E: info@cleancladding.com
T: 0115 990 2809

Maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of commercial properties often starts with caring for their outer fabric. One of the most visible—and vulnerable—elements is external cladding. Whether you manage a
retail unit, office block, or industrial site, knowing how to clean cladding efficiently and sustainably can make all the difference to your property’s image and lifespan.

This guide will demystify cladding cleaning for commercial buildings, highlighting effective, eco-conscious techniques, safe practices for different materials, recommended schedules, and the importance of professional
service standards.

 

Understanding External Cladding and Its Cleaning Needs
Cladding acts as a barrier between your building and the environment, offering both protection and visual appeal. Over time, pollutants, algae, and weathering can dull its appearance—or even undermine its integrity if not
properly cared for.
Different types of cladding, such as metal, vinyl, composite, or wood, require specific cleaning methods. The best approach considers both the material and environmental impact, ensuring a lasting clean without causing
damage.

What Is the Best Thing to Clean Cladding?
The most effective cladding cleaning solution is one that’s tailored to your property’s specific needs and material types. For most commercial sites, purified water systems—like the reach and wash technique—stand out as
best-in-class. These systems eliminate the need for harsh chemicals by using high-grade filtration to remove impurities, leaving surfaces spotless and streak-free.

Key benefits include:

No harmful residues left behind
Minimal water usage compared to pressure washing
Preserves the protective coatings and colour of cladding
At Cleancladding, we use purified water and soft-bristled, extendable brushes, ensuring a thorough yet gentle clean. For sensitive areas or specialist cladding types, manual cleaning with microfibre cloths is sometimes
necessary to avoid scratching or discolouration.

How Do You Clean External Cladding?
Cleaning external cladding isn’t a one-size-fits-all task. Here’s an outline of proven, professional approaches:

1. Reach and Wash
Uses extendable poles (up to 70ft) with purified water
Allows cleaning high areas from the safety of the ground
Ideal for large façades and hard-to-access sections

2. Manual Methods
Microfibre cloths and soft brushes for stubborn spots or delicate finishes
Especially useful for wood and composite cladding, where abrasion or water ingress is a risk

3