The elimination of rubber residue from hardened cementitious surfaces is a standard upkeep concern. These darkish blemishes, usually ensuing from vehicular exercise, detract from the aesthetic enchantment of driveways, garages, and different concrete constructions. Efficient elimination methods are important for preserving the looks and structural integrity of those surfaces.
Addressing these marks contributes to property worth retention and enhances security. Amassed rubber deposits can, in some situations, cut back traction, posing a possible hazard. Traditionally, numerous mechanical and chemical strategies have been employed, every with various levels of effectiveness and potential affect on the concrete itself.
Subsequent sections will element particular cleansing brokers and methods appropriate for eradicating these marks, together with issues for floor preparation and preventative measures to attenuate future occurrences. These embrace strain washing, the appliance of degreasers, and using specialised cleansing options, every providing a novel method to restoring the concrete’s unique look.
1. Strain Washing
Strain washing serves as a elementary preliminary step in floor preparation for the elimination of tire marks from concrete. Its utility dislodges free particulate matter, facilitating the following motion of cleansing brokers and enhancing their efficacy. This course of is essential for reaching optimum outcomes.
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Floor Particles Removing
The first perform of strain washing is to get rid of free particles, equivalent to dust, mud, and small gravel particles. This particles can impede the penetration of cleansing options, rendering them much less efficient. Within the absence of thorough particles elimination, cleansing brokers could solely handle surface-level contamination, failing to deal with the embedded rubber residue inside the concrete pores.
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Loosening Rubber Deposits
Strain washing can partially dislodge rubber deposits adhering to the concrete floor. The pressure of the water stream weakens the bond between the rubber and the concrete, permitting for simpler elimination throughout subsequent cleansing levels. This preliminary loosening is especially useful for older, extra ingrained tire marks.
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Enhancing Cleansing Agent Penetration
By eradicating floor particles and partially dislodging rubber deposits, strain washing creates a extra receptive floor for cleansing brokers. This enables the chemical compounds to penetrate deeper into the concrete pores, dissolving and lifting the remaining rubber residue. Improved penetration leads to a extra thorough cleansing and reduces the probability of residual staining.
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Preparation for Additional Therapy
Strain washing not solely cleans the floor but in addition prepares it for subsequent remedies, equivalent to degreasing or the appliance of specialised cleansing options. A clear and barely porous floor created by strain washing permits these remedies to stick extra successfully, maximizing their affect. This pre-treatment ensures the total effectiveness of the general cleansing course of.
The efficient employment of strain washing, subsequently, establishes a basis for the profitable elimination of tire marks from concrete. Its potential to take away free particles, partially dislodge rubber deposits, and improve cleansing agent penetration collectively contributes to a extra thorough and lasting answer. The suitable water strain and nozzle choice are important for avoiding harm to the concrete floor.
2. Degreaser Utility
Degreaser utility constitutes a pivotal step within the strategy of eliminating tire marks from concrete surfaces. The chemical composition of tire rubber necessitates the utilization of solvents able to dissolving and emulsifying the residue. Degreasers, particularly formulated for this goal, penetrate the porous construction of concrete, breaking down the molecular bonds between the rubber particles and the cement matrix. With out efficient degreaser utility, superficial cleansing strategies alone usually show inadequate, abandoning a persistent stain.
The efficacy of degreaser utility is dependent upon a number of elements, together with the kind of degreaser used, its focus, and the period of contact with the affected floor. As an illustration, solvent-based degreasers could also be more practical on closely ingrained marks, whereas water-based degreasers provide a extra environmentally acutely aware different for lighter staining. Permitting adequate dwell time for the degreaser to react with the rubber residue is essential for optimum outcomes. Dashing this step can considerably cut back the degreaser’s effectiveness. Examples embrace utilizing a citrus-based degreaser on residential driveways versus a stronger industrial-grade degreaser in a industrial loading dock space.
