Historic Resources Committee

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Renaissance Schallaburg Figures in a facade

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The mission of the Historic Resources Committee (HRC) is to identify, understand, and preserve architectural heritage, both nationally and internationally. HRC is engaged in promoting the role of the historic architect within the profession through the development of information and knowledge among members, allied professional organizations, and the public.

  • 1.  cleaning masonry

    Posted 12-18-2019 08:02 AM
    I need to recommend a cleaning method to remove asphalt soot from masonry - brick, limestone, and terra cotta.  The building I'm working on is very near an industrial site where asphalt is made.  The masonry was gently cleaned about 20 years ago when an addition was added. It already needs to be cleaned again, including the addition.  Haven't found a good product that is gentle to the masonry, but will remove the oily asphalt soot.  Any recommendations?   thank you!

    Grace A.M. Smith, RA, LEED AP
    Designsmiths
    616-866-4089
    2024 HRC Taliesin West


  • 2.  RE: cleaning masonry

    Posted 12-19-2019 05:39 PM
    Cathedral Stone Products: masonRE Latex 20 is your answer:
    https://sweets.construction.com/Manufacturer/Cathedral-Stone-Products--Inc--NST1121/products/Latex-Based-Cleaner--MasonRE-Latex-20----1-Gallon-NST469100-P
    The company is very helpful for all your masonry repair, cleaning, and coating needs: info@cathedralstone.com

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    Michael Blaes AIA
    Principal
    Blaes Architects
    Webster Groves MO
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    2024 HRC Taliesin West


  • 3.  RE: cleaning masonry

    Posted 12-20-2019 09:21 AM
    Grace,

    I would recommend contacting Prosoco (https://prosoco.com/). They are a great resource for this type of cleaner and would make a proper recommendation according to the specific needs of the material and contaminant.
    Good Luck

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    Paul Levine AIA
    Owner
    Paul J. Levine, Architect
    Pittsburgh PA
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    2024 HRC Taliesin West


  • 4.  RE: cleaning masonry

    Posted 12-23-2019 11:18 PM
    I concur with the other reply regarding Prosoco. They make a number of restoration cleaners for different substrates in different strengths. The question is what will work best without doing damage.
    I believe Cathedral Stone has also come out with a variety of cleaning products.

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    Matthew Wolchko AIA
    Project Architect
    Parette Somjen Architects LLC
    Garfield NJ
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    2024 HRC Taliesin West