Specialist Facade Restoration
Facades face a constant assault by the environment. Harsh weather conditions, pollution from traffic or other airborne pollutants, stain moss as well as manmade and structural damages. Here at Etro Homes we offer all under one roof professional facade restoration services linking modern technology with old traditional methods and craftsmanship. With an individual approach and solution for each building, we can bring your building back to its original beauty.
Our Services
BRICK AND STONE STEAM CLEANING
HOW IT WORKS Steam cleaning is a gentle process of cleaning stone using steam and low pressure. Generally, a temperature of 150 degrees Celsius will provide the needed results, but it is adjusted to suit an array of stonework substances during the cleaning process. The super-heated steam from the machine is enough to give you the best results. It is capable of detaching the substances from your interior and exterior walls while killing them at the same time. Consequently, you will not only be cleaning your property but you will also be reducing the chances of mold regrowth. The steam cleaning system removes environmental stains, moss, grime, fungi, or vegetation on the structure, as well as dirt or biological spores in even the tiniest spaces whilst causing no physical damage to the structure or surface, We use appropriate and ideal cleaning products, expertise, and equipment for efficient cleaning of your interiors and exteriors Over time, dirt and grime can build up, not only does this make the building look tired and unappealing, but it can also cause damage to the building materials, Using our experience and specialist knowledge, we can safely restore your building to its original glory. Cleaning and restoring a facade can also greatly increase its market value.
PAINT REMOVAL FROM BRICKS AND STONES
Paint removal gains popularity in London. Our brick paint removal service will bring your brickwork back to its original condition. For removing paint from brickwork we use superheated water cleaning system. The temperature of superheated water is high, so it breaks the bond between paint and brick. However, the steam pressure is low, so it causes absolutely no damage to the surface. We use safe, non-abrasive products to help restore the look & feel of your property. Removing paint from brick will allow the brickwork to breathe naturally, which will help to reduce the risk of future maintenance costs Furthermore, painting the exterior facade of a building can lead to serious structural damage. If there is even a tiny amount of moisture trapped between the brick and the paint, the brick may erode without you noticing. Bricks can quickly degrade if frozen moisture is trapped inside them during the colder months. We can provide a free test patch beforehand to demonstrate the results. REMOVING THE PAINT FROM THE BRICK Allows brickwork to breathe naturally Reduces the risk of dampness and mold appear Restores the property to its original, natural appearance Reduces the maintenance costs Increases property's value
SPECIALIST FACADE PAINTING & DECORATING & WINDOW RESTORATION
The character and condition of the windows define the overall appearance of a facade. A fundamental aspect of window maintenance is the thorough examination of all timber work for signs of rot especially in less accessible areas, where damage can worsen undetected. We inspect your windows, window surrounds and stonemasonry for any signs of damage, checking for cracked and rotten wood in need of repair and redecoration. Then, working with the best materials and processes, we apply the most appropriate methods for effective, durable timber and window repair, painting, and decoration. We also remove any defective putty and sealants and replace them to ensure that windows are free from leaks that might lead to water ingress. Where paint is peeling, it’s important to redecorate before the exposed timber starts to rot. From a conservation perspective, redecoration is the most sustainable and carbon-efficient approach. Maintenance and repair improve the thermal performance of buildings by 15%. However, these repairs have to be undertaken properly which means taking the right approach, the most appropriate skills, and knowledge. If we do not maintain windows properly, they will decay and fall into disrepair. Keeping on top of such maintenance is both economically beneficial and beneficial in terms of being both carbon and energy-efficient. Types of windows our team can repair and decorate include: UPVC windows Timber windows Sash windows Metal windows
SILICONE RENDER
Silicone render has been one of the most popular types of systems requested by clients. What is silicone render? Silicone render contains silicone – which is a polymer that is rubbery and has a greater resistance to high temperatures. Unlike acrylic, silicone render comes in several formulations and colors which provides great flexibility for homeowners. It imparts a high degree of water repellency to the render system that allows for better breathability within the surface. How Long Does Silicone Render Last? In general, silicone renders are more durable and reliable than traditional mixtures. This is especially true when it’s combined with an adhesive base coat and mineral. As such, the average lifespan of silicone rendering is between 25 – 30 years. However, you should also note that there are several factors that can affect the longevity of any render. These include where you live, the climate, how well the render was applied by the rendering contractor used, etc. Does Silicone Render Crack? Silicone is extremely versatile and provides high performance. As such it is very flexible and resistant to any cracks. Given that it provides a wide range of colored options, its unique combination of such benefits has made it a very popular choice with our customers. What’s The Difference Between Acrylic Render And Silicone Render? Acrylic is a relatively cheap render which makes it a good option if you are on a low budget. They are a type of plastic and are added to render to help provide better stain and water resistance as well as greater resistance to cracking. The drawback with acrylic render is that it does not breathe, so if you want air to get to the bricks and insulation underneath, acrylic is not going to work for you. Silicone render, on the other hand, provides breathability and is longer lasting than acrylic renders. As such it is a more expensive option but considering the respective lifespan, silicone render provides better value than acrylic render. Conclusion So, is silicone render any good? As we tried to explore various aspects of silicone render, it can be understood that there are many benefits of using them for your property. It definitely should be considered as an investment to your property – one that can increase its value over time too.
