Diamond
cut stone
It is generally necessary to clean the dust from limestone
prior to applying a sealant.
In the case of diamond cut limestone the dust created
during the cutting process creates a slurry when mixed
with the water used to keep the diamond cutting segments
cool, when dry this can appear like plaster on the stone
face & must be removed to reveal the natural character
of the limestone.
The process used to remove this is a simple procedure
using a high pressure water cleaner however it is
very important to avoid directing the water directly
at the face of the stone as this could remove softer
material which, if left will harden when it dries
or after the correct sealant is applied. It is preferable
to use a broader jet of water if possible & to
tend to sweep the material from the face by applying
pressure at an angle.
In most cases the stone has been freshly cut &
is at it's softest state at that time due to the absorption
of water during the reprocessing & its lack of
exposure to the elements.
Allow the stone to dry before sealing as it must
be able to absorb the sealant to a depth of about
20mm + - for long term effectiveness, the time required
to dry depends on the climatic conditions prevailing
at the time.
WATEREPEL should be applied at the rate of about
1 litre per M2 to ensure the correct penetration when
applied.
Note: As natural limestone is a porous material it
can absorb water almost like a sponge & therefore
demand greater amounts of sealant than necessary.
Quarry
cut stone
The process to clean quarry cut limestone is similar
however the method used in this case is more of a
washing process as this dust is easier to remove.
Care must be taken as stone that is freshly cut directly
from the quarry floor is softer & more prone to
be damaged by high pressure than that which has been
reprocessed through saws using diamond tipped blades.
It essential that it is cleaned by low rather than
high pressure, ideally mains water pressure should
be used by way of a normal garden hose fitted with
a fitting which can create a broad/flat spray, these
inexpensive attachments can be purchased from hardware
stores.
To wash the dust from quarry cut stone simply start
at the highest point & work down sweeping/washing
the dust before you, particular care should be taken
to avoid dislodging loose material. Quarry cut limestone
is generally more absorbent than diamond cut stone
& particular care should be taken to limit the
application of sealant to 1 Litre per M2.
A.C.N. 117 380 088 | ABN 84 117 380 088
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