In abstract, degreaser utility is an indispensable ingredient within the profitable elimination of tire marks from concrete. Its potential to chemically dissolve and emulsify rubber residue permits for a extra thorough cleansing than mechanical strategies alone can obtain. Challenges stay in choosing the suitable degreaser for the particular sort and severity of staining, in addition to guaranteeing correct utility methods to maximise its effectiveness. This course of considerably influences the general success of eradicating tire marks and contributes to the aesthetic preservation of concrete surfaces.
3. Concrete Sealant
The applying of concrete sealant represents a proactive measure in mitigating the buildup of tire marks and facilitating their future elimination. Sealants create a protecting barrier, limiting the direct interplay between rubber compounds and the porous concrete floor. This barrier reduces the penetration of rubber residue, simplifying subsequent cleansing efforts.
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Prevention of Rubber Penetration
Concrete sealants perform by lowering the porosity of the concrete floor. This diminished porosity inhibits the penetration of tire rubber into the concrete’s microscopic voids. By limiting penetration, sealants stop the deep staining that may happen when rubber particles grow to be embedded inside the concrete matrix. Examples embrace acrylic sealants, which kind a skinny, protecting movie, and penetrating sealants, which chemically react with the concrete to create a extra sturdy barrier. The implication is that much less aggressive cleansing strategies could also be adequate to take away tire marks from sealed surfaces in comparison with unsealed ones.
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Simplified Cleansing Procedures
The presence of a sealant layer simplifies the cleansing course of by stopping direct bonding between the tire rubber and the concrete. Tire marks on sealed surfaces have a tendency to stay on the sealant layer fairly than penetrating the concrete itself. This enables for simpler elimination utilizing milder cleansing brokers and fewer abrasive methods, equivalent to easy washing with cleaning soap and water or light strain washing. The sealant successfully acts as a sacrificial layer, bearing the brunt of the contamination whereas defending the underlying concrete.
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Prolonged Concrete Lifespan
Whereas primarily meant to facilitate stain elimination, concrete sealants additionally contribute to the prolonged lifespan of the concrete itself. By stopping the ingress of varied contaminants, together with water, salts, and oils, sealants defend the concrete from weathering, freeze-thaw harm, and chemical assault. This not directly reduces the probability of floor degradation that would exacerbate the adhesion of tire rubber, making the concrete extra inclined to staining. The advantages of sealants prolong past aesthetic issues, contributing to the long-term structural integrity of the concrete floor.
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Enhanced Aesthetic Enchantment
Past their practical advantages, concrete sealants usually improve the aesthetic enchantment of the floor. Some sealants impart a shiny or matte end, enhancing the general look of the concrete and making it extra visually interesting. This may be notably fascinating in residential driveways or industrial parking areas the place look is a priority. A well-maintained, sealed concrete floor tasks a cleaner and extra skilled picture in comparison with an unsealed floor that could be stained or discolored. Moreover, some sealants are designed to be coloured, permitting the concrete to be tinted in numerous hues.
In conclusion, the implementation of concrete sealant methods performs an important position in minimizing the challenges related to eradicating tire marks. Sealants cut back the probability of deep staining, simplify cleansing procedures, and contribute to the long-term preservation of the concrete floor, thereby enhancing each its performance and aesthetic enchantment. The choice of an acceptable sealant sort must be rigorously thought-about based mostly on the particular environmental circumstances and the anticipated stage of site visitors.
4. Floor Abrasion
Floor abrasion methods signify a bodily methodology for eradicating tire marks from concrete. This method entails the mechanical elimination of the outermost layer of the concrete floor, together with the embedded tire rubber. The suitability of floor abrasion is dependent upon the severity of the staining, the kind of concrete, and the specified consequence, on condition that it may possibly alter the floor texture and look.
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Grinding
Grinding makes use of abrasive instruments, equivalent to diamond grinding wheels or rotary grinders, to take away a skinny layer of concrete. This methodology is efficient for deeply embedded tire marks that resist chemical cleansing. Nevertheless, grinding can depart a noticeable texture distinction on the concrete floor, doubtlessly requiring subsequent resurfacing or coating to realize a uniform look. An instance of its utility can be in an industrial setting the place aesthetic issues are secondary to the entire elimination of contaminants.
