) to clean limestone. However, our HCl-based products have been proven to be used safely and effectively on limestone.
For simple cleaning, OneRestore® alone is more than capable of handling the task. For deeper stains or crust, Stripper Cream is used in conjunction with OneRestore®.
In the above picture, you can see the staining on the County Courthouse in Oklahoma City, OK was an extreme case. OneRestore® was used to remove the stains with absolutely no whitening or etching of the stone.
Using OneRestore® on Multiple Substrates
Recommended application is by low-pressure sprayer; brushing is not necessary. A single undiluted application will remove many stains.
For deep stain removal from porous surfaces, pre-wet (do not soak) the surface with water. Use a double undiluted application, spaced three to five minutes apart without rinsing in between the applications.
Craftsmanship determines the appropriate pressure for rinsing. A thorough rinse job is recommended; however, our chemistry never requires flooding a wall.
Pressures that mark or damage the surface should be avoided. When in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s recommended P.S.I. for the substrate on which you are working. Use lower pressures when cleaning sensitive substrates.
Extended dwell time is very important when using this product. Do not allow the product to dry on the surface and always rinse thoroughly.
In the following photographs, OneRestore® is used to remove years’ worth of dirt and grime from the historic public library in Canton, Massachusetts. The exterior of the library is made up of limestone, brick, and granite.
In the above image, you can see the washer has pre-wet the wall with water and he is using a low-pressure sprayer to apply OneRestore® undiluted. The severity of the stains is obvious, even when the wall is wet. It is apparent that water alone will not be enough to clean the library.
In the above photograph, you can see the OneRestore® is working as-intended as the foam runs down all three substrates, including the limestone. Giving a five-to-ten-minute dwell time allows the product to penetrate deep into the substrates. Longer dwell times may be needed given the degree of difficulty. Remember that brushing is not necessary.
In the final photo above, you can see that a low-pressure rinse has removed the dirt and grime from the test area of the library, making the surfaces look new. These are typical OneRestore® results when used correctly.
Case Study: Heritage Restorer on the Pittsburgh City-County Building
After years of western Pennsylvania’s notorious freeze-thaw cycles, any building is likely to present hidden challenges during masonry repairs. Graciano crews performing “make-safe” work on parapets surmounting the 144-foot City-County Building in Pittsburgh found themselves disassembling a Classical Revival wedding cake of stone, brick and terra cotta.
Restoring granite in this 100+ year old historic architectural facility was a job thought to be very difficult. After multiple chemistry tests from many different manufacturers, Heritage Restorer was chosen to restore this government landmark. With years of city pollution accumulated on the surface, with multiple staining issues, Heritage Restorer was able to restore the granite.
Heritage Restorer is a restoration detergent for historical or sensitive substrates. The product is based on our thoroughly developed non-corrosive technology. Cleaning power is achieved by a combination of over 25% surfactants, mild acids to melt metal and mineral oxide residue and water-based solvents for hydrocarbon-based residues.
It is great for brick, limestone, sandstone, concrete, precast, exposed aggregate, granite, unpolished marble, synthetic stone and terrazzo.
Always test the product in a small area before beginning the project.
Case Study: ABF Restoration on the Pittsfield Building
The historic Pittsfield Building in the heart of Chicago was the tallest building in the city upon completion in 1927. This 38-story high rise had accumulated years of atmospheric staining and pollution.
In 2003, the building was slated to have some of the terra cotta facade replaced and the exterior of the building cleaned. Some of the challenges involved with the restoration of the Pittsfield Building were the thousands of windows and the famed high winds of Chicago.
With ABF’s safety on glass, the windows did not need to be covered. There was also no concern for surrounding buildings as the material was being blown in the wind.
Another benefit of ABF is that it can be applied with a low-pressure sprayer and rinsed with a garden hose. This made the historic preservationists happy because it reduced the risk of damage to the building’s delicate terra cotta surface. Except for a few heavily crusted areas, the contractor was able to avoid using high pressure for the cleaning.
With only a 2-man crew, the contractor was able to clean over 3,000 sq. ft. each night with exceptional results!
ABF is a very effective ammonium bi-fluoride restoration detergent. Originally designed for glazed brick and terra cotta cleaning, it is also an excellent concrete cleaner. ABF offers the strength of Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) but with a higher degree of safety, and the ability to work without covering glass when used as directed.
Do not allow product to dry on surface. ABF’s acid blend is often more effective than HF at removing the black mineral stains that occur on glazed surfaces with almost no chance of burning. This is our most economical restoration detergent.
ABF offered several benefits on the historic Pittsfield Building:
- Since ABF will not etch glass, none of the windows needed to be covered, saving thousands of dollars on the project.
- The new terra cotta tiles on the uncleaned right side of the building are clear. Can you spot the new tiles on the cleaned left side?
- ABF was effective at cleaning the ornate details of the building.