Part of the Kilwaughter Group
Maintenance
ENSURING THE LONGEVITY OF YOUR PROPERTY
You should inspect your K Systems solution including the external facade, all movement joints and silicone seals on a periodic basis. An inspection is recommended following the completion of any work or the installation of new equipment on your property by any other contractors or tradesman.
To keep your property in pristine condition, we recommend cleaning the external facade of your property every 5 years as a minimum.
Any subsequent attachments and/or external fixtures fixed to the surface of the system must be installed in accordance with our specification requirements using K Systems approved mechanical fixings.
You can read more about our aftercare and maintenance advice in our guide below.
aftercare & maintenance guide
SILICONE RENDER MAINTENANCE
Cleaning the render is generally advised after a few years. This will sharpen the aesthetic look & rejuvenate the finished façade by removing any organic growth, bird droppings & film of weathering found on surface.
The surface can be cleaned using a pressure washer with clean water and a low concentration of mild detergent. The washer should be set on fan application, not high power, (very high pressure washers can damage the render surface). Carefully clean the render surface, in a controlled fashion, working from top to bottom.
HOW TO TREAT ALGAE
Algae is an organic growth which will grow on any surface which remains damp for prolonged periods. Locations with nearby woodland or other sources of spores are more prone.
The presence of algae will not adversely affect the long term performance of the render.
To remove algae from affected substrates, use a biocide or algaecide such as K Systems Algae Clean. This is available from any good general hardware or merchant’s suppliers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions during application and use of the product.
ADDING ATTACHMENTS TO YOUR EXTERNAL FACADE
Exterior attachments, fixed to the finished surface render, can cause staining issues. Items include satellite dish brackets, L Brackets for hanging baskets, light fixings, vents etc.
All metal brackets used should be stainless steel. Cheaper metal brackets, which are mass produced, are likely not to be stainless steel and, if the paint flakes off, may cause staining to the render surface.
PLANNING A DIY PROJECT?
Care should be taken when access for other trades is required. The render can be damaged by sharp objects brushing against the finished render surface, particularly with repeated access.
Ladders will be used by other trades who need to maintain existing external services or additional add components to the finished façade. Ladder socks for Aluminium ladders should be used.
If independent scaffolds is erected using towers or similar (where access is required at height for roof, gutter, soffit & facias replacement), protection should be provided where scaffold butts (touches) the finished render. This will help avoid all potential damage to the finished render.