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Sandblasting
Sandblasting, or abrasive blasting, employs a pressurized stream of abrasive particles (e.g., sand, silica, or different media) to erode the concrete floor. This system is appropriate for eradicating floor stains and minor imperfections, together with tire marks. The aggressiveness of sandblasting might be managed by adjusting the strain and the kind of abrasive used. Sandblasting can roughen the concrete floor, offering a greater grip for coatings or sealants, however it additionally generates mud and requires correct containment and security precautions.
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Scraping and Wire Brushing
For lighter tire marks or as a preliminary step earlier than different abrasion strategies, scraping with a stiff scraper or utilizing a wire brush might be efficient. These handbook methods are much less aggressive and permit for focused elimination of floor residue. They’re notably helpful for small areas or for eradicating free rubber deposits. The effectiveness of scraping and wire brushing is dependent upon the adhesion energy of the tire rubber and the bodily effort utilized.
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Concerns and Limitations
Floor abrasion methods, whereas efficient, have limitations. They’ll alter the concrete’s floor profile, doubtlessly affecting its slip resistance or aesthetic qualities. Overly aggressive abrasion can harm the concrete, resulting in structural weakening or accelerated put on. Furthermore, these strategies generate mud and particles, requiring acceptable security measures and disposal procedures. Subsequently, cautious analysis and managed utility are essential when using floor abrasion for tire mark elimination.
The selection of floor abrasion methodology is dependent upon a cautious evaluation of the particular state of affairs, together with the depth and extent of the tire marks, the kind of concrete, and the specified aesthetic consequence. Whereas efficient at eradicating embedded stains, these methods necessitate a balanced method to keep away from compromising the integrity or look of the concrete floor, contributing considerably to the general technique for addressing tire mark contamination.
5. Chemical Solvents
The applying of chemical solvents represents a important part within the methodology for eradicating tire marks from concrete surfaces. These solvents possess the capability to dissolve or emulsify the rubber compounds that represent tire residue, facilitating their elimination from the porous concrete matrix. The choice of an acceptable solvent hinges on elements equivalent to the kind of tire rubber, the age and severity of the staining, and the potential affect on the concrete substrate.
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Solvent Varieties and Their Mechanisms
Varied chemical solvents are employed in tire mark elimination, every working by distinct mechanisms. Aliphatic hydrocarbons, equivalent to mineral spirits, act as non-polar solvents, dissolving non-polar parts inside the rubber residue. Fragrant hydrocarbons, equivalent to toluene and xylene, exhibit a better solvency energy however pose higher well being and environmental dangers. Oxygenated solvents, together with ketones and esters, provide intermediate solvency and are sometimes most popular for his or her diminished toxicity. The choice of a solvent ought to contemplate its compatibility with the concrete, its evaporative price, and its potential for inflicting discoloration or harm. For instance, a ketone-based solvent could be chosen for its potential to dissolve artificial rubber compounds, whereas an aliphatic hydrocarbon could be most popular for eradicating much less cussed marks from a porous concrete driveway. The mechanism of motion of a chemical solvent entails penetrating the rubber matrix, weakening its structural integrity, and enabling its dispersal or lifting from the concrete floor.
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Utility Methods
Efficient solvent utility is crucial for maximizing its affect. Usually, the solvent is utilized on to the affected space, allowed to dwell for a specified interval, after which agitated with a brush or material to loosen the residue. The period of dwell time is dependent upon the solvent’s efficiency and the severity of the staining. Agitation aids in disrupting the bond between the rubber and the concrete, facilitating the solvent’s penetration. Strain washing or rinsing with water is often employed to take away the dissolved or emulsified rubber and the residual solvent. Security precautions, together with air flow and protecting gear, are paramount throughout solvent utility. Improper utility can result in incomplete stain elimination or potential harm to the concrete floor. As an illustration, an extended dwell time could also be vital for eradicating deeply ingrained tire marks, whereas shorter dwell instances are preferable to stop extreme solvent absorption into the concrete.
