020 80506043 info@dswcleaning.com

Frequently Asked Questions

 

At DSW Cleaning, we’re experts in DOFF cleaning London, facade cleaning, commercial building cleaning, and stone cleaning, with safe cherry picker hire for hard-to-reach areas. Keeping your building’s exterior clean protects its value, appearance, and structure.

 

Below, we’ve answered the most common questions about our specialist exterior cleaning services to help you choose the right solution.

 

Ready to restore your building’s exterior? Contact us today for a free survey and no-obligation quote.

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Will cleaning improve thermal performance or reduce damp?

It can. Removing algae, mould, and organic growth helps reduce moisture retention. Also, some treatments (e.g. hydrophobic coatings) can help repel water, reduce ingress, potentially reducing damp‐related issues.

Do you offer protective treatments after cleaning?

Yes we can offer protective treatments. These include anti-graffiti coatings e.g sacrificial or permanent layers that make graffiti easier to remove without damaging the stone. We also apply algae or moss inhibitors and biocidal treatments after cleaning to slow down regrowth.

Is the cleaning environmentally friendly?

Where possible we use eco-friendly cleaners when possible, minimize chemical runoff, use proper containment, ensure water recycling or controlled discharge, and comply with environmental regulations.

Do you do DOFF cleaning for both commercial and residential buildings?

Yes. While many DOFF cleaning contracts are for commercial or public buildings, we also offer DOFF cleaning for large residential blocks, homeowner associations, listed residences etc.

Is DOFF cleaning disruptive in terms of noise / smell / access?

It’s quieter than many high-pressure washers, but some noise is inevitable. Steam cleaning may produce slight smell if used in combination with steam cleaning chemicals. Access equipment may require safety barriers etc. We plan to minimise disruption and work with clients’ schedules.

How do you decide if DOFF cleaning is appropriate versus other methods?

We assess surface material, porosity, condition, extent and type of staining, environmental risk. If the material can be damaged by pressure or harsh chemicals, or is listed/historic, DOFF is often the best choice.

Will DOFF cleaning remove graffiti and pollution staining?

DOFF steam is very good at lifting off embedded grime, soot, moss, algae, mould, and many pollutant deposits. For graffiti, especially deep or chemical staining, additional treatments or chemical removers may be needed.

How much does DOFF cleaning cost in London?

How much does DOFF cleaning cost in London?
Cost depends on building size, height, access, surface type, amount/severity of staining, and location. A free survey is usually required to provide an accurate fixed quote.

How does DSW handle issues like graffiti or etched/acid graffiti on facades?

We assess the type of graffiti, how deeply it’s penetrated, the surface material. For shallow graffiti, standard removal methods work; for etched graffiti acid marks we may require more specialist restoration, often via chemical treatments or stone matching / repair.

How do I get a quote for facade / stone / DOFF cleaning?

Contact us (phone, email or via website). We arrange a site survey to assess the building, take measurements/photos, test materials (porosity if needed), then send a written, fixed-price quote.

What is included in the site survey?

Inspection of the building’s material, staining/soiling type & severity; testing (porosity, moisture etc) where necessary; assessment of access / equipment (height/cherry picker etc); assessment of safety & permissions; identification of preparatory work; recommendation of method; fixed quote.

What is your lead time / how soon can you start?

It depends on workload, the size / complexity of the job, weather and scheduling. For many jobs in London we can start within a few weeks; urgent jobs (graffiti, safety risk) often sooner.

Do you work at weekends / outside office hours?

Yes, where needed, especially for commercial clients to minimise disruption during business hours. We can arrange evening or weekend work.
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Do you deliver commercial & residential exterior or façade cleaning services?

Yes, we deliver commercial & residential building cleaning including cleaning facades, stonework, render, brick, cladding, windows, etc.—often using high-pressure or steam methods, always with trained technicians, and specialised equipment.

Why should I choose a specialist company for facade and exterior cleaning?

Because facades are subject to weather, pollution, mould, biological growth, and stains. Specialist companies know which cleaning method (e.g. DOFF steam, soft washing, pressure washing) suits your material, how to protect delicate stone, how to use safe chemicals, and how to work safely at height.

How often should exterior facades or stonework be clean?

That depends on environmental factors (pollution, moss/algae growth, proximity to traffic, weather). General guideline: every 3–5 years for many facades; more often (annually or bi-annually) if heavily exposed, if mould or staining is visible, or for prestige / client-facing buildings.

What safety and compliance measures does DSW follow?

We use trained, insured operatives; follow health & safety regulations; use safe working at height techniques; ensure chemical handling is safe; use appropriate access equipment; risk assessments are carried out on all jobs.

What is façade cleaning?

Facade cleaning is the process of cleaning the external face of buildings—walls, cladding, windows, decorative stone, etc.—to remove dirt, algae, grime, soot, mould, pollution and restore appearance.

What is stone cleaning, and how is it different?

Stone cleaning focuses specifically on natural or engineered stone surfaces—limestone, sandstone, marble, granite, etc. Stone is porous and sometimes delicate, so cleaning must avoid damage (erosion, loss of detail).

What techniques do you use for stone cleaning?

