Higgins has made it easy for you to maintain your painted property and to keep the external paintwork looking fresh for longer. These simple tips explain how to care for your paintwork and extend the life of your property; not only improving the ongoing appearance of your facility but also helping to protect your investment from premature deterioration and reduce future painting costs.
Looking After External Paintwork
Contaminants, which settle on paint film, can attack the surface and cause premature coating breakdown. Regardless of the substrate type, all exterior painted surfaces will benefit greatly from an annual clean. Pay attention to areas that are not subject to regular rain exposure. The procedures noted below will increase the life of the coating and maintain the aesthetic properties of the paint finish.
External Walls, Facades and Associated Items
- Prepare a bucket of warm water mixed with a detergent that is safe for the environment.
- For basic cleaning, apply with a soft-bristle cleaning brush or broom. For tough stains, use a nonabrasive nylon scrub pad.
- Start at the top of the building, moving downwards to reduce streaking. Use a garden hose to rinse off each section before it dries.
- To clean mould and mildew stains use a solution of 1 part bleach in 4 parts water. Rinse thoroughly while the painted surface is still wet. Remember to wear the appropriate safety equipment.
- If you have a power washer use it at the lowest pressure possible. Use a wide spread fan tip and NEVER place the tip close to the wall surface. Remember, you can do serious damage to your exterior wall if improperly used.
Repairs to Timberwork
Timber exhibits a high level of movement as it expands and contracts in hot and cold conditions. Certain types of timber are more prone to cracking. When cracks occur in timber timely maintenance is essential as moisture readily enters the area causing blistering, mould and rotting. Rectification should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional applicator.
Repairs to Steelwork
All traces of rust must be removed via mechanical means then spot primed and top coated. This should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional applicator.
Typically, there are three maintenance painting solutions we can manage your property. These may be structured over as little as 5 years, or up to 15 years and beyond. Visit maintenance painting solutions for more information.
If you’re looking for long-term preventative maintenance rather than just an everyday paint job, Higgins will deliver a cost effective solution tailored to suit the condition of your property. Request a free inspection of your property and Higgins will evaluate the paint condition and its life expectancy, identify defects and provide a rectification overview.
