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Exterior Cleaning

Revitalise your building’s exterior with expert exterior cleaning services for any building, at any height. Our experienced operatives use cutting-edge technology and creative access strategies to deliver thorough, cost-effective building cleaning in London and across the UK.

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Properties Cleaned Using Specialist Cleaning Methods

Our External Cleaning Services

Brick Cleaning

Discover our top-rated brick cleaning service and let our expert team restore the curb appeal of your property.

Cladding Cleaning

Elevate your property with our expert cladding cleaning and repair service. Cost-effective solutions that restore your facade to its original condition.

DOFF Cleaning

Discover our DOFF cleaning service: the safe and cost-effective solution for removing stains, paint, and organic matter from buildings without damage.

Drain Cleaning & Maintenance

Unblock drains, diagnose underlying drainage issues, and protect your property for the long term with our expert drain cleaning and maintenance service.

Facade Cleaning & Restoration

Bring your property back to life with our precision facade restoration service, using advanced, eco-friendly techniques for stunning and durable results.

Graffiti Removal

Revitalise your property with our eco-friendly graffiti removal service. Get tailored solutions for pristine results in London and across the UK.

Gutter Cleaning

Our gutter cleaning and repair team operates in and around London, offering a 24/7 professional service. Get in touch today.

Render Cleaning

Elevate your property's appeal with our expert render cleaning services, using no scaffolding up to 8 floors. Save money and get outstanding results.

Roof Cleaning

Expert roof cleaning services across the UK using eco-friendly techniques and creative access methods that will save you thousands.

Softwashing

Transform your property with our softwashing service. Our expert team will deliver outstanding results without scaffolding, saving you time and money.

Stone Cleaning

Elevate your property with our professional exterior stone cleaning service. Our experienced technicians will conserve your stone facade for years to come.

TORC Cleaning

Gently restore your stone or brick facade with precision using our TORC cleaning service. Scaffold-free, fast and cost-effective.

Window Cleaning

Rediscover crystal-clear views with our high-rise window cleaning service in London and the UK, using cost-effective, adaptable solutions like rope access.

Our Building Cleaning Services

We are specialists in comprehensive exterior cleaning for all types of buildings. Our expert team employs the latest technology and innovative access methods to ensure thorough and efficient cleaning of your property’s exterior. From intricate brickwork and sensitive stone facades to modern cladding and roofing, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of your structure, preserving its integrity and enhancing its appearance for years to come.

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Why Choose Us for External Cleaning?

We are continually working to improve our expertise and make innovative new solutions in building maintenance available to our clients. Our highly-trained team is equipped with the latest cleaning technologies, offering a deeper, more eco-friendly clean without damaging your building’s surfaces. From delicate historic facades to modern cladding, our cleaning methods preserve the integrity of your property while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

We leverage creative access methods, such as rope access, MEWPs and our own patented equipment, to swiftly and safely reach all areas of your building. Our creative approaches not only speed up the completion of projects but also cut down on the costs and inconveniences associated with scaffolding. As we offer a full spectrum of building maintenance services, we’re also able to conduct repairs and restorations concurrently with cleaning, providing a seamless, efficient service.

Our professionalism and commitment to quality are reflected in our ISO 9001 certification, ensuring that your needs are listened to and met with precision. Trust us to deliver the highest quality exterior cleaning service in London and nationwide.

Tailored cleaning solutions for any building, at any height.

Comprehensive Window and Gutter Cleaning Services at Kingston School

Spectrum's innovative use of 3D-printed poles and specialised gutter vacuum systems enabled them to perform comprehensive window and gutter cleaning at Kingston School without the need for scaffolding. Within a week, Spectrum tackled complex access issues across various school buildings, ranging from historic to newly constructed blocks, ensuring a seamless operation. Our technology not only minimised the physical impact on the school site but also saved considerable time and cost, while enhancing the school's maintenance ahead of the new academic year. This project underscores our commitment to delivering efficient and tailored cleaning solutions.

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Managing “Impossible” Access Issues to Deliver Professional Results

Spectrum tackled a high-complexity cleaning project on a newly constructed ten-storey residential block in Islington, efficiently overcoming significant access difficulties due to the building's modern architecture. They provided thorough cladding and window cleaning services using state-of-the-art machinery and patented pole systems, achieving an immaculate finish. The completion of this project not only met the precise needs of the project developers, St George PLC, but also prepared the building for immediate occupancy, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and long-term maintenance standards.

