MAINTAINING YOUR PAINTED

PROPERTY

Looking after internal paintwork

Caution with newly painted areasCleaning of fresh paint film will damage the paint and this may require repainting to restore the desired level of finish. Avoid cleaning the paint finish until at least four weeks after application to ensure the paint has had sufficient time to fully cure. Always test the cleaning method in an inconspicuous area to ensure the cleaning process you plan to use does not alter the finish of the paint.

Cleaning internal walls and ceilingsTo maintain a freshly painted look on your internal walls or ceilings the trick is to clean them on a regular basis and to react quickly to serious stains.

Start with clean water on a rag or a nonabrasive sponge or paper towel, and rub the stain gently.

Do not saturate the cloth as this could cause runs and streaking.

If that doesn’t work, dip the rag or sponge into water mixed with a little dishwashing liquid, the milder the better.

If the stain persists, the next step would be to apply a few drops of detergent directly onto the wet sponge or cloth you’re using. For more stubborn cases, you could apply a little detergent right onto the stain.

Do not vigorously scrub the surface nor use an abrasive or strong cleaning agent as you may damage the paint finish. These areas that have been scuffed up will attract dirt more readily and you will end up with a worse looking condition.

To achieve an even finish, dry the surface with one final wipe using a soft lint free-free cloth.

Cleaning internal doors and trim Use the same process as you would with internal walls and ceilings.

Higgins has made it easy for you to keep your paintwork looking fresh for longer. This guide will show you how to care for your paintwork and extend the life of your property; not only improving the ongoing appearance of your facility but also helping to protect your investment and reduce future painting costs.

Looking after external paintwork

Contaminants, which settle on paint film, can attack the surface and cause premature coating breakdown. Regardless of the substrate type, all exterior painted surfaces will benefit greatly from an annual clean. Pay attention to areas that are not subject to regular rain exposure.

The procedures noted below will increase the life of the coating and maintain the aesthetic properties of the paint finish.

External walls, facades and associated items Prepare a bucket of warm water mixed with a detergent that is

safe for the environment.

For basic cleaning, apply with a soft-bristle cleaning brush or broom. For tough stains, use a nonabrasive nylon scrub pad.

Start at the top of the building, moving downwards to reduce streaking. Use a garden hose to rinse off each section before it dries.

To clean mold and mildew stains use a solution of 1 part bleach in 4 parts water. Rinse thoroughly while the painted surface is still wet. Remember to wear the appropriate safety equipment.

If you have a power washer use it at the lowest pressure possible. Use a wide spread fan tip and NEVER place the tip close to the wall surface. Remember, you can do serious damage to your exterior wall if improperly used.

Repairs to timberworkTimber exhibits a high level of movement as it expands and contracts in hot and cold conditions. Certain types of timber are more prone to cracking. When cracks occur in timber timely maintenance is essential as moisture readily enters the area causing blistering, mould and rotting. Rectification should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional applicator.

Repairs to steelworkAll traces of rust must be removed via mechanical means then spot primed and top coated. This should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional applicator.

Fire and safety precautions

Storage – paint should be stored in dry, shaded conditions away from heat and ignition sources.

Ventilation – the use of suitable ventilation during painting operations should be promoted.

Ignition – painting should only be undertaken when all naked lights and unprotected electrical equipment have been removed from the area.

Waste disposal – any waste should be dealt with in accordance with prevalent local requirements.Whatever it takes

Ongoing maintenance

Timely, scheduled maintenance of your paintwork minimises or even eliminates costly repairs and replacements. Painting therefore should be an integral part of your preventive maintenance painting program. By establishing an ongoing washing and maintenance painting program you will ensure the integrity of painted surfaces and longevity of painted surfaces.

Planned periodic maintenance painting does not mean that all surfaces should be painted regardless of the condition of the existing coating. It is neither technically correct nor economically expedient to paint when there is no need for it. Some surface might only require annual washing or cleaning. You will also observe, that the paint finish on different exterior walls do not deteriorate at the same rate. In general, you will find that the west wall will first show signs of break-down, followed later by the north wall, then the east wall and finally the south wall.

For over 65 years Higgins have lead the painting industry with innovative maintenance painting solutions. Our Maintenance painting model can be applied to any facility and is tailored to suit every financial scenario.

Lower painting costs, by maintaining assets before

they deteriorate

Substantial savings on the costs typically

associated with reactive painting

A detailed audit and budget is

provide for planned maintenance on an annual basis

Warranty & peace of mind that Higgins

workmanship is consistent for the duration of the

maintenance term

The guarantee of the best possible painting solution and products for

every conceivable area of the project

What are the benefits of maintenance painting?Higgins Maintenance Painting and Finance Model provides clients with a number of significant benefits.

Protect Assets

Greater Savings

Annual Audits

Warranty Standards

For over 65 years Higgins have led the painting industry with innovative

maintenance painting solutions.

Australia 1300 HIGGINS www.higgins.com.au

New Zealand 0508 HIGGINS www.higginscoatings.co.nz