Waterproofing Products
Kemper System
Tremco®

Precast Stone Waterproofing

Precast Stone - Protect your Investment

Precast stone can benefit from the application of waterproof sealants and water repellants. These products increase the life expectancy of building components by preventing moisture intrusion and costly facade deterioration. Waterproof coatings are a cost-effective means of protecting your structure, and can dramatically improve the appearance of a building.

There are many different types of architectural stone material, all of which have different characteristics that we analyze before determining the best means of maintenance. It is important for us to select a product that will allow us to achieve the desired results when cleaning or sealing your pre-cast stone materials. The products we use have suitability charts within its data sheet that shows the differences in stone types and their compatibility with the individual product.

Pressure Washing Stone - Hire a Professional!

For years people have believed that more pressure was better for cleaning stone. High water pressure damages the surface of the stone and is often unnecessary. Each time a stone surface is pressure washed, a layer of the stone material is removed. This is especially detrimental to precast and concrete materials that have a thin top layer on the material that covers the coarse aggregate within the stone. Using the proper products will safely and effectively clean the stone without damaging the surface of the material.

We’ve seen on many occasions inexperienced pressure cleaners holding the nozzle too close to the precast surface leaving a path of grooves etched into the stone damaging thousands of dollars worth of material.

We wash and rinse according to architectural precast concrete manufacturer’s recommendations while protecting other areas from damage while cleaning. We do not use cleaning materials or methods that change the appearance of architectural precast concrete finishes. We always test clean a small area to verify adequacy and safety of materials and methods. This prepares the surface for the water repellent application.

Where do Stone Stains Typically Come From?

This is a common question for property owners, managers, contractors and suppliers all over the world. Many factors can cause stone stains. Most stains are due to minerals leaching from the precast, which is caused by the way in which the stone surface is maintained.

If the precast on your building was sealed but leaching is still visible, one or more of the reasons below may be contributing to the problem:

Sealer used contains 40% silane, which leaches oily, mineral-laden residue
Sealants have expired and need to be reapplied
Buildup of surfactants (soap scum) and oils from sticky window cleaning detergents that attract dust and dirt and run onto stone surfaces
Use of high mineral content tap water during cleaning
Contact with high mineral content water through sprinkler systems
Overspray from careless waterproofing and painting projects
Leaching of deteriorating caulking or coatings
Leaching of contaminates from adjacent rusting metals
Leaching of failed UV-sensitive, water-repellant performance treatments
Biological growth such as mold, mildew or algae

Good Reasons to Waterproof your Precast Stone After Cleaning

Sealed stone stays cleaner for longer and resists staining and discoloration.
To guard the exterior from damaging minerals. Excess minerals leach from precast onto glass, frames and other materials where mineral stains are allowed to form rapidly. Sealing your precast keeps your windows looking cleaner for longer.
To prevent oil, water and stain penetration. Many types of soils can adhere to stone surfaces: vehicle exhaust, tree sap, fluid from leaking vehicles and many other environmental contaminates.
To prevent mold and mildew. Sealing your stone material prevents the penetration of water. Without water, green and black algae stains are unable to develop as they normally would.
To avoid water damage. If water is allowed to penetrate your precast, it starts to erode the bond that holds the stone together. In situations with precast panels, water damage normally only occurs at the surface level, therefore requiring a product designed for superior surface protection.
To protect your steel components. If water is allowed to penetrate your concrete, and is exposed to steel components that hold your building together, they will start to rust. This can cause structural damage and material staining.

Have Any Questions for our Team? Either Contact Us or Request a Quote today!