Why Choose DOFF Cleaning?
When property managers, facilities teams and asset owners are looking for a high-performance but gentle façade cleaning method, DOFF steam cleaning is a go-to solution — especially for brickwork, stone, render, heritage façades, and architectural features.
Here’s what makes DOFF stand out:
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Superheated steam, gentle pressure — DOFF machines deliver water at up to ~150 °C at the nozzle end, but with low pressure and minimal water volume.
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No harsh chemicals needed — The heat kills spores and dislodges grime, biological growth and certain paints, with no need for aggressive chemical treatments.
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Safe for delicate masonry — Because of the controlled low pressure and limited water saturation, it minimises the risk of damage to mortar joints, porous stone, decorative masonry and render.
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Eco-friendly & water efficient — Using very low water volumes and no chemical runoff, DOFF is often acceptable for sensitive sites, conservation areas and near planted areas.
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Visible results, minimal downtime — Most façades are visibly transformed the same day, and surfaces dry quickly.
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Trusted by heritage & conservation bodies — DOFF is commonly used and often specified by architects, historic building officers and restoration contractors.
What Can DOFF Clean?
DOFF is versatile and can tackle a wide range of substrates and contaminants. Some common applications include:
Surface / Material | Typical Contaminants | DOFF Benefit |
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Brick & masonry façades | Atmospheric grime, soot, biological growth (algae, moss, lichens) | Restores original colour, kills spores, gentle on substrate |
Natural stone (e.g. sandstone, limestone, Cotswold stone) | Discolouration, dark streaks, carbon deposits | Effective cleaning with minimal erosion risk |
Render / painted surfaces | Mould, dirt, some types of paint | With careful settings, remove stains while preserving render |
Roofs, coping stones & chimneys | Moss, lichen, bird deposits | Clean elevated features without damaging roofing materials |
Graffiti / bitumen / wax / coatings | Certain paints, tar, chewing-gum residue | DOFF can soften and remove coatings under controlled conditions |
We always conduct a site survey to identify substrate, contaminants and sensitivities, then tailor temperature, pressure and technique accordingly.
Our DOFF Cleaning Process — What to Expect
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Site survey & materials assessment
We inspect the building materials, surface features, previous treatments, and condition. We also identify access constraints, conservation restrictions, and permitted water discharge zones. -
Surface testing & “patch trials”
Before full-scale cleaning, we perform small test patches under varying DOFF settings to identify optimal steam temperature, pressure, nozzle types, and cleaning sequence. This ensures safe, effective cleaning with no surprises. -
Protection & containment
We protect glazing, windows, metalwork, signage, planting and landscaping. Temporary covers, sheeting or containment may be used to capture overspray and prevent drift. -
DOFF cleaning application
Our certified operators apply the DOFF steam in a controlled, overlapping sweeping motion, starting from the bottom (or top, as appropriate) and working section by section. -
Rinsing / residue removal
If necessary, we gently flush surfaces with low-pressure clean water or use soft brushes to remove loosened debris, ensuring no residue remains. -
Quality inspection & report
We document before-and-after images, inspection checklists and compliance records. Any areas needing touch-ups are addressed immediately. -
Aftercare & recommendations
We offer guidance on maintenance intervals, gentle cleaning methods, and treatments (e.g. biocide protection) to slow regrowth between major cleanings.
Why Protech Property Solutions for DOFF?
As a well-established cleaning and maintenance company servicing Greater London and Home Counties, Protech brings:
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Decades of expertise — Over 35 years in property care and façade cleaning.
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Dedicated DOFF capability — We invest in specialist DOFF equipment and train operators to the highest standards.
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Client-centred service — We understand the pressures on property managers and deliver minimal disruption, thorough reporting and proactive communication.
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Cost-efficiency — Because our methods reduce the need for frequent recleaning, you get long-term value.
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Insurance, health & safety compliance — All works are carried out under comprehensive public liability, method statements (RAMS), and aligned with relevant conservation guidance.
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Local presence, wide reach — Based in Potters Bar, we can mobilise quickly across London, Hertfordshire, Essex, Buckinghamshire and surrounding counties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is DOFF safe for listed and historic buildings?
Yes — DOFF is widely accepted in conservation circles. Its controlled, low-pressure methodology preserves masonry and decorative features. We always run trials and follow conservation guidelines.
How long before grime returns?
Much depends on the location, pollution levels, exposure and biological growth. In many buildings, the interval before visible regrowth is 2 to 5 years. We can advise a maintenance schedule.
Can DOFF remove all paint / graffiti?
Some paint types and coatings respond well; others (especially thick, multiple-layer silicone paints) may require supplementary methods. Our test patches help determine the best approach.
Does DOFF saturate masonry with water?
No — it uses low water volume and the surface dries quickly, reducing risk of trapped moisture.
What about windows, glazing and metalwork?
We protect all non-target surfaces during cleaning. Slotted nozzles, shielding and directional control minimise splash.
How disruptive is the process?
Once mobilised, DOFF cleaning is fairly clean and non-invasive. Scaffolding or access may be needed for high levels, but the actual cleaning is discrete with low noise.
Request a DOFF Cleaning Survey & Quote
Let’s start with a no-obligation site visit so we can evaluate your building, test surfaces and propose the optimal cleaning specification. You’ll receive:
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A detailed specification (temperature/pressure settings)
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A competitive fixed-price quote
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A time-stamped cleaning schedule
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Photos, method statements, risk assessments
Contact us today:
☎ 01707 644 601
✉ info@protechpropertysolutions.co.uk
Protech Property Solutions Your trusted partner for façade restoration and DOFF cleaning across London & the Home Counties. |
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