GFRC is an extremely durable material with non corrosive properties, meaning it generally sees minimal damage from dirt buildup that could deteriorate other surfaces. But dirt clinging to the surface will still lead to an unattractive and unprofessional facade which makes it important to make regular cleaning and maintenance part of a building maintenance routine.
How to Keep GFRC Clean
With the exterior spaces and interior spaces that see regular use, dust will build up on surfaces. GFRC has small pores that can trap dirt and cause staining. Routine cleaning on a yearly basis will keep things looking nice, while you can use more targeted cleaning techniques if there is a specific area where dirt has built up.
The first step after installing GFRC is to finish it soon as possible. This will help seal the GFRC to prevent dirt from settling beneath the surface and reduce problems with staining from the beginning. As GFRC elements begin to show signs of use, you can rely on the following techniques for cleaning:
- Exterior GFRC – You can clean any exterior architectural elements made from GFR with a standard hose, particularly with an adjustable nozzle. This should be enough to remove dust from the exterior. For more stubborn build up, a soft bristle brush with a neutral cleaning product can help get to the dirt beneath the surface. Performing these cleaning measures weekly or on an as needed basis will keep exterior elements in good repair.
- Exterior Pressure Washing – Annually, you can provide exterior elements with a more in depth cleaning via pressure washing. This should be done carefully with professional equipment and by someone experienced with pressure washing to avoid any etching or other damage to GFRC surfaces. You should use a pressure washer at the lowest possible power and test a section before beginning. After either weekly cleaning or annual pressure washing, you can use a leaf blower to help remove water that is trapped in the grooves of the GFRC surface to avoid any additional staining from mineral buildup.
- Interior GFRC Cleaning – If you have interior spaces with GFRC elements where you cannot use a hose or pressure washer, cleaning with a neutral soap, soft bristle brush, and microfiber towel when necessary can be effective at removing any visible dirt and drying surfaces afterward.
For both interior and exterior cleaning, you will want to avoid any cleaners that are not pH neutral. Dish soap and Simple Green are good options. Any cleaners that are bleach, ammonia, or acid based can damage a GFRC surface. You should also avoid natural cleaners, many of which contain acidic citrus as a primary ingredient.
You should also never permit a soap to dry on the surface, instead making sure to work quickly and avoid cleaning on any extremely warm days.
These cleaning strategies for GFRC will help keep any architectural elements around your property in good repair and looking at their best throughout their lifetime. To get a quote on GFRC for your project, contact GC Products today.