Issue 44 winter 24 - Journal - Page 50
Stonehealth founder
warns over imposter
machinery and methods
The founder of stone conservation and restoration pioneers Stonehealth has warned specifiers and
building owners of the risk of using inferior machinery and unqualified practitioners.
Brian Crowe said that since the latest iteration of
the iconic Doff III machine launched earlier this year,
increasing numbers of reports were coming in of
impostor and incorrect machinery being used on sensitive
restoration projects.
“What we are often finding is that our products are specified for projects but then, to save costs, inferior machinery
is used by unqualified personnel.
Instances included chemical damage to stonework,
excessive pressure blowing out sensitive lime mortar joints
and stripping of surface layers of masonry.
“Our unique system enables high temperature steam - 150
degrees C at the nozzle end - to be gently applied when
cleaning masonry. Any reduction in temperature must be
compensated for by increased pressure, which is where
damage can occur.
The company has even discovered a photo showing a
competitor machine being used on a project in Scotland
while carrying a Doff sticker in an attempt to appear
authentic.
“One of our other products, the Torc, is able to carefully
use granulate and a gentle swirling vortex to clean delicate
masonry. Inferior products will result in damage to the
surface.
Such deceitful activity could lead to legal action either
from specifiers or from Stonehealth.
“While this is a serious issue for our business - we risk
suffering damage to our brand - we have a major concern
about the impact on our heritage buildings.
“For the past 30 years we have created a reputation as the
leaders in our field,” said Mr Crowe. “So while in a way
it’s a compliment to have impostors pretending to be us,
it’s not one that we welcome.
Below, Brian Crowe with the new Doff III
“If damage is done, it’s irreversible. If you remove the
surface of stone or brick then you can’t get it back. If there
are any doubts over the credibility of machinery and
operatives, then contact us.”
