Manchester is a city built in red brick and Yorkshire stone — and both quietly collect a century of soot, carbon, pollution and biological growth. Our brick and stone cleaning service brings tired, blackened facades back to life using the right method for the substrate, from Victorian terraces to sandstone civic buildings.
What's actually involved
Every brick and stone job starts with a survey. We identify the substrate (soft red brick, engineered brick, sandstone, limestone, granite), the type of soiling (carbon, algae, paint over-spray, iron staining) and the condition of the pointing. From there we choose one of three methods — DOFF superheated steam or ThermaTech-style hot-steam treatment — and, where required, a targeted poultice for stubborn spots.
The right method for your building
Sand-blasting and pressure-washing brick or stone is a fast way to destroy them. We never do either. Instead, we use hot-steam methods designed for heritage and residential surfaces: DOFF superheated steam at 150°C for delicate stonework and paint removal, and hot-steam treatment for algae, lichen, carbon and general grime. The right method varies from one elevation to the next; on a mixed facade with brick, ashlar and cast stone, we'll often use two or three techniques in a single visit.
What to expect on the day
Stone and brick cleaning is careful, methodical work. Expect the technician to spend as much time on preparation and testing as on the cleaning itself: we always test a discreet area first, review it with you, and only commit to the whole elevation once we're confident the finish is right. Access equipment (towers, scaffolding, MEWPs) is arranged before the job where the height demands it. Small terraces can be completed in a day; larger detached properties, churches and civic buildings run into multiple days.
Aftercare and how long the results last
Cleaned brick and stone stays visibly clean for 5–10 years in most residential settings. If we've treated for biological growth, algae won't return for several years. Where pointing has weakened, we'll flag it during the quote — we don't do repointing ourselves, but we'll happily coordinate with a trusted stonemason so the whole facade is properly restored.
Common issues we solve
- Black carbon and pollution staining on Victorian brick and stone
- Paint over-spray, graffiti and old masonry paint removal
- Iron staining and rust runs from old fixings and railings
- Salt bloom (efflorescence) and lime-run staining
- Green and black algae on shaded elevations
DOFF steam trained, fully insured, and heritage-aware. If your building is listed or in a conservation area, mention it when booking — we'll adjust the method and paperwork accordingly.
