Frequently asked questions
We also answer
what we cannot do, up front.
For questions not covered here, please use the enquiry form or call us (03-6662-5105, weekdays).
What you can ask CRUX to do
What can I ask CRUX to do?
Washing and stain removal for stone, tile and concrete on exterior walls, entrances, floors and so on; anti-soiling treatment that makes it harder for dirt to soak in; and handing over a record of the work. We identify the cause of the soiling on site and propose only the steps that are needed. If washing alone is enough, we will tell you so.
Can I ask for work on a house (a private home)?
Yes. We also accept requests for the entrance alone. Please also ask us about entrance tiles, approaches, tiled exterior walls and so on.
How far will you come?
We accept enquiries from all over Japan. However, there are areas with no installer yet, and we may not be able to visit right away or may need time to arrange a date. We are adding installers over time. Installers near you are shown in the list of installers.
What kind of coating is XOP?
It is an anti-soiling agent that soaks into stone, tile, concrete and similar materials and makes it harder for water and oil to soak in. It is not a type that lays down a thick film, but a type that soaks into the material.
Once applied, will it never get dirty at all?
No. Dust and mud can still settle on the surface. The aim is to make it harder for water and oil to soak in, so that dirt is easier to remove. Regular cleaning is still needed after application.
Will applying it remove the dirt that is already there?
No. Washing and stain removal, which take the dirt off, and the anti-soiling treatment that follows are separate steps. We first identify the type of soiling and the material, wash, confirm that the surface is dry, and then apply the anti-soiling treatment. We do not apply it over remaining dirt.
How is it different from an ordinary water repellent?
Because XOP is fluorine-based, it repels oil as well as water. The difference shows in places where oil soaks in easily. However, no single product is necessarily the best for every use. If your aim is to change the color, hide scratches, or build a thick protective layer, we will suggest a different method.
Can it be used on my building?
What materials can it be used on?
It is for materials that absorb water. Stone such as granite and marble, unglazed tiles and joints, concrete, and so on. Even among "tiles," conditions differ with the surface finish and any previous treatment, so we check on site before deciding. It may not be suitable for materials that absorb almost no water, such as glazed tiles.
Can it be applied to an old building?
Yes. We first check the soiling, the deterioration, and any previous treatment. If there are cracks, lifting or chips, repairs may be needed first.
What if there is already wax or another coating?
We check its type and condition and, if necessary, remove it before application. If it is not clear what has been applied, we check with a test application.
What soiling it works on, and what it cannot do
Does it work on oil stains?
Being fluorine-based, it repels oil as well, making it harder for oil to soak in. However, results vary with the type of oil, how long it was left, and how worn the material is. If there is a stain that concerns you, you can check with a test application on that stain.
Will mold and moss stop growing?
We cannot say that they will stop growing. Because dirt becomes less likely to settle, we think mold and moss are less likely to find a foothold. Even if they do grow, they are easier to remove. In shaded places or where water collects, we will also suggest measures such as improving drainage.
Can it stop efflorescence (white deposits) too?
We decide after finding out where the water is getting in. Making the surface less likely to absorb water is different from stopping substances that come out from inside or from behind. We cannot say that anti-soiling treatment alone will remove all efflorescence.
Can you deal with the black stains around sealant (sealant staining)?
Yes. We determine whether it is surface dirt or oil from the sealant that has soaked into the stone, and deal with it by combining stain removal with anti-soiling treatment.
Can I consult you about stains other companies could not remove?
Yes, please consult us. However, before seeing the site, we do not promise that "everything will definitely come off." We check the material, the depth of the stain, and any chemicals used before, and based on test results we explain how clean it can be made and what is likely to remain.
Can it replace exterior repainting or waterproofing work?
No. Cracks, damaged joints and rain leaks are not fixed by anti-soiling treatment. We will advise separately on any repairs or waterproofing work that are needed.
Will it fix scratches or fading too?
No. Removing dirt can improve the appearance, but scratches, chips and discoloration of the material itself call for separate consideration of polishing, repair or replacement.
Appearance, and during the work
Will the color or sheen change?
It is a type that is unlikely to change the look and texture much. However, some materials may take on a color closer to that of being slightly wet. Please check on a dry test area before full application.
Can I see the finish before full application?
Yes. We recommend carrying out a test application in an inconspicuous spot and having you look at the color, sheen and how dirt comes off once it has dried. Test applications are free in most cases. If there are limits on scope or a cost is involved, the installer in charge will tell you in advance.
Is there an odor? Can the work be done while the business is open, or while we are living there?
It is not work that gives off a strong odor, but as this varies with the cleaning agent used, we discuss ventilation and the work area with you in advance. Dividing the work by section or time of day can sometimes reduce the effect on business or daily life. We tell you in advance which areas cannot be used and when, and when they can be used again.
Process and cost
How does it proceed after I get in touch?
On-site survey (assessment) → proposal of the method and estimate → application → handover of the work record. Depending on the scale, the work takes from one day to several weeks.
Is there any charge before the estimate?
The on-site survey and estimate are free. Where there are costs, such as for distant locations or when scaffolding is needed, the installer in charge will tell you in advance.
How much is it per square meter?
It varies with the material and the state of the soiling, the area, the washing involved, scaffolding, and the hours of work. In the estimate, we show washing and stain removal, substrate repair, anti-soiling treatment, and scaffolding and protection separately, and state clearly what is not included.
How many years it lasts, and after application
How many years does the effect last?
How the effect lasts varies greatly with sunlight, how rain falls on the surface, foot traffic, and how the material wears. For that reason, we do not promise that it will last a certain number of years. You can check its condition through the work record and an annual inspection (paid).
Is there a warranty?
We do not offer a warranty. This is because the environment differs from site to site, and we cannot promise the same number of years. Instead, we keep a record of what was applied and when, and hand it to you.
After application, will I no longer need to clean?
No. Regular cleaning is still needed. Please wipe up spilled oil or drinks promptly. After application, we tell you which detergents and tools you may use, and which cleaning methods are best avoided.
Can I have inspections or consultations after application?
We offer an annual inspection under a paid annual contract. The results of each inspection are added to the record. If repairs are needed, we explain what they involve and what they cost, and carry them out for a separate fee.