Top Benefits Of Using DOFF Steam Cleaning For Heritage Buildings

Every heritage building in towns and cities across the country is more than just bricks and mortar –  they have architectural and historical significance directly linked to our past. Conserving these buildings means giving them specialised care and maintenance so they stand the test of time for many more years. But, cleaning heritage buildings can be a challenge because of their age, the materials used, and the strict guidelines in place to make sure their historical value remains intact. So, what are the top benefits of using DOFF cleaning for heritage buildings?

Why DOFF steam cleaning is ideal for heritage buildings

DOFF steam cleaning is an advanced cleaning method specifically designed to clean delicate surfaces like stone and brick with low-pressure, high-temperature steam. Because it’s beneficial for heritage buildings, effectively cleaning without damaging the material’s surface, it’s the preferred cleaning method for fragile or sensitive stonework, masonry, and restoration work. Together with plenty of building and site preparation, followed by a complete step-by-step process, here are some of the top benefits that DOFF steam cleaning offers for heritage buildings:

Gentle on fragile surfaces

Many heritage buildings have porous materials such as sandstone, limestone, brick, or terracotta. These can easily suffer permanent surface damage if harsh cleaning methods, including high-pressure water jets or chemical cleaners, are used. However, DOFF steam cleaning uses low-pressure steam of up to 150ºC to eat through dirt or grime so even the most fragile surfaces get clean without damage

Non-abrasive, non-toxic, and chemical-free

A major worry for heritage building owners is the use of harsh chemicals that might react with sensitive building materials and cause damage. DOFF steam cleaning is water-based, non-toxic, and doesn’t use chemicals. By only using environmentally friendly high-temperature steam, all dirt, grime, and pollution can be safely removed without compromising any part of the building or its surroundings.

Removes organic growth

Over the years, building surfaces will usually get a build-up of organic matter such as moss, lichen, algae, or bird mess. If left untreated, it can break down the material’s surface, causing damage. Traditional cleaning methods can weaken stonework, but high temperature of DOFF steam cleaning means organic growth can be completely removed without damaging the building’s materials, while killing any bacteria and spores to prevent regrowth.

Effective paint and graffiti removal

Like many new buildings, heritage buildings often have graffiti, paint, or posters on their exterior walls. Standard methods of paint removal, like chemical strippers or sandblasting, can harm fragile materials. But DOFF steam cleaning safely removes layers of paint and graffiti without causing surface damage. The high-temperature steam softens the paint or ink, so it gently lifts off, making it a better and safer option for porous materials.

The conservation benefits of DOFF steam cleaning for heritage buildings

Together with the cleaning benefits we’ve already looked at, DOFF steam cleaning also provides important conservation benefits for heritage buildings. The low-risk DOFF cleaning method helps support other conservation work by protecting any historical and architectural features. Here are the top reasons why professional steam cleaning is preferred by building conservationists:

Conservation project approved

With its high-temperature steaming process, DOFF steam cleaning has been tested and approved for use on heritage buildings and statues of all materials by conservation authorities. Meeting strict conservation guidelines, the DOFF system is the recommended cleaning method of architects, conservationists, and heritage organisations for all types of heritage structures, thanks to its ability to clean surfaces without causing damage.

Preventative conservation

One of the main conservation benefits of DOFF steam cleaning is that it helps prevent the long-term deterioration of heritage buildings. If left untreated, organic growth, pollution, and grime can all speed up building degradation. By removing these contaminants effectively, DOFF steam cleaning will slow or stop surface material decay so the building stays clean and structurally sound for longer. And using high-temperature steam, the DOFF system is quick-drying with no risk of surface saturation.

Supports sustainable conservation

Conservation for heritage buildings is more than facade cleaning to improve its appearance – it should be done sustainably so future generations can enjoy it for years to come. DOFF steam cleaning works alongside other sustainable conservation methods as an environmentally friendly cleaning method. Because it doesn’t use harsh chemicals, it’s safe and helps extend the life of the building, reducing the need for more high-profile restoration work in the future.

Preserves architectural integrity

Beyond age, materials and building techniques are what makes a building historically significant and any modern alterations can change or remove that history completely. By removing dirt, grime, and pollutants, DOFF steam cleaning helps safely preserve the building’s architectural features without changing or damaging surface materials. This process is essential to maintaining the original character of heritage buildings and extending their lifespan.

DOFF steam Cleaning from Prestige Professional

The DOFF steam cleaning process gives the highest standards of cleaning and maintaining heritage buildings. The combination of high-temperature steam and low-pressure delivery makes it the perfect – and preferred – method for removing dirt, organic growth, graffiti, contaminants, and paint from sensitive surfaces without causing damage.

For all heritage buildings, professional DOFF cleaning services are the most effective and safest way to preserve its history and architecture for generations to come. When your heritage building needs due care and attention as part of any ongoing conservation work, contact the Prestige Professional team today or call 01752 424873 or email info@prestigeprofessional.co.uk today.