BRICK & STONE SEALING
Bricks are used for many aspects of construction. They are considered one of the strongest and longest-lasting building materials in history. Bricks can be made of clay, concrete, stone, ceramic, or lime and sand. Like other exterior building materials, a brick wall should be sealed to slow the effects of weathering. When moisture is allowed to penetrate the brick, the damaging effects can cause cracking, breaking, crumbling, and efflorescence problems. We offer numerous cleaning and sealing treatments that can be used on many substrates whilst preserving their aesthetic and constitution. These applications may be commercial or domestic and we take great care in ensuring each property is protected to a high standard. KEY FEATURES For use on a range of substrates including Brick, Stone, Sandstone, Concrete & Render Penetrates up to 17mm into the substrate to provide an invisible insulating barrier Chemically bonds to mineral surfaces Dries clear and does not affect the appearance of the substrate Super-hydrophobic Self-cleaning Highly breathable Helps prevent discoloration & salt efflorescence Discourages growth of moss, algae & lichens Prevents frost damage Moisture ingress beneath the surface of your substrate will promote moss, lichen, and algae growth. This can undermine the structural integrity and material strength through repeated freeze-thaw cycles that can induce cracking in the structure. Scott Blast Property Protection can prevent these risks whilst making your property look like new again. INVISIBLE INSULATION Sealing your property improves the thermal efficiency of masonry by keeping it dry. Tests have shown that it reduces water absorption by more than 95%. Keeping walls dry reduces heat loss and contributes to lower energy consumption and lower energy bills. Damp walls act as ‘thermal bridges’ – enabling heat to transfer from the inside out twice as quickly as it would if the walls remained dry. Tests have shown that a damp content of 5% in a plain brick wall can lower the insulation performance by up to 50%, especially where cavity wall insulation has been installed.
REPOINTING
What is repointing? Mortar holds bricks, stones, and blocks together, so it is essential for maintaining your home’s structure, as well as defending against water and dampness. If it’s allowed to weaken and get worn down, then the integrity of your home could be at risk. Repointing is the process of removing and replacing this mortar. It’s an excellent way to fix any damage and wear and tear on your property as well as to improve the look of a home. It’s especially good for older homes, where new mortar can be used to reduce dampness and improve the durability of the walls for all weather conditions. Mortar erodes over time as a result of extreme weather, so all homes will need repointing eventually, although a good quality job can last over 50 years. Telltale signs you need to repoint your walls include soft and crumbly mortar, wet bricks, damaged brickwork, and holes in the mortar. If you discover a white powdery coating appearing on your bricks, known as “efflorescence” this can often be fixed through repointing.
