Let's face it limestone is a gorgeous stone that has stood the test of time. It is used in commercial buildings, court houses, government buildings, high end homes, landscaping walls and columns, walkways and more.
Limestone is a beautiful and commonly used building material, but it requires special care when cleaning. Here's a breakdown of why soft washing is preferred over power washing for limestone:
Why Soft Washing is Essential for Limestone and why hire ChicagoLand SoftWash:
Limestone's Softness:
Limestone is a relatively soft and porous stone. High-pressure washing can easily erode, damage, and pit the surface.
This damage can lead to increased water absorption, which can further weaken the stone and promote the growth of mold and algae.
Preventing Damage:
Soft washing uses low-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to gently remove dirt, mold, algae, and other contaminants.
This method avoids the harsh impact of high-pressure water, preserving the integrity of the limestone.
Effective Cleaning:
Soft washing solutions are designed to penetrate the porous surface of limestone, effectively killing and removing organic growth at its root.
This results in a more thorough and longer-lasting clean compared to power washing, which often only removes surface dirt.
Why You Should Never Power Wash Limestone:
Erosion and Pitting:
The force of high-pressure water can wear away the surface of limestone, causing irreversible damage.
Increased Porosity:
Power washing can increase the porosity of limestone, making it more susceptible to water damage and staining.
Damage to Mortar:
If the limestone is part of a structure, power washing can also damage the mortar joints, leading to structural problems.
Spreading Moisture:
Power washing can force moisture deep into the stone, creating environments that promote further organic growth.
In summary:
Soft washing is the safest and most effective method for cleaning limestone.
Power washing can cause significant and lasting damage.
When you need your limestone building washed you can count on ChicagoLand SoftWash to get it sanitized and cleaned properly.