Rust splatter removal

Sometimes you can, and sometimes you can't. Removing rust isn't easy. You won't get very far without intense polishing. Mechanical polishing often has too great an impact on the top coat (it removes a small layer), which will show up in the form of stains or scratches afterwards. Inappropriate detergents are similarly more likely to cause damage than to solve your issue. This will only result in more damage, which means the parts will have to be replaced or recoated.

The coated surfaces of profiles and panels are highly sensitive, and not all chemical detergents may be suitable. 

Every project comes with risks, no matter how small. We always make an assessment of the pollution in advance. We then usually use a sample piece to minimise these risks and make sure we're using the right product. Based on our knowledge and experience, we can avoid several pitfalls and use the right technique. The correct approach may differ from project to project.

The damage highly depends on the quality of the coating. Some coatings are more resistant to rust than others. We recommend having the rust particles removed as soon as possible.

Preventive action often yields better results, so make sure to regularly sweep the horizontal parts when panels or flashings are screwed in place. Moist weather also increases the chances of iron particles getting “stuck” on the surface. The practical reality is that it's impossible to entirely prevent rust splatters when installing steel roofs and façades. Every building has a few.

If rust is left on the surface for an extended period of time, it will erode through the top coat and may damage the metal below. However, this process takes a long time. Most coatings are pretty resilient. If cleaning doesn't help, recoating is an excellent alternative solution. From our experience with projects like these, we know that cleaning will usually suffice.

Our company primarily focusses on specific pollution, such as rust, PUR residues or adhesive film residues. Since we have constant projects in this sector, we often have too little manpower for “standard cleaning services”. In some cases, however, we can perform these services in combination with other projects. You can always contact us with any questions you may have.

It's a common issue in this sector: cleaning companies use the wrong detergent or method for the polluted surface. This may lead to irreparable stains on façades or other coated components, such as frames and doors.

Van Heemskerk is usually able to provide a solution for your problem, through cleaning, recoating or even replacement. Ask us about the options and send us an email with pictures of your issue. We have already brought many of those “problematic projects” to a satisfying conclusion. On top of that, we receive advice from panels and sheeting suppliers.

The difficult thing about rust is that it will only start showing after a while. This means it could easily take a few weeks before a spot becomes visible. It's difficult to really pinpoint a cause. Prevention is better than cure, so be sure to take preventive measures, especially in moist weather. Possible causes include:

• Drill cuttings from parker screws or panels and flashings.
• Grinding work, such as on sills and mesh panels.
• Loading and unloading of materials and trailers with metal components.
• Metal components in the surrounding area or a location near train tracks.
• Advertising activities, the installation of solar panels on roof panels.
• Installing frames
• Drilling into the façade by the installer