STRUCTURAL REPAIRS / FAILED LINTEL/ CRACK STITCHING
One of the most common causes of cracked brickwork in London is caused by Lintel Failure. Lintels act as load-bearing structural supports that sit above your windows and doors. They can be made from a range of materials such as brick, concrete, timber, stone, steel, and concrete with steel rods. Depending on the age and the type of property, the lintel support could be failing due to natural deterioration, environmental factors such as the weather, thermal and/or moisture movement, Poor construction design or technique, etc. Ignoring small signs of structural issues can result in major expenses down the road, sometimes requiring an engineer. What may seem minor to your eye may actually be a significant problem in your foundation. You could risk extensive damage to your home, costly repairs and in extreme cases, may make the property unsafe. Cases like this can be repaired either by supplementing the existing lintel or replacing the existing lintel, These methods of repair are not incorrect and will restore the structural integrity of the masonry but they can be costly and time-consuming. Thankfully, most modern cracked brickwork and lintel repairs are cost-effective, quick, and non-invasive to the exterior facade. Lintel Reinforcement and Crack Stitching using modern methods of repair is by far the best method of repair using a combination of Bed Joint Reinforcement, otherwise known as Helical Bar. Helical Bar is a helical stainless steel reinforcing bar, with substantial tensile properties, used for strengthening and stabilizing masonry in both new build and remedial situations. They are bonded into cut slots at pre-determined levels in the masonry using cementitious grout, it is the composite action between the Helical Bars and Helical Bond that provides the core element of the Helical Beam System, making it such a versatile, reliable, and successful masonry repair system. Helical Bar crack stitching provides a quick, simple, effective, and permanent means of stabilizing cracked masonry. As well as ensuring the structural soundness of the wall, we also know how important it is to retain aesthetic integrity. The brickwork is carefully cut vertically to the depth of the external skin using a diamond disc cutter. Joint filler is inserted and we ensure that weatherproof external grade sealant is then applied, color matched to the surrounding brickwork, leaving a neat movement joint that will prevent future cracking. We provide a wide range of structural repairs and building renovation solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential customers. We have a range of Structural Repair solutions, our engineers will always find the most economical solution to a problem. WHAT CAUSES BRICK WALLS TO CRACK? Foundation movement Thermal and/or moisture movement Frost action Corrosion of embedded steelwork Lintel failure Overloading Poor construction Design/technique How can you tell if a crack is structural? As the name suggests, structural cracks occur because of poor construction sites, overloading, or poor soil bearing. Telltale signs of structural cracks in your foundation are: Stair-step cracks. Cracks on foundation slabs or beams. Vertical cracks that are wide at the bottom or top. Cracks measuring 1/8″ in width. BENEFITS OF INSTALLING HELIBAR. Extremely economical compared with alternative methods May remove or reduce the need for mass underpinning Fully concealed once installed Avoids expensive and disruptive taking down and rebuilding Minimal disruption to the building’s fabric or occupants Reduces the potential for cracking in shrinkable materials.
PATIO AND DRIVEWAY CLEANING AND RESTORATION
Your driveway takes a beating throughout the year, A dirty-looking driveway can have an extremely negative impact on both the look and the feel of any building. There are many benefits to driveway cleaning the main one being your driveway or paths being free of algae, moss, and weeds. Any path or drive that has algae, weeds and moss on it can become very slippery when wet or icy. Most pressure washing companies use cold water electric pressure washers which can only remove surface soil and dirt but tend to struggle to remove oil, grease, and Lichen. Here at Etro Homes, we specialize in all aspects of high and low-pressure washing, our superheated water systems are capable of producing the correct temperate and flow rate to ensure all dirt, grime, oil, and grease are removed effectively. A Hot Power wash can clean the worst of surfaces, it doesn’t only clean surfaces it also takes out all the weeds and roots that are stuck in the ridges or cracks of stonework. BENEFITS OF PATIO CLEANING: Prevents Mildew, Mold, and Other Harmful Growths Limits Weeds Eliminates Stains Increases Safety Saves Time and Exertion A Cost-Effective Method Environmentally Friendly Improves Curb Appeal and Home Value.
BRICK TINTING
DOES YOUR HOUSE LOOK LIKE A PATCHWORK OF DIFFERENT COLOURED BRICKS? It is often the case that the failure to blend bricks adequately during repair works or the building of extensions leaves a property looking rather dishevelled. The technique of brick tinting by applying oxide-based pigments in a potassium silicate solvent to give a colour-fast stain to the surface of brick masonry has been widely used for more than half a century to address just this issue. WHAT IS BRICK TINTING? Brick tinting is the process of physically changing the colour of brickwork to match surrounding areas. This is achieved by applying a tinting solution to each individual brick or mortar joint. The process creates a seamless look by eliminating any inconsistencies in colour between different batches of bricks and masonry This is not a surface coating or paint. It is iron oxide pigments and a chemical binder, which are applied and penetrate into the brick surface to form a permanent bond. The process enables us to darken, lighten, or completely change the colour of the brick surface to match up extensions of incorrect brick choices previously done. Formulations have been used successfully for many years within the construction industry. It is non-toxic, odourless, and fire-resistant and contains zero volatile organic compounds. SAMPLES Before any permanent work takes place, the first step is to make a sample. This is the first stage of any brick tinting project. First, we carefully mix the colours using our specialist brick dye. We apply the tint to a small area of your brickwork, we do this without the fixative additive which makes the solution permanent. If you are not happy with the sample then the works do not proceed and there is no charge to you. The sample can be power washed away afterwards. BRICK PAINTING VS BRICK STAINING When you paint brick, you ruin brick. Painting brick decreases home value, destroys integrity, and will need costly maintenance. Painting brick traps moisture. Staining lets the brick breathe. Painting brick requires maintenance. Staining is permanent. Painting brick creates a film over the brick. Staining forms a chemical bond with it. Painting brick results in a flat finish. Staining keeps its natural look intact.