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Security and Environmental Concerns
Using chemical solvents necessitates cautious consideration of security and environmental implications. Many solvents are risky natural compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air air pollution and pose well being dangers by inhalation or pores and skin contact. Correct air flow, using respirators, and the sporting of protecting gloves and clothes are important to attenuate publicity. Moreover, the disposal of solvent-contaminated waste should adjust to native, state, and federal laws to stop environmental contamination. Environmentally pleasant solvent alternate options, equivalent to bio-based solvents derived from renewable sources, are more and more out there and provide a extra sustainable method to tire mark elimination. A steadiness between solvent effectiveness and environmental accountability is essential in choosing and utilizing chemical solvents for concrete cleansing.
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Potential for Concrete Injury
Whereas chemical solvents are efficient at dissolving rubber residue, they will additionally pose a threat of injury to the concrete substrate. Sure solvents could react with the concrete’s parts, resulting in discoloration, etching, or weakening of the floor. Solvent absorption into the concrete may also have an effect on its long-term sturdiness. Subsequently, it’s essential to check the solvent on an not easily seen space of the concrete earlier than making use of it to the complete floor. Using acceptable dilution ratios and limiting the contact time may also help mitigate the chance of injury. Moreover, thorough rinsing with water after solvent utility is crucial to take away any residual chemical compounds that would trigger long-term results. The potential for concrete harm underscores the necessity for cautious solvent choice and managed utility methods.
In conclusion, the strategic utility of chemical solvents represents a priceless method within the elimination of tire marks from concrete. The selection of solvent, the appliance methodology, and the consideration of security and environmental elements are essential determinants of its effectiveness and potential affect. Cautious choice and accountable use are vital to realize optimum outcomes whereas minimizing dangers to human well being and the integrity of the concrete floor. The suitable use of those substances contribute considerably to the upkeep of a clear and aesthetically pleasing surroundings and contribute on to “methods to get tire marks off concrete.”
6. Rinsing Completely
Thorough rinsing constitutes a elementary, but usually ignored, stage in any process designed to take away tire marks from concrete. Insufficient rinsing can negate the consequences of even the simplest cleansing brokers, abandoning residue that pulls dust, causes discoloration, and even damages the concrete floor over time. This stage is important for the entire elimination of contaminants and the restoration of the concrete’s unique look.
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Removing of Residual Cleansing Brokers
Cleansing brokers, whereas efficient at dissolving tire rubber, usually include chemical compounds that may be detrimental if left on the concrete. Degreasers, solvents, and detergents can depart behind residues that entice dust, create slippery surfaces, or react with the concrete itself, resulting in discoloration or etching. Thorough rinsing with clear water ensures that these residues are utterly eliminated, stopping any long-term harm or aesthetic points. For instance, leaving a powerful degreaser on concrete with out rinsing could cause the concrete to lighten or develop a chalky texture. Dilution is essential within the rinsing course of.
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Neutralization of pH
Many cleansing brokers have a pH that deviates considerably from impartial. Acidic cleaners can etch concrete, whereas alkaline cleaners can depart a residue that promotes the expansion of mildew and mildew. Thorough rinsing helps to neutralize the pH of the concrete floor, restoring it to a extra steady and balanced state. That is notably essential when utilizing robust chemical compounds that may drastically alter the concrete’s pH. Failure to neutralize the floor may result in accelerated degradation of the concrete and the re-emergence of stains. The water ought to change readability and never create bubbles when full.
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Elimination of Dislodged Rubber Particles
The cleansing course of usually dislodges small particles of tire rubber that stay on the concrete floor. These particles, if not eliminated, can re-adhere to the concrete, inflicting a recurrence of the stain. Thorough rinsing flushes away these particles, guaranteeing a clear and residue-free floor. Utilizing a high-pressure nozzle at a secure distance can successfully take away these particles with out damaging the concrete. The water must be freed from particulate matter and the cleansing space clear.