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Residents Thrilled With Facade Services in Hyde Park

Spectrum’s patented pole cleaning technology was central to the façade maintenance of a Grade II listed property overlooking Hyde Park, completed in just four days. This routine clean involved careful treatment of the building’s painted masonry to avoid damage to its historic features, utilising DOFF cleaning equipment without the need for bulky machinery. The innovative approach not only preserved the architectural integrity but also offered a cost-effective solution by minimising disruptions in the busy London area. Regular bi-monthly and bi-annual cleaning schedules have been established to maintain the building’s pristine condition and manage the effects of traffic pollution efficiently.

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Complex Render Cleaning Via Rope Access

Optivo, a major UK housing association, engaged Spectrum's render cleaning division to refurbish four 20-storey blocks in Hastings, plagued by a decade of algae and dirt accumulation. The project employed DOFF steam cleaning technology and innovative rope access methods to minimise disruption for the resident-heavy buildings. Spectrum's careful planning and versatile equipment setups, including on-site water systems for the DOFF machines, allowed the cleaning to be completed ahead of the 12-week deadline, without the need for scaffolding, ensuring efficiency, safety, and resident satisfaction throughout the restoration.

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Revitalising Soho's Facade: Innovative Cladding Restoration without Scaffolding

In the bustling streets of Soho, London, Spectrum carried out a transformative cladding restoration project over two weeks, avoiding scaffolding by utilising IRATA-trained abseilers. This not only reduced cost and disruption but also expedited the completion timeline. The project employed specialist cleaning products and buffing machines to revive the metal cladding, enhancing the building’s appearance and value. Despite initial delays from choosing another contractor, the client was thoroughly satisfied with the outcome, reinforcing the value of specialist interventions in facade maintenance.

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Revitalising Redhill: Innovative Restoration of a Leisure Centre

In Redhill, Surrey, a significant restoration project was carried out on a Leisure Centre, addressing critical structural and aesthetic issues notably caused by age and environmental wear. Utilising advanced aerial drone surveys, the team identified critical damages including stone and mortar erosion, and faulty roof components. Spectrum then executed a phased restoration, utilising patented technologies with DOFF and TORC cleaning systems to efficiently remove carbon pollution without the messy byproducts typically associated with such processes. This innovative approach minimised environmental impact and received outstanding feedback from local residents and stakeholders.

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Dramatic Render Cleaning Before And After In West Sussex

This residential property in West Sussex had not had its facade cleaned since it was built and was suffering from extreme algae staining. Though the render was originally white, the entire property was covered in severe black staining. These dormant algae spores had left the building looking very dark and dirty.

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Abseiling Solutions for Luxury Residential Facades

Over a decade, Spectrum has provided bi-annual rope-access cleaning for a complex luxury residential property in Camden, known for its challenging glass facades. The property features angled overhanging sections that require skilled IRATA-trained abseilers. The technicians used specialised equipment and attachments like DOFF and push lock eyebolts, maneuvering with precision to maintain cleanliness and safety. The use of water-fed poles and meticulous planning allowed for efficient facade cleaning, overcoming obstacles that previously thwarted other contractors.

This ongoing relationship has ensured innovative solutions to facade cleaning that preserve both the building's aesthetic and structural integrity, proving Spectrum’s capability in handling complex architectural designs with enhanced safety protocols.

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Beautiful Render Cleaning Before and Afters in Canterbury

A week-long building maintenance project by Spectrum for AD Construction Group in Wingham, Canterbury, successfully rejuvenated a newly built estate through expert render cleaning and comprehensive outdoor maintenance. Utilising innovative techniques like DOFF steam cleaning and employing patented pole equipment, the Spectrum team efficiently cleared severe algae staining, repaired damaged gutter brackets, and performed pristine window cleaning without necessitating scaffolding. The effective strategy paired with flexible timing not only preserved the architectural aesthetics but also saved costs on extensive repainting as initially feared by the client.

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Building Maintenance Services with a Smile Keep High-End Property Residents Happy

In the heart of Central London, close to Tower Bridge, the Spectrum team tackled a complex building maintenance challenge spanning six months. This high-end residential project involved facade cleaning, timber repair, painting, and various other maintenance activities across multiple properties using a mix of brick, wood, metal, and stone. Employing innovative access solutions like rope and DOFF-cleaning poles, and ensuring minimal disruption in a quiet, gated community, the team successfully revitalised the living spaces without compromising the residents' peaceful environment.

With careful planning and coordination with on-site management and tenants, Spectrum ensured all services from start to near finish adhered to the high standards expected in such premium settings, enhancing overall resident satisfaction and property aesthetics.

