Our cleaning methods are most effective at removing the following:
- Algae, moss, lichen, fungi and other organic growth
- General dirt and grime
- Paint coatings (most oil and plastic paints)
- Certain types of graffiti
- Bird and vermin fouling
- Wax coatings
- Bitumen, oil and grease
- Chewing gum
- Carbon
- Limescale
- Many more!
Our cleaning system is very versatile, allowing us to clean stone, brick, concrete, pavers, timber, terracotta, tiles (glazed and encaustic) and faience. It can also be used to sterilise kitchens, toilets, swimming pools, hospitals and factories.
Other surfaces, including painted surfaces, can also be cleaned with the system we use due to the adjustable temperature control. The cleaning possibilities and results vary depending on the surface and stain type. We are always happy to provide a free consultation and advice so don't hesitate to get in touch.
Our primary cleaning method is DOFF Steam cleaning. The specialised and portable machine takes a normal water supply (such as a garden tap) and heats it into supersteam that can be as hot as 150°C if required. This steam is then fed through the nozzle at 3-5 litres per minute at a low pressure, ensuring the surface does not suffer any damaging pressure.
The DOFF was specifically designed to replace the need for high pressure and chemicals, both of which can cause irreversible damage to a surface or façade. As a result, DOFF has become the industry standard in stone and surface cleaning, being approved for use by organisations such as National Trust and Historic England. It is also the only approved cleaning method by England Heritage having being used on some of the UK's most important buildings.
Effective
The DOFF system is the most effective method for removing a wide range of growth, stains and coatings. Unlike pressure washing, the DOFF system not only removes organic growth but also kills off the deep rooted pores, preventing any regrowth for up to 6 months. When non-organic material is being removed, the DOFF's supersteam gently lifts away all of the coating (such as paint, grease, wax or dirt) from the substrate rather than attempting to blast it off with pure force.
Gentle on the substrate
The DOFF operates at a low PSI (pressure) ensuring there is no damage to the substrate. Many materials including sandstone, bricks and tiles can be easily chipped and gouged by high pressure jets of water. In addition to this, the steam method ensures the substrate does not suffer deep saturation and is dry within minutes.
Environmentally Friendly
The low pressure of the DOFF allows it to use up to 10 times less water than a pressure washer, some of which can go through 30L per minute. The unique steam system also allows many surfaces to be cleaned without the use of any chemicals*, making DOFF a purely water based system. Due to the resilience of some stains, pressure washing is often used alongside chemical washes such as Sodium Hypochlorite, also known as bleach.
*The majority of our cleans use no chemicals at all, this is due to the effectiveness of the system we use. If any chemicals are needed we always do so in consultation with the client. Ensuring the surrounding surfaces and environment are not affected is our priority.
At Cleanstone, we specialise in stone and surface cleaning in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Get in touch to see how we can help you.