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Prevention of Future Staining
By eradicating all traces of cleansing brokers and dislodged rubber particles, thorough rinsing helps to stop future staining. A clear and residue-free floor is much less prone to entice dust and dirt, lowering the probability of recent tire marks forming. This proactive method simplifies future cleansing efforts and helps to keep up the concrete’s look over time. A correctly rinsed floor creates a clean canvas the place preventative measures can utilized and forestall re-occurring stains.
In conclusion, thorough rinsing is an indispensable step within the strategy of “methods to get tire marks off concrete.” It ensures the entire elimination of contaminants, neutralizes the pH of the floor, eliminates dislodged rubber particles, and prevents future staining. Neglecting this stage can compromise the effectiveness of the cleansing course of and result in long-term harm or aesthetic points. The process should be carried out with diligence and a focus to element with a purpose to obtain optimum outcomes and protect the integrity of the concrete. The objective must be to take away stains with the fewest steps for efficient elimination of “methods to get tire marks off concrete”.
7. Security Precautions
The act of eradicating tire marks from concrete inherently entails potential hazards necessitating strict adherence to security protocols. The cleansing brokers employed, usually containing corrosive or risky substances, pose dangers of chemical burns, respiratory irritation, or environmental contamination. Mechanical strategies, equivalent to strain washing or abrasive blasting, introduce the potential for bodily harm from high-pressure streams or flying particles. Neglecting security precautions throughout these procedures can result in hostile well being outcomes or property harm, instantly undermining the target of reaching a clear and secure surroundings. For instance, insufficient air flow whereas making use of solvent-based cleaners may end up in respiratory misery, whereas failure to put on eye safety throughout strain washing could cause critical eye accidents. Such incidents underscore the important significance of integrating security measures into the cleansing course of.
The implementation of acceptable security measures throughout tire mark elimination encompasses a number of key areas. These embrace using private protecting gear (PPE), equivalent to gloves, eye safety, and respirators, to attenuate publicity to hazardous substances. Satisfactory air flow is essential when working with risky chemical compounds. Correct dealing with and disposal procedures are vital to stop environmental contamination. Moreover, clear communication and consciousness of potential hazards are important to make sure the protection of all personnel concerned. For instance, a worksite security plan may define the particular PPE necessities, air flow procedures, and emergency protocols within the occasion of a chemical spill. Common security coaching can reinforce these practices and promote a tradition of security consciousness. Ignoring these precautions may end up in extreme well being points that are avoidable by strict implementation of “security precautions” requirements.
In conclusion, security precautions are usually not merely ancillary issues however integral parts of any technique aimed toward eradicating tire marks from concrete. The dangers related to cleansing brokers and mechanical strategies mandate the constant utility of acceptable security protocols. Failure to prioritize security can result in preventable accidents, environmental harm, and authorized liabilities. Subsequently, a complete understanding and diligent implementation of security precautions are important for reaching efficient and accountable tire mark elimination. The follow of secure and acceptable protocols is a part of “methods to get tire marks off concrete,” contributing in the direction of a secure and wholesome surroundings.
Regularly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the elimination of tire marks from concrete surfaces. The knowledge supplied goals to supply readability and steerage on efficient methods and greatest practices.
Query 1: What’s the major reason for tire marks on concrete?
Tire marks on concrete usually outcome from the switch of rubber compounds from tires to the concrete floor. This happens when tires expertise friction, equivalent to throughout braking, acceleration, or turning, abandoning residue that adheres to the porous concrete.
Query 2: Is strain washing alone adequate to take away all tire marks?
Strain washing can take away free particles and surface-level rubber residue. Nevertheless, deeply embedded tire marks usually require further cleansing brokers or methods, equivalent to degreasers or floor abrasion, to realize full elimination.
Query 3: What sort of degreaser is handiest for eradicating tire marks?