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How Our Services Saved Our Client £50k

Spectrum significantly enhanced a residential estate in Croydon by employing a mix of access methods, including their patented pole system, rope access, and MEWPs, avoiding the traditional and costly scaffolding. Over eight weeks, Spectrum tackled render cleaning, brick cleaning, and bird-proofing while navigating complex logistical issues including limited rear access and local environmental constraints. By choosing alternative access strategies and focusing on effective cleaning techniques, Spectrum not only saved their client £50k but also significantly reduced project timelines and disruption to the estate’s residents.

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London's Best Graffiti Removers Show Off Their Skills!

Spectrum was tasked with removing graffiti from a brick facade in East London within a very tight 24-hour timeframe, utilising the DOFF cleaning system and specialised chemical treatments. This project, integral to protecting the masonry from further damage, showcased our innovative approach by avoiding the use of heavy machinery like cherry pickers and instead using ground-based equipment. The end result was efficient and cost-effective, successfully restoring the brickwork to its original condition without compromising the structural integrity of the aging brick.

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Our Accreditations & Training

What Surfaces Can We Clean?

Whether your property features brick, stone, render, cladding or metal surfaces, our skilled team is equipped with the right techniques and technologies to tackle each unique material. We ensure thorough cleaning that not only enhances the aesthetic of your building but also preserves its structural integrity. Trust us to deliver exceptional care for every surface, maintaining the pristine appearance and durability of your property’s exterior.

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Innovative access,
saving clients thousands

How we access your exterior

At Spectrum, we specialise in creative access approaches to streamline our building cleaning operations. Our IRATA-trained technicians will use a combination of methods, from rope access to Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), to efficiently reach all areas of your building. Our approach not only allows for quick and safe access but also significantly reduces the need for costly scaffolding, saving you time, money and hassle.

Compare Access Costs

Rope Access

Pole Access

Ground Access

Ladders

MEWP

Scaffolding

  • Disruption

  • Efficiency

  • Cost

  • Adaptability

Signs That You Need External Cleaning

A building might require exterior cleaning services if it exhibits any signs of neglect, environmental damage or simply the effects of ageing. Monitoring for these signs and addressing them with professional exterior cleaning can help maintain a building's aesthetic appeal, structural integrity and value.

Regular cleaning is an essential part of building maintenance that extends the life of the building’s materials and surfaces, as well as preventing more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

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We maintain a range of buildings in all sectors across the UK.

From houses to flats, schools to skyscrapers, commercial to heritage.

Our Projects

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Westminster

Night-Time Façade Cleaning and Tap Testing: Oxford Street

View Case Study

Stone Cleaning on a Landmark University Building

View Case Study
Kingston

Comprehensive Window and Gutter Cleaning Services at Kingston School

View Case Study
Islington

Managing “Impossible” Access Issues to Deliver Professional Results

View Case Study
Hyde Park

Residents Thrilled With Facade Services in Hyde Park

View Case Study
Hastings, UK

Complex Render Cleaning Via Rope Access

View Case Study
Soho, London

Revitalising Soho's Facade: Innovative Cladding Restoration without Scaffolding

View Case Study
Redhill, Surrey

Revitalising Redhill: Innovative Restoration of a Leisure Centre

View Case Study

Hackney Hybrid Access: Seamless Façade Repairs and Cleaning Without Scaffolding

View Case Study

Stone Surface Restoration: Tackling Deep-Set Graffiti in a High-Footfall London Location

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Beyond Window Cleaning: Full Facade Restoration for a South London Residence

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Precision Window Cleaning: Innovative Access Solutions for a Modern Development

View Case Study

Solving Access Challenges In Wimbledon Without Scaffolding

View Case Study

Dramatic Render Cleaning Before And After In West Sussex

View Case Study
Camden

Abseiling Solutions for Luxury Residential Facades

View Case Study
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Please use an alternative contact method. You can email us at info@spectrumss.co.uk, or call us on 020 3551 6206.

What to expect

  • 1

    Contact Us

    Contact us and explain your building maintenance needs.

  • 2

    Initial Consultation

    We start with a consultation to understand your needs and the specifics of the project.

  • 3

    Site Survey

    Our team will visit the site to assess the condition of the building and the scope of work required - this may be done in person or remotely. Depending on the level of works required, we may work alongside an experienced surveyor to ensure an accurate scope of works.

  • 4

    Scope of Works

    Based on our initial findings, we’ll develop a tailored plan for your property. This includes selecting the appropriate techniques and equipment, as well as considering factors such as building height, access challenges and specific restoration needs.

