Sometimes it is possible, sometimes it is not. Removing rust is not easy; without vigorous scrubbing, you often don’t get very far. This mechanical scrubbing often has too much impact on the topcoat (it removes a layer) and this appears as spots or scratches. Also, the wrong products often cause more damage than they provide satisfactory results. This often leads to more damage, and parts may then need to be replaced or repainted.

Coated surfaces of profiles and panels are very sensitive to scrubbing and are not suitable for every chemical agent.

The deterioration is closely related to the quality of the applied coating; some coatings are more resistant than others. It is advised to remove rust particles as soon as possible.

Preventive measures yield better results, so especially regularly wipe down horizontal surfaces when screws are used with sheet metal or panels. In humid weather, the likelihood of rust sticking is also greater. In practice, when working with steel roofs and façades, some minimal rust spots are really unavoidable, as everything is screwed together, and every building has some.

This phenomenon is quite common in the market, with cleaning companies applying the wrong products for the substrate or processing them incorrectly. This can lead to irreversible stains on façades or other coated materials such as window frames and doors.

At van Heemskerk, there is usually a solution for your problem, whether it involves cleaning, repainting, or even replacing. Inquire about the possibilities; send an email with photos and your question. We have successfully completed many of these ‘problem projects.’ We are also advised by suppliers of panels and cladding.

The difficult part is that rust only reveals itself after a long time; it can take several weeks before the speck is seen. It is hard to pinpoint who or what causes it. Prevention is better than cure, so work preventively, especially in humid weather. Some possible causes can be:

• Screw fasteners from panels and sheet metal.
• Grinding activities, such as threshold irons and steel mats.
• Loading and unloading materials and iron-containing trailers.
• Iron-rich surrounding terrain or being located next to railway tracks.
• Advertising activities, installing solar panels on roof panels.
• Installing window frames.
• Drilling into the façade by installers.