Cary Chamber of Commerce | Exterior Cleaning

Client

The Cary Chamber of Commerce is a prominent organization dedicated to the economic development and business growth of Cary, North Carolina. Located in the heart of Cary, the Chamber plays a key role in supporting local businesses and fostering the community engagement. Over the years, Powerful Solutions has established a strong and trusted relationship with the Chamber, assisting them with a variety of exterior cleaning needs to ensure their headquarters reflects their professional standards.

Project Overview

The Cary Chamber of Commerce approached us to assess and prove a comprehensive quote for multiple exterior cleaning services, including roof washing (metal), building pressure washing, concrete, and paver cleaning. These areas had become severely impacted by organic growth and grime buildup, detracting from the aesthetic appeal of the building.

The project involved:

• Metal roof cleaning

• Precast coping treatment

• Building pressure washing

• Concrete and paver cleaning

Our mission was to restore the exterior surface while ensuring minimal disruption to their daily operations.

Initial Condition

Upon inspection, we discovered thick layers of organic growth covering the metal roof, particularly affecting the back section of the building. The organic matter included dirt, grim, algae, and mildew, deeply embedded into the surface. Additionally, the precast coping band that circles the front of the building was stained and required a specialized cleaning approach.

The building's exterior walls had accumulated dirt and pollutants over time, further diminishing its appearance. The concrete and paver areas around the building were also worn, with dirt ingrained in the surface and potential erosion of sand between the pavers if the wrong pressure was applied.

Specific Challenges

1. Thick Organic Growth on Roof: The roof's organic buildup was substantial, requiring careful handling to avoid damaging the metal surface while ensuring the complete removal of all organic matter.

2. Precast Coping Band: The precast coping band around the required special treatment due to its material and position. A delicate cleaning solution was necessary to avoid damage while effectively cleaning the band.

3. Paver Surface Sensitivity: The concrete and pavers required special attention to prevent sand displacement, which could lead to uneven surfaces or damage.

4. Uniform Finish: Ensuring that the cleaning of the roof, building exterior, and concrete all resulted in a uniform finish different material and surfaces was critical to maintaining the Chamber's appearance.

Project Execution

Step-by-Step Process

1. Roof Cleaning:

   1. Assessment: Our technicians thoroughly assessed the extent of organic growth, particularly focusing on the most affected areas at the rear of the building.

   2. Cleaning Agent Application: Using a diaphragm pump, we applied an industry specific mildewcide solution designed to break down organic material without harming the metal roof. To ensure precise control of the cleaning agent, we utilized metered GF valves, which allowed us to measure and adjust the proportion of the solutions to match the severity of the organic growth.

   3. Fresh Water Rinse: A second technician followed with fresh water to rinse the roof, ensuring the cleaning agent was fully removed and a uniform finish was achieved. A third technician, serving as the lead, over saw the roof cleaning process, ensuring the safety of the roof and proper technique.

2. Precast Coping Band:

   1. Specialized Treatment: We applied the same diaphragm pump technique to the coping band, using a gentler solution tailored for precast materials, again utilizing metered GF valves to control the solution's strength.

   2. Rinsing: Once the cleaning solution had adequately dwelled and loosened the buildup, a freshwater rinse ensured no residues were left, providing a clean and uniform look to the front of the building.

3. Building Pressure Washing:

   1. Cleaning Agent Application: The building's exterior walls were treated with a downstream pump method to safely apply a cleaning agent that would break down dirt and pollutants, with metered GF valves, especially designed for this method, ensuring the exact concentration needed.

   2. Rinsing: As with the roof, the walls were rinsed with fresh water to achieve a consistent finish without streaking or residue.

4. Concrete and Paver Cleaning:

   1. Pretreatment: The concrete and paver areas were pre-treated with a cleaning agent designed to break up dirt without disturbing the surface below.

   2. Pressure Adjustment: We then used surface cleaners, carefully lowering the pressure to prevent sand from being displaced from between the pavers.

   3. Uniform Finish: The crew meticulously worked to ensure a uniform finish on all concrete and paver surface, completing the revitalization of the Chamber's outdoor spaces.

Conclusion

The cleaning process was a complete success, leaving the Cary Chamber of Commerce with a revitalized building exterior that reflected their professional standards. The thick and organic growth on the metal roof was completely removed in just one treatment, restoring its original appearance. The precast coping band, building exterior, and concrete surfaces were all left spotless, with a consistent, uniform finish.

The Cary Chamber of Commerce was highly satisfied with the results. As a result of our successful work, we now continue to work with the Chamber on annual exterior maintenance, ensuring their property remains pristine year-round.

Powerful Solutions continues to value our long-standing relationship with the Cary Chamber of Commerce, proud to play a role in maintaining the professional image of such a vital local institution.