Prosoco Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent Concentrated Masonry Cleaner

Prosoco Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent – Concentrated Acidic Cleaner for Dark-Colored New Masonry

Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent is a concentrated acidic cleaner formulated specifically for dark-colored brick and tile surfaces in new masonry construction that are not subject to metallic oxidation. Proven effective since 1954, it safely removes excess mortar smears, construction dirt, and efflorescence from new brick and new stone surfaces. The product is supplied in concentrate form for easy on-site dilution, making it practical for large-scale commercial and residential masonry cleaning projects. It is ideal for masonry contractors, tile installers, and general contractors who need reliable post-construction cleanup on new masonry installations.

Unlike muriatic acid, Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent is safer for use on colored mortar joints and dark-colored new masonry surfaces, reducing the risk of discoloration or damage to finish materials. Its concentrated formula delivers strong cleaning performance with a simple cold water rinse, minimizing labor time and water usage on the job site. This product is also VOC-compliant with all national, state, and district VOC regulations, making it suitable for use across jurisdictions.

Key Features & Benefits

Concentrated Formula for On-Site Dilution

Supplied as a concentrate, 101 Lime Solvent allows contractors to mix product to the required dilution rate on site, reducing shipping weight and storage volume. This flexibility makes it cost-effective for projects of varying scale.

Safer Than Muriatic Acid

101 Lime Solvent is formulated to be safer than muriatic acid on colored mortar and dark-colored new masonry surfaces, reducing the risk of etching, staining, or discoloration. Contractors can clean confidently without compromising the finished appearance of masonry work.

Simple Cold Water Rinse

After application, spent cleaner and dissolved soiling flush away with a cold water rinse, streamlining the cleaning process. This reduces total job time and eliminates the need for specialized neutralizing agents.

Removes Efflorescence from New Construction

In addition to mortar residue and construction dirt, 101 Lime Solvent effectively removes efflorescence from new brick and new stone construction. Addressing efflorescence early during the construction phase prevents long-term staining issues for building owners.

High Coverage Rate

With a coverage rate of 500–900 sq ft per gallon depending on substrate, a single gallon of concentrate goes a long way on the job site. Contractors can accurately estimate material needs and keep project costs under control.

Long Shelf Life

101 Lime Solvent has a 3-year shelf life in a tightly sealed, unopened container, allowing contractors and distributors to stock the product without concern for rapid expiration. This reduces waste and supports efficient inventory management.

Common Applications

New Brick Masonry Cleanup

Removes mortar smears, construction dirt, and efflorescence from newly laid dark-colored brick walls and facades. Best results are achieved when cleaning is completed within 14–28 days of installation.

New Tile Surface Cleaning

Cleans excess mortar and grout residue from new dark-colored tile surfaces without damaging the tile finish. Ideal for exterior tile installations on commercial and residential buildings.

New Stone Construction

Removes efflorescence and construction soiling from new stone masonry, restoring a clean appearance to the finished surface. Not for use on polished natural stone.

High-Strength Mortar and Grout Removal

Particularly effective when applied within seven days of installation for high-strength mortar and grout smears, improving the ease of removal before full cure.

Commercial Masonry Post-Construction Cleaning

Suited for large commercial masonry projects requiring efficient, broad-area cleaning with consistent results across varied dark-colored masonry substrates.

Residential New Construction Masonry

Used by residential masonry contractors to clean new brick and tile installations before project handover, delivering a clean, professional finish to homeowners.

Compatible Materials

• Dark-colored new brick
• Dark-colored new tile surfaces
• New stone construction (non-polished)
• New masonry with colored mortar joints

Product Documents

• Product Data Sheet
• Safety Data Sheet
• Safety Data Sheet (Spanish)
• SDS Canadian French
• Build America, Buy America Act Certification

Application Instructions

Step 1: Surface Preparation

1. Clean masonry before installing non-masonry materials such as windows, doors, finished flooring, metal fixtures, hardware, light fixtures, roofing materials, or any other materials that the cleaner could harm.
2. If cleaning must occur after non-masonry materials are installed, test all adjacent substrates for compatibility before full-scale application.
3. If testing is not feasible or indicates adverse effects, protect non-masonry substrates from product splash, rinse, wind drift, and fumes using Sure Klean Strippable Masking or polyethylene sheeting.
4. Ensure all caulking and sealant materials are in place and thoroughly cured before cleaning begins.
5. When working on occupied buildings, cover all windows, exterior intake vents, and air conditioning vents, and shut down air handling equipment during application.
6. Protect open wall cavities from rain during construction to minimize efflorescence and staining prior to cleaning.
7. When working over traffic areas, schedule cleaning when traffic is at a minimum and protect or divert traffic as necessary.

Step 2: Temperature and Timing Considerations

1. Best air and masonry surface temperatures for cleaning are 40°F (4°C) or above.
2. Do not clean when temperatures are below freezing or will drop below freezing overnight, as this may harm masonry.
3. If freezing conditions exist prior to application, allow masonry to fully thaw before proceeding.
4. For best results, clean within 14–28 days of masonry installation. High-strength mortar and grout should be cleaned within seven days of installation.

Step 3: Equipment Setup

1. Apply product using a low-pressure spray system (50 psi maximum) or a densely-packed, soft-fibered masonry washing brush.
2. Do not atomize the product. Do not apply with pressure spray above 50 psi, as this drives chemicals deep into the surface and makes complete rinsing difficult.
3. Use acid-resistant rigging and safety equipment.
4. Test spray equipment for compatibility and to avoid discoloration of masonry surfaces.

Step 4: Dilution and Application

1. Dilute the concentrate on site per the Product Data Sheet recommendations for the specific substrate being cleaned.
2. Apply the diluted solution evenly to the masonry surface.
3. Refer to the Product Data Sheet for substrate-specific dilution ratios and application variations.

Step 5: Rinsing

1. Rinse thoroughly with sufficient water volume and pressure to flush spent cleaner and dissolved soiling from the masonry surface and surface pores without causing damage.
2. Inadequate rinsing leaves residues that may stain the cleaned surface — ensure a complete flush.
3. The recommended rinsing combination is masonry-washing equipment generating 400–1000 psi with a water flow rate of 6–8 gallons per minute.
4. Use a 15–45° fan spray tip for rinsing porous masonry.
5. Heated rinse water at 150–180°F (65–82°C) may improve cleaning efficiency.
6. Use adjustable equipment to reduce water flow rates and rinsing pressure as needed for sensitive surfaces.
7. Do not use rinsing pressures greater than 1000 psi or fan spray tips smaller than 15°, as these may permanently damage masonry surfaces.

Technical Specifications

Safety Data Summary

Hazard Information

• Highly acidic product (pH as low as 0.33 at use dilution) — handle with caution
• Pungent odor; ensure adequate ventilation during application
• May damage exposed low-E glass treatments, acrylic and polycarbonate sheet glazing, and glazing with surface-applied reflective, metallic, or other synthetic coatings and films
• Not for use on polished natural stone
• May cause adverse effects on non-masonry substrates if not properly protected or tested prior to application
• 24-Hour Emergency Information: INFOTRAC at 800-535-5053

Personal Protective Equipment

• Use appropriate safety equipment as specified on the full product label and Safety Data Sheet
• Use acid-resistant rigging and safety equipment during application and rinsing
• Eye and face protection recommended when handling or applying acidic cleaner
• Chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing recommended

Safe Handling

• Always read the full label and Safety Data Sheet before use
• Apply appropriate job site controls during application and handling
• Cover and protect all non-masonry substrates from product splash, wind drift, rinse water, and fumes
• Shut down air handling equipment and cover all vents and windows on occupied buildings during application
• Do not atomize; do not apply with pressure spray above 50 psi
• Store in a tightly sealed, unopened container to maintain 3-year shelf life
• Always test on a small inconspicuous area prior to full-scale application

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent be used on light-colored or white brick?
A: 101 Lime Solvent is specifically formulated for dark-colored brick and tile surfaces. For light-colored masonry, consult PROSOCO's product line for an appropriate Sure Klean cleaner suited to lighter substrates.

Q: How soon after installation should I apply 101 Lime Solvent?
A: For best results, clean within 14–28 days of masonry installation. High-strength mortar and grout should be cleaned within seven days to improve removal effectiveness. Mortar left longer becomes significantly more difficult to clean.

Q: Is 101 Lime Solvent safe to use around windows and metal fixtures?
A: No — this product may damage exposed low-E glass treatments, acrylic and polycarbonate glazing, and surface-applied reflective or metallic coatings. Always protect non-masonry materials with Sure Klean Strippable Masking or polyethylene sheeting, and complete masonry cleaning before installing such materials when possible.

Q: What dilution ratio should I use?
A: Dilution ratios vary by substrate. Refer to the Product Data Sheet for substrate-specific dilution recommendations. The product is supplied as a concentrate for on-site dilution flexibility.

Q: Can I use this product to remove stains from older masonry surfaces?
A: 101 Lime Solvent is not generally effective for removing atmospheric stains and black carbon found on older masonry surfaces. For atmospheric staining on existing masonry, use the appropriate Sure Klean restoration cleaner designed for that application.

Q: Is Sure Klean 101 Lime Solvent compliant with Build America, Buy America Act requirements?
A: PROSOCO has issued a BABA certification for 101 Lime Solvent confirming that product blending and packaging takes place in Lawrence, Kansas. PROSOCO notes that construction cleaners are generally considered out-of-scope of BABAA since they are not permanently installed or integral to building assemblies. The certification is provided as a courtesy to contractors and specifiers.