The effectiveness of a degreaser is dependent upon the sort and severity of the tire marks. Solvent-based degreasers are usually more practical for closely ingrained marks, whereas water-based degreasers provide a extra environmentally pleasant possibility for lighter staining. Citrus-based degreasers can be efficient.
Query 4: Does concrete sealant stop tire marks completely?
Concrete sealant reduces the penetration of rubber into the concrete floor, making future cleansing simpler. Nevertheless, sealant doesn’t completely stop tire marks; it merely minimizes their adherence and simplifies their elimination.
Query 5: Are there any dangers related to utilizing chemical solvents on concrete?
Sure chemical solvents can harm or discolor concrete if not used correctly. It’s essential to check the solvent on an not easily seen space earlier than making use of it to the complete floor and to observe all security precautions, together with air flow and protecting gear.
Query 6: How can the recurrence of tire marks be minimized?
Minimizing recurrence entails addressing the elements that contribute to tire mark formation, equivalent to lowering abrupt braking and turning, making use of concrete sealant, and implementing common cleansing schedules to stop the buildup of rubber residue.
The important thing to efficient tire mark elimination lies in a complete method that mixes acceptable cleansing brokers, methods, and preventative measures. Cautious consideration of the particular circumstances and adherence to security pointers are important.
The next part will summarize the optimum methodologies for sustaining concrete surfaces and stopping tire mark accumulation.
Ideas for Efficient Tire Mark Removing from Concrete
Attaining optimum leads to eradicating tire marks from concrete requires a methodical method. The next suggestions are designed to boost the effectivity and longevity of cleansing efforts.
Tip 1: Start with Floor Preparation: Completely take away free particles, equivalent to dust and gravel, earlier than making use of any cleansing brokers. This preparation permits for higher penetration of the cleansing answer.
Tip 2: Choose the Applicable Cleansing Agent: Think about the severity of the staining and the kind of concrete floor. Solvent-based degreasers are usually more practical for cussed marks, whereas environmentally pleasant alternate options are appropriate for lighter residue.
Tip 3: Permit Satisfactory Dwell Time: Allow the chosen cleansing agent to stay on the affected space for the advisable period. This enables the answer to successfully break down the rubber compounds.
Tip 4: Make use of Mechanical Agitation: Make the most of a stiff brush or scrubbing device to agitate the cleansing agent. This motion loosens the tire mark residue and facilitates its elimination.
Tip 5: Rinse Completely: Guarantee full elimination of all cleansing brokers and dislodged rubber particles. Residual chemical compounds could cause discoloration or harm to the concrete floor.
Tip 6: Think about Concrete Sealant Utility: Submit-cleaning, apply a concrete sealant to guard the floor and cut back the adherence of future tire marks. This step simplifies subsequent cleansing efforts.
Tip 7: Prioritize Security: All the time put on acceptable private protecting gear, together with gloves and eye safety, when dealing with cleansing chemical compounds. Guarantee sufficient air flow within the work space.
The following tips define the important thing steps towards reaching a cleaner, extra aesthetically pleasing concrete floor. Implementing these methods maximizes the effectiveness of stain elimination efforts and reduces the probability of future points.
The next part presents a conclusive abstract of the strategies and ideas mentioned all through this text.
Conclusion
The previous examination of strategies associated to “methods to get tire marks off concrete” has detailed a spread of methods, spanning preventative measures to direct remediation methods. The effectiveness of every method hinges on the particular circumstances, together with the severity of the staining, the kind of concrete floor, and the choice of acceptable cleansing brokers. Security issues stay paramount all through the complete course of.
Efficient administration of those stains contributes to the preservation of property worth and the enhancement of security. The knowledge offered gives a framework for knowledgeable decision-making relating to concrete upkeep, selling each aesthetic enchancment and long-term structural integrity. Future developments in cleansing applied sciences could provide extra environment friendly options, however the elementary ideas outlined herein will proceed to offer a stable basis for addressing this ongoing upkeep problem.