  • 5

    Work Starts

    With the right plan in place, our skilled technicians will carry out the work to the highest standards using the most effective combination of access solutions. We’ll ensure minimal disruption and high safety standards during execution.

  • 6

    Quality Control

    Throughout the project, we will maintain continuous quality control checks. If issues are identified, adjustments are made to ensure the highest standards of workmanship.

  • 7

    Detailed Report

    Once the work is successfully completed to your satisfaction, we will submit a completion report with photos and videos of the stages and finished result.

  • 8

    Ongoing Support

    Where needed, we offer ongoing support and regular maintenance services to protect and extend the lifespan of your building's exterior.

Educating Leaders in Building Maintenance with Our CPD Programmes:

With a passion for sharing our latest insights, we have trained over 500 surveyors and property managers on sustainable facade restoration and advanced maintenance strategies.

We help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving sector by providing engaging, practical learning that can be easily applied to a broad range of projects. Join us to not only meet your annual continuing development requirements but also discover innovative methods that can deliver outstanding results for your organisation or clients.

Learn more about our CPD programmes
  • Atkins Realis
  • NBP Paribas
  • CBRE
  • Firstport
  • Haus Block Management
  • Hollis Global
  • Knight Frank
  • Savills

We’ve trained over 500 surveyors and property managers through our CPD courses.

Learn from our Specialist Team
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Frequently asked questions

What is exterior cleaning?

Exterior cleaning refers to the process of removing dirt, grime, pollutants and other unwanted substances from the outer surfaces of a building. This service is crucial for maintaining both the aesthetic appeal and the structural integrity of the property. It involves a variety of techniques and cleaning solutions tailored to safely and effectively clean different materials such as brick, stone, render, cladding, metal or even roofing.

The goal of exterior cleaning is not only to enhance the building's appearance but also to protect it from damage caused by build-ups of harmful substances that can lead to decay and degradation over time. Proper exterior cleaning can extend the life of building materials, preserve your property value and prevent costly repairs in the future.

How do you clean the outside of a building?

Traditional exterior building cleaning methods, such as pressure washing and softwashing, have commonly been used due to their effectiveness in removing dirt, grime and biological matter.

Pressure washing employs high-pressure water to blast away surface dirt, which is effective for robust materials but can be too harsh for more delicate surfaces. Softwashing, in contrast, uses lower water pressures and incorporates chemicals to gently clean surfaces, making it suitable for a broader range of materials, including softer stones and render.

However, these methods have limitations, particularly when it comes to very delicate or intricately detailed surfaces, and they may not always be the most environmentally friendly or cost-effective approaches.

Recognising these limitations, we’ve invested over £250,000 in research and development to perfect a non-abrasive, four-stage cleaning process known as the P.A.S.T. method, especially effective for modern render and applicable to a variety of other materials. This approach ensures superior quality and lasting results for building facades across the UK.

P.A.S.T. stands for:

  1. Planning and preparation: Every project begins with thorough planning and meticulous preparation to ensure the safest and most effective cleaning strategy tailored to each building's specific needs.
  2. Application of biocide: A biocide is applied to kill algae, fungi and other microbial growth, preventing their return and maintaining the cleanliness and health of the facade.
  3. Steam cleaning: This is the core of the cleaning process. Low-pressure, high-temperature steam effectively breaks down dirt, grime and biological contaminants without the need for high pressure or harsh chemicals, which is particularly crucial for delicate surfaces.
  4. Targeted treatments and retreatments: The final step involves specific treatments tailored to address persistent problem areas, with retreatments as necessary to ensure comprehensive cleaning and protection.

The P.A.S.T. method demonstrates Spectrum's commitment to innovative, effective and gentle cleaning techniques that preserve the integrity and appearance of buildings, making it a superior choice for maintaining modern and historic structures alike.

We also use innovative access methods, such as rope access and Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), to reach all areas safely and efficiently. Our creative, comprehensive approach ensures a deep clean that maintains and protects the building’s exterior, extending its lifespan and improving its overall appearance.

What types of buildings do you clean?

At Spectrum, we are equipped to clean a wide variety of building types, ensuring each property receives the highest level of care regardless of its function or architectural style. Our team has extensive experience in cleaning residential, commercial and public buildings. Whether you are looking to maintain a housing block, a high-rise commercial building or a large public property, we have the expertise and equipment to handle the job.

We also take pride in our ability to work with both historic and modern buildings. Our gentle yet effective cleaning methods - including DOFF and TORC systems - are tailored to protect and preserve the unique characteristics of historic structures while also delivering the efficiency needed for contemporary buildings.

