Cleaning up after applying Thompson's Water Seal primarily involves cleaning the application equipment immediately after use.
Here is a guide on how to clean up after using Thompson's Water Seal:
Essential Cleanup Steps for Equipment
According to the product information, the key to cleaning up after using Thompson's Water Seal lies in prompt action on your tools.
- Remove Excess Product: Before you begin cleaning, scrape or wipe off as much of the remaining Thompson's Water Seal product as possible from your brushes, rollers, or sprayers. This reduces the amount you need to wash out.
- Clean Immediately: All equipment should be cleaned immediately after use. Do not let the product dry on the tools.
- Use Detergent and Warm Water: The recommended cleaning solution is detergent and warm water. Wash all equipment thoroughly using this mixture.
Taking these steps ensures your equipment is clean and ready for future use, preventing the sealant from hardening and making cleanup difficult or impossible.
Why Immediate Cleaning is Crucial
Thompson's Water Seal is designed to penetrate and protect surfaces. If allowed to dry on application equipment, it can form a durable, water-resistant layer that is very difficult to remove. Cleaning immediately with detergent and warm water helps to break down and wash away the product before it cures on your tools.
Cleaning Different Types of Equipment
The general principle of using detergent and warm water applies to most tools used for application:
- Brushes: Swish thoroughly in the detergent and warm water solution. Use a brush comb if needed to separate bristles and remove all traces of the sealant. Rinse well with clean water.
- Rollers: Submerge the roller cover in the solution and agitate. Squeeze out the solution and repeat until the water runs clear. Remove the cover from the frame and clean the frame as well.
- Sprayers: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the specific sprayer model, typically involving running the detergent and warm water solution through the pump and hose until it sprays clear, followed by a clean water rinse.
Cleanup Summary Table
Here’s a quick overview of the recommended cleanup process for your application equipment:
| Step | Action | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Remove Excess | Scrape or wipe product from tools. | Do this before washing. |
| 2. Wash Equipment | Use detergent and warm water. | Immediately after use. Do not delay. |
| 3. Rinse | Rinse thoroughly with clean water. | Ensure all soap and product residue is gone. |
Remember, Thompson's Water Seal is typically dry to the touch in about 2 hours under normal conditions, highlighting the importance of cleaning equipment promptly before the product starts to set.
