2450 is a penetrating treatment for stabilizing and consolidating most porous brick, natural stone, unglazed terra cotta, cast stone and architectural concrete. Masonry that has been previously damaged by abrasive cleaning methods, masonry suffering from erosion and surfaces that have begun to lose their surface integrity for various reasons are often saved by the use of a treatment like 2450 Concrete and Masonry Consolident.

2450 reacts with the masonry matrix to recreate lost binders and minerals to improve the density, strength, and structural integrity of the masonry substrate. Porosity is reduced but the surface is not sealed against water vapor transport. Depending on the nature of the original surface and the amount of 2450 used, the newly treated surface should have less water absorption and reduced deterioration from acid rain attack. Unlike older technology consolidents, 2450 Concrete and Masonry Consolident is water based and does not suffer the odor, flammability, and VOC problems associated with those products. In general 2450 can penetrate more deeply than the solvent borne products which leads to better bonding of the highly consolidated surface layers with the interior structure of the masonry. This avoids the creation of stress points below the surface where highly consolidated and non-consolidated layers meet thus reducing freeze / thaw induced spalling.

As 2450 acts like a sealer or binder to the masonry, it will seal in dirt and stains, so the time to do cosmetic cleaning and improvements is before treatment. Clean all surfaces that will receive treatment with the appropriate ShoreBest restoration cleaner. Penetration and properties improvement are better on masonry that is free of dirt and organic contaminants. Provide protection for non-masonry surfaces (especially glass), foliage, vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Protect all surrounding areas and structures from possible damage, which might occur from fumes, spillage, drift or over spray during usage.

All projects should start with a test application to a properly cleaned and thoroughly dry surface to determine the suitability of the treatment and acceptable application method. Using the method to be used on the project, apply an area of 10 square feet to calculate coverage rate per gallon and to determine if there will be any unacceptable change in the appearance of the surface. Low-pressure spray application, using the wet on wet method, is the preferred method of application. Unlike most masonry cleaning projects the intent with 2450 treatment is to have as much material penetrate the substrate and be absorbed as possible. Apply a soaking spray to clean, dry masonry. Work in sections small enough so that repeat applications can be done before the surface dries out from the previous application. Depending on the porosity of the substrate and degree of improvement desired, usually three applications are specified. Before the last application is dry it is generally desirable to lightly spray or mist the treated area with clean water to drive the treatment deeper into the masonry. This is particularly important in hot dry weather when premature drying of the product can lead to unsightly and difficult to remove white deposits on the surface. Within reason, the longer the surface is kept wet, the better the overall results. Post treatment rainfall will not harm the product. In some cases, brush application may be acceptable. When possible, the test area should be left to age for 10 or more days to check for possible adverse reactions such as unacceptable darkening of the surface.