What is the best method for cleaning a building facade?
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The “best” method depends entirely on the substrate (the material of the building). For heritage stone and brickwork, DOFF Steam Cleaning is the industry standard because it uses high-temperature steam (up to 150°C) at low pressure, removing biological matter and paint without damaging the surface. For metal cladding or modern renders, a combination of specialist detergents and low-pressure rinsing is often preferred to avoid stripping protective coatings.
How often should a building facade be cleaned?
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As a general rule, commercial facades should be professionally cleaned every 3 to 5 years. However, properties in high-traffic areas like Central London or coastal regions like Kent may require more frequent maintenance due to higher levels of carbon pollutants, salt spray, and organic growth (algae and moss). Regular cleaning prevents long-term structural damage caused by pollutant buildup.
Will facade cleaning damage the brickwork or masonry?
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If performed correctly using the right equipment, cleaning will not damage the building. Damage typically occurs when untrained operators use high-pressure jet washing on delicate surfaces. We use the Stonehealth DOFF system, which is approved for use on Grade I and Grade II listed buildings because it protects the integrity of the masonry and lime mortar while achieving a deep clean.
What is the difference between DOFF and TORC cleaning?
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DOFF Cleaning: Uses superheated steam to remove organic growth (algae, fungi, moss) and light carbon staining. It is chemical-free and dries within minutes. TORC Cleaning: Uses a gentle swirling vortex of low-pressure air, a small amount of water, and a fine granulate (calcium carbonate). It is specifically designed to remove heavy carbon crusts, soot, and certain types of paint that steam alone cannot shift.
Do I need scaffolding for facade cleaning?
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Not necessarily. While scaffolding is sometimes required for extensive restoration, we often use MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms) or Rope Access (Abseiling). These methods are often more cost-effective and cause significantly less disruption to the building’s occupants and local footpath access.
Can you clean graffiti from a building facade?
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Yes. We also offer a graffiti removal service that ensures complete removal regardless of where it’s located. With our range of specialist tools we can safely remove graffiti from any type of substrate without risk of damage.
