The Kaboutergarage in Almere is strategically located right next to the railway. Although this location is functional for logistics and accessibility, it also brings specific environmental challenges. One of the biggest problems is the constant exposure to rail dust – microscopic fine metal dust that is released by the braking and driving of trains. This dust spreads through the air and settles on buildings in the immediate vicinity, including the facade of the Kaboutergarage.
When this metal-containing dust comes into contact with rainwater or humidity, a chemical process occurs that leads to flash rust. These superficial rust stains give the facade a dirty and outdated appearance and can even damage the material in the long term if exposed continuously. For a building that is seen daily by residents, visitors and passers-by, this is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a risk of higher maintenance costs and depreciation.
Purpose of the treatment
In order to protect the facade of the Kaboutergarage against these influences and to reduce maintenance in the long term, a systematic approach was chosen:
- Thorough cleaning: The facade was first intensively cleaned with specialist agents to completely remove existing rust, rail dust and other contaminants. This was essential to guarantee good adhesion of the coating and to create a clean base.
- Application of 1C Perma Coat: After the surface had dried, the facade was treated with 1C Perma Coat, a high-quality, transparent one-component coating with dirt and water-repellent properties. This coating forms an invisible protective layer over the facade material and prevents new contamination from easily adhering.
Colour restoration and protection result
- Hydrophobic effect: The coating ensures that water beads off the surface immediately. This prevents rain from mixing with rail dust, which greatly slows down or even completely prevents the formation of flash rust.
- Dirt-repellent: Not only water, but also fine dust and air pollution adhere less quickly, which leads to a longer clean appearance of the facade.
- Transparent protection: The original colour, structure and aesthetics of the facade are retained. There is no discolouration or change in gloss.
- Fast and efficient processing: The coating can be applied quickly without drastic construction measures, which minimises inconvenience to users or residents.
- Environmentally friendly maintenance: Thanks to the protective layer, less frequent and less intensive cleaning is required. This saves water, energy and cleaning agents.
Long-term result and impact
The treatment with 1C Perma Coat not only provides an immediately visible result on a fresh, clean facade without rust formation, but also contributes to the preservation of the building in the long term. The maintenance frequency is reduced, the appearance remains representative, and the lifespan of the facade material is extended. This makes it a sustainable investment for both the owner and the users of the building.
Furthermore, this project shows how smart material choices and targeted treatments can contribute to controlling environmental influences caused by infrastructure and urban location. The Kaboutergarage is an example of how technology and aesthetics can go hand in hand in modern building maintenance.