With expert knowledge and advanced cleaning equipment, every building receives a tailored approach that respects its heritage and the requirements specified by our clients.

How often should the exterior of a building be cleaned?

The frequency at which the exterior of a building should be cleaned can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the building's location, environmental conditions, the type of materials used in the facade, and the level of pollution in the area. Here are some general guidelines:

Urban or industrial areas

Buildings in urban or industrial settings are typically exposed to higher levels of pollutants, dust, and grime. Such buildings might require cleaning once every year or two to prevent the accumulation of substances that could damage the facade and to maintain the building's aesthetic appeal.

Coastal areas

Properties located near the coast are exposed to salt spray, which can accelerate the deterioration of building materials. These buildings should be cleaned at least every one to two years.

Rural areas

Buildings in rural areas might not require as frequent cleaning as those in urban or coastal areas due to lower exposure to pollutants. Cleaning every three to five years might be sufficient unless the building is directly exposed to elements like road salt or agricultural chemicals.

High traffic areas

Buildings near high-traffic roads or highways may accumulate dirt and pollutants more quickly and may need to be cleaned more frequently, potentially annually.

Material specific needs

Different materials may also dictate the frequency of cleaning. For example, glass and high-gloss surfaces show dirt more readily and may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance, whereas brick and stone might need less frequent but more thorough cleaning to remove ingrained pollutants and biological growth.


Regular inspections can help determine the actual need for cleaning by assessing the build-up of dirt and the condition of the building's exterior. This proactive approach ensures that cleaning is done as needed to preserve both the building's appearance and structural health.

Can you remove graffiti and other tough stains?

Yes - we are fully equipped to remove graffiti and other tough stains from various surfaces. Our team uses advanced techniques and specialised cleaning solutions to effectively and safely eliminate graffiti, ensuring that it does not damage the underlying material.

We can also address other stubborn stains, like carbon staining, limescale or efflorescence, restoring the appearance of your building without compromising its structural health. Our approach is tailored to the unique requirements of the underlying substrate, providing targeted treatments that achieve clean, long-lasting results.

What Our Google Reviews Say

Amazing company! I’d highly recommend! I’ve asked for render and windows cleaning and they did a stunning job. The teams are highly skilled professionals, reliable and very friendly. As well as communication are exceptional! Very trust worthy!

Dzessika Riekstina

I have been using Spectrum for the past 4 years and they are absolutely amazing, they are fast and reliable. Their professional expertise on matters is phenomenal and they are always wiling to help you.

Kiara Harmse

Spectrum have cleaned our windows for a few years now and are very reliable and professional.

Carl Eastop

I have worked with spectrum for a few years and their services are topnotch. I highly recommend.

SOLOMON OGUNTOYINBO

Great guys, and the job is well done. Communication is fantastic throughout.

Ryan Wibisono

I've worked with Spectrum on several external façade and roof leak tracing investigations within a Wandsworth Town Development and have consistently been impressed by their professionalism and reliability. Every team and operative attending site has conducted pre-start and completion briefings with myself, ensuring I’m fully informed about the work carried out even before receiving the formal report, this is hugely appreciated. Jakub Szynwelski and Emilia Palmieri are my main points of contact and are outstanding in their roles! Always quick to respond, incredibly helpful with any queries, and consistently willing to offer guidance and support when needed.

Junior Dos santos

​We recently used Spectrums services for our building, and couldn’t be happier with the quality of the service. The team were fast to respond from the initial enquiry through to booking the work in. They initially had to move our appointment to a different date, but the communication was fast and responsive, and worked around any issues quickly and efficiently. The guys that did the work were amazing, they worked around everything we threw at them, and they were really patient with us, and went beyond what they were meant to do from the original quote, so thank you guys. We really felt like we were in safe hands, and I just wished all other contractors were like this, you can tell they really care! Thank you Spectrum team, you guys are the best.

Farid Gasanov

Been working with Spectrum for a while, We have our ups and downs but I'm happy :)

Latoya Latanea Okkers

Great company, we had a leak on one facade a facade of an 18m + building in Hackney and from the point of contact with Spectrum it was a positive experience. The team came this week and couldn’t have been more helpful and did everything within their power to help identify and hopefully resolve the issue they had everything on the van to resolve the problem we identified. The cost savings were substantial and I would certainly use them again if I had a similar issue. Thanks to all involved. Steve (The Fisheries)

Steve Watkins

Very happy with the work carried out cleaning the solar panels on the roof of two houses.

Lennie D'Cruz