masonry restoration
& cleaning specialists

At Spotlight, we recognise the importance of maintaining and restoring the external facades of both new and historic buildings.

We provide the following services:

  • Cleaning

  • Doff – High Temperature Steam Cleaning, non-abrasive.

  • JOS / TORC – Low air pressure, water and an inert fine granulate.

  • Chemical application and stripping processes. Including graffiti removal.

  • Mechanical

With differing types of façade cleaning available, selecting the best method will depend on various elements. We apply great care in selecting the most suitable methods from the options available.

When required and/or requested we can carryout test samples for review. In some cases. These are often carried out in discrete locations before the main work commences. 

The equipment and technology behind our masonry and stone cleaning has developed significantly over the years. Spotlight only use market leading and cutting edge machinery.

All our machinery is regularly tested, maintained and serviced. Servicing is planned on or before the 6 months recommendations in accordance with manufactures requirements.

We will arrange all necessary site deliveries and collections of the equipment. We will also provide all necessary hoses and extension cables, as required.

our methods

Doff – Super Heated & Steam Cleaning Method

Doff cleaning is a hybrid from the pressure washer family.  The specialist Doff machine heats water to a temperature of 150°C.  The Doff machine than applies the super-heated water at pressure (upward 30bar) to the façade or elements being cleaned. 

This method works extremely well on organic matter and traffic film.  This method can also be affective on the removal of some paint types including graffiti.  Plus, can soften a level of friable carbon sulpha from the surface of both masonry and stonework.
This system is viewed as a cost effective and eco friendly method of cleaning

Most common use – Cleaning Masonry and Stone Facades, Patios, Car Parks, Concrete and Stone Structures.

JOS/TORC – Light abrasive cleaning method

JOS/TORC cleaning is viewed an abrasive cleaning method.  It uses low air pressure, water and fine granulate to remove stubborn dirt, grime, paint and carbon sulpha deposits. The systems available come with various size attachments and differing grades of granulate. The selection process is core to the successful cleaning outcome. Our skilled operatives will assess each building or structure.  Noting the types of brick and stone used.  The correct granulate will then be selected.

This system is often the preferred route for conservation officers, architects and clients who are looking for an enhanced level of cleaning, especially when removing stubborn paintwork.   

Poultice Cleaning –
Various types

Poultice cleaning is often used on detailed stonework and masonry that requires a sympathetic cleaning process.  Poultices can remove various types of contaminants, soiling that normal water-based cleaning methods cannot remove.  Both chemical or active poultices can be used in this process. With Alkaline poultices normally used for paint removal and the degrasing of masonry and stonework.

Poultices work well when contaminants and paints have penetrated deep into the masonry and stonework being cleaned.

Nebulous Spray

Often used alongside other cleaning methods.  The nebulous spray aims to soften the soiling on the façade or structure being worked on by applying a spray mist.  The “dwell time” durations will depend on the materials being cleaned. It is essential to review structure and stone types being cleaned before progressing with method for extended durations.  This is viewed as an eco-friendly cleaning process that uses a minimum amount of water due to the nature of the spray.

Chemical Cleaning –
Various types

This method comes in a variety of forms and formulations, with many suppliers offering light chemicals and aggressive cleaning chemicals.  Some chemicals on the market are Toxic and should only be handled by a fully trained professional with relevant personal protective equipment (PPE).  When this method is required a detailed method statement and environmental assessment will be carried out. 

In the interests of all staff, persons and nature we aim to only use non toxic chemicals.  We normally only recommend this system for localised cleaning but can carryout larger projects if required.