When it comes to removing tough stains, grime, and organic growth, selecting the right chemicals is crucial for effective and efficient cleaning. Here’s a guide to help you understand the different types of cleaners and their specific applications, from organic removal to rust and degreasing.
Organic Removal: Peroxide-Based vs. Sodium Hypochlorite (SH)
For removing organic growth such as mold, mildew, and algae, you can choose between peroxide-based cleaners and sodium hypochlorite (SH).
Sodium Hypochlorite (SH): Commonly sold at concentrations of 10.5% and 12.5%, SH is a powerful and cost-effective option for organic removal. Buying in bulk and filling your own tank can save you money. However, in some areas, you might need to purchase SH by the bottle. Look for a bulk supplier to reduce costs. Depending on the level of organic growth, you may need a mix strength ranging from 1% to 6%. Apply the solution, allow it to dwell for 5-10 minutes, and repeat if necessary. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and do not let the solution dry on the surface.
Peroxide-Based Cleaners: For customers who prefer to avoid SH or for surfaces that might be harmed by SH, peroxide-based cleaners like Clenzo or Green Ox Renew are excellent alternatives. These cleaners are more expensive, so adjust your pricing accordingly.
Rust Removal
Popular methods for rust removal include using products like F9 BARC, oxalic acid, and Eaco Chem One Restore. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each product. For mixing oxalic acid, a recommended concentration is 12 ounces per gallon of water for maximum strength rust removal.
Degreasing
Removing food, grease, and oil-based stains requires powerful degreasers. Common chemicals include EBC (Enviro Bio Cleaner), Eaco Chem Hot Stain Remover, F9 Double Eagle, and Gold Assassin. Apply the degreaser directly to heavy stain areas and let it dwell for 15 minutes. For particularly stubborn stains, apply the product straight to reduce the need for multiple treatments. Common dilutions are 1:1 (half water, half chemical) and 10:1 (10 ounces per gallon) for products like EBC and Gold Assassin. For maintenance accounts, downstreaming or soft washing at a 1% dilution can be effective.
Wood Cleaning
When cleaning wood, SH can be used at a 1% concentration and should be rinsed thoroughly to avoid damage. Preferred alternatives include sodium metasilicate, sodium percarbonate, or sodium hydroxide, followed by oxalic acid to restore the wood’s vibrant color. Practice on old pallets to perfect your technique, as wood cleaning requires more care than cleaning siding or concrete. Start with 4-6 ounces of chemical per gallon of water, increasing the concentration if needed.
Oxidation Removal
Oxidation removal is labor-intensive and often requires scrubbing with a brush. Effective chemicals include Cleansol BC, Gutter Grenade, Gutter Butter, and LA Awesome. Follow the directions and do not apply these chemicals straight. A starting dilution is 10:1 (10 ounces per gallon). Price oxidation removal services at 3-4 times the cost of a house wash due to the extra labor involved.
Definition of Oxidation: Oxidation is a chemical process where vehicle paint breaks down over time due to exposure to heat and oxygen, causing it to dry out and lose its oil content. This results in a dull appearance and eventual corrosion.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence occurs when water containing dissolved salts comes to the surface of masonry, leaving a crystalline deposit after the water evaporates. Treat with F9 Efflo, Effortless by Eaco Chem, NMD80, or Muriatic Acid (though the latter is not recommended). For heavy calcium deposits, use Calcite Presoak by Eaco Chem followed by NMD-80.
Mortar Smears and Concrete Splashes
NMD80 is effective for removing mortar smears and concrete splashes, especially on new construction sites.
Surfactants
Surfactants like Green Apple Wash by Panhandle and Slo-Mo by Pressure Washer Products help bind dirt, provide cling time on vertical surfaces, and reduce runoff when cleaning roofs. These surfactants are SH stable and can be added directly to your tank if downstreaming.
Asphalt Cleaning
For cleaning asphalt or addressing spills, use Dragon-Juice NV. Do not use a surface cleaner or degreaser on asphalt as it can cause damage.
