THE CHALLENGE
The exterior Jerusalem stone wall of a residential property in Brooklyn, New York, faced severe structural damage due to the harsh winter climate of the region. Multiple freeze/thaw cycles had taken a toll on the wall, creating cracks and compromising its structural integrity. The inherent porous nature of natural stone surfaces, exacerbated by the freeze/thaw cycle, led to water absorption, expansion, and subsequent damage during winter months. The challenge was to find a solution that not only addressed the existing cracks and damage but also provided long-term protection against the recurring freeze/thaw cycles.
THE SOLUTION
Repair Guard, a water-borne consolidant and protectant, was the best solution for the Jerusalem stone wall in Brooklyn, New York. Its nanoparticles penetrate and chemically attach to the surface, creating a covalently interconnected system that enhances the mechanical properties of worn or deteriorated materials.
Notably, Repair Guard preserves the natural appearance, water vapor permeability, and porosity of treated surfaces without compromising “breathability.” This tailored approach ensures effective protection while respecting the historical and aesthetic aspects of the exterior surface.
Repair Guard’s water-repellant properties also protect the wall from future water ingress, preventing future damage from water ingress and freeze/thaw cycles.
6 MONTHS POST-APPLICATION RESULTS & evaluation
Post-application, Repair Guard successfully stabilized the wall, preventing further decay and structural damage. The treated surface maintained its natural appearance, water vapor permeability, and porosity, preserving the “breathability” of the substrate.
6 months after Repair Guard was applied, no signs of deterioration or changes in the treated area were observed. The wall remained resilient against the harsh weather conditions, showcasing the effectiveness of Repair Guard in providing lasting protection. Water-repellency was still visible on the treated surface.
Repair Guard proved to be a simple yet effective solution for protecting and stabilizing the surface. By addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions, Repair Guard demonstrated its ability to enhance the mechanical properties of porous surfaces, offering a reliable and long-lasting preservation solution. Not only did the water-repellent features of Repair Guard prevent future damage, keeping the surface hydrophobic means less soiling was noticeable on the treated surface. As a result, the wall also remained cleaner.