Techniques may include gentle pressure washing, DOFF steam cleaning (low pressure, high temperature steam), soft washing, chemical poultices or cleaners safe for stone, and sometimes micro-abrasion or restoration for severely damaged stone.

What is DOFF cleaning / DOFF steam cleaning?

DOFF is a brand / system employing low pressure steam and hot water, which provides effective cleaning without damaging delicate surfaces. It’s especially good for heritage stone, façades, brick, render etc. It reduces risk of damage vs high-pressure pressure washing.
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How does DSW handle issues like graffiti or etched/acid graffiti on facades?

We assess the type of graffiti, how deeply it’s penetrated, the surface material. For shallow graffiti, standard removal methods work; for etched graffiti acid marks we may require more specialist restoration, often via chemical treatments or stone matching / repair.

Is DOFF cleaning safe for historic or listed buildings?

Yes, when done properly. DOFF steam cleaning is often approved for sensitive surfaces because it’s low pressure, controlled temperature, and less likely to cause chipping or erosion. However, a survey and possibly permission may be required for listed status.

Can you clean all kinds of stone with DOFF cleaning?

Many kinds, yes—but suitability depends on stone type, condition, porosity, structural stability. A survey helps determine if DOFF is the right method or whether a softer technique is needed.

Do you need to prepare a facade or stone surface before cleaning?

Yes. Preparation may include removing loose debris, protecting windows and framing, covering plants, closing off areas for safety, possibly moisture or porosity testing, ensuring safe access. A site survey usually identifies preparatory work.

What happens during a site survey?

We inspect the condition of surfaces, note type of materials, level of soiling/staining, assess any damage or previous repairs, test porosity or moisture, consider height/access needs, propose method, and provide a fixed quote.

How do you prevent damage to windows, frames, metal fixtures, plants etc.?

We use protective coverings, masking, careful directional washing, rinse-off methods, avoid overspray, use gentle techniques where required.

Do you need scaffolding in addition to a cherry picker?

Sometimes yes, depending on the stretch of facade, height, access, complexity. For long horizontal runs, scaffolding may be more economical. We assess that in survey.

Does cleaning require shutting off utilities (water/electric)??

Normally no, though temporary shut-offs or safety isolations may be required for fixtures, lighting, sensors, or sensitive equipment near‐by. We plan these with you beforehand.

Can you match cleaning to heritage / conservation requirements?

Yes. For heritage or listed buildings we work to conservation requirements, often liaising with conservation officers, using approved methods, materials, and documenting work.

What factors influence pricing for facade / DOFF / stone cleaning?

– Size (height, width, number of storeys)
– Type of surface (stone, brick, render etc.)
– Degree of dirt/staining / work required
– Access (ease, height, obstructed areas)
– Required equipment (cherry picker vs scaffolding etc.)
– Protective or treatment coatings post-cleaning
– Location, permits or traffic management needed

What is a cherry picker, and why might I need one for facade or stone cleaning?

A cherry picker (boom lift) is a mobile platform that lifts workers & equipment to height safely. Used for facade cleaning, window cleaning, stonework, roofs, etc., especially where scaffolding is less practical.

Do you provide cherry picker hire for cleaning jobs?

Yes. We have our own in house cherry picker and offer cherry picker hire as part of our service when required for access, especially for high facades, tricky angles, or when speed & safety matter.

What size / reach of cherry picker do you have?

We have models suited to different heights and outreach needs. Exact specification will depend on the job. During survey we assess what reach is needed.

How does DSW handle issues like graffiti or etched/acid graffiti on facades?

We assess the type of graffiti, how deeply it’s penetrated, the surface material. For shallow graffiti, standard removal methods work; for etched graffiti acid marks we may require more specialist restoration, often via chemical treatments or stone matching / repair.

Is cherry picker hire safer than scaffolding?

It really does depend but for many jobs, yes: cherry pickers allow faster deployment, less ground disturbance, often lower cost for short-duration jobs. However, scaffolding may still be preferable for long jobs or continuous access over large lengths. Safety depends on proper deployment, trained operators, inspections et

What are the costs involved in hiring a cherry picker?

Costs depend on rental duration, height/reach, access difficulty, transport, operator, any permits or road closures required. We include all in the quote.

Do you need permits or permissions for using a cherry picker in London?

Possibly. If the cherry picker or lifting equipment will encroach on public footpaths, roads, require traffic management, or require road closure, permissions may be needed from local authorities. We assist or advise on this during the survey.

Can you supply a trained operator for the cherry picker?

Yes. Our teams include trained, certified operators. We don’t just hire equipment; we deliver full turnkey service with safe operation.

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Latest Insights on DOFF Cleaning, Facade Cleaning London & Commercial Building Cleaning in England

Stay up to date with expert tips, case studies, and guides on DOFF cleaning in London, stone and facade cleaning, commercial building cleaning, and safe cherry picker hire. Explore our blog to learn how to protect and enhance your property’s exterior.

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Looking for reliable facade cleaning in London, Surrey or Kent, commercial building cleaning anywhere in England, or DOFF steam cleaning in London, Oxfordshire or the Home Counties? Use the form to request a free quote or speak to our experts about your project,

info@dswcleaning.com

020 80506043

78 - 82 Lind Road, Sutton, London, SM1 4PL

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