Bragging about Building Cleans
We have worked on a number of building cleans - where we clean up brick work and other external surfaces after building work has been completed to make sure that the finished building looks its best. We have worked on several such projects for Bristol-based construction company CTS, one of these involved removing unsightly white efflorescence from a red brick façade on a recently constructed property in Braggs Lane.
What is efflorescence?
White efflorescence is a type of white powdery surface deposit caused by water-soluble salts that leech out of bricks as they dry. It can look very unsightly, especially in this case where the white salts contrasted starkly against red brick work.
Efflorescence is a difficult problem to solve. We achieve the best possible results by using our own tried and tested blended acid solution to dissolve the salts, then flushing the surface with cold water at high pressure. We simply repeat this process until all the salts have been removed. We usually manage to achieve around 95% removal which massively improves the appearance of the surface. We do warn clients that the salts can continue to leech out of the bricks over time and we can always arrange to retreat any troublesome patches.
A clever approach to gaining access
Braggs Lane is located in Old Market in the centre of Bristol and there was very little space alongside the building for us to set up our high level access equipment. Our solution was to use a tracked 20 metre spider which we set up at the rear of the building. The extended outreach of the spider allowed us to access all of the exterior surface areas that required cleaning. On this particular project we also cleaned the mortar splashes left by the builders when they were pointing the brick work. It’s a common problem, often hard to avoid, and our cleaning soon got rid of any unsightly marks. Both CTS, and their client, were extremely pleased with the outcome.
To find out more about building cleans, or removal of white efflorescence contact Max Morris on 0333 234 1445 or email your enquiry and we will get back to you.