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Checking Conditions of the Masonry before Applying Stain

Only use stain when:

 

  • Air temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or above, is not expected to drop below 40° in the next 24 hours, and wall temperature is at least 35° Fahrenheit,

 

  • Masonry surface is completely dry and fully cured.  Complete drying is necessary for chemical bond to take place.

 

  • Masonry surface is clean.  If dirty, scrub with water and brush.  If necessary, use a cleaner recommended for your masonry. 

 

Beware of using a pressure washer to clean brick. Too much pressure can damage brick.

 

Staining will not be effective if:                  

 

  • Masonry has been sealed: To check for sealant, run or splash water on the wall.  If water beads up and the masonry doesn't change color then it has been sealed and cannot be stained until sealer has been removed. Note that some runs of brick such as some more recently manufactured runs of “ironspot” will fail this test even if no sealant has been applied.  If they will not absorb liquid, they cannot be effectively stained by our product.

 

  • Brick are acidic, i.e., they have a PH significantly lower than 7.  High acid levels sometimes result from improper acid washing.  If you suspect that your brick may have been improperly cleaned or you find that staining produces a white haze or heavy scum to form on the surface, check “Acid Reaction” in “Special Issues” below.

Safety Reminders
 
Always wear gloves, safety glasses, and old clothes when mixing or applying stain.  Also, always use tarps or other means to protect nearby surfaces from spills.

 

If stain solution is spilled or splashed:

 

  • In eyes: rinse with water for at least 10 minutes to ensure all particles have been removed.”

  • On skin: Rinse thoroughly with soap and water.

  • On clothing: Flush with water, but discoloration may be permanent.

  • On floors or walls: Remove immediately with water, keeping it wet at all times, dabbing with damp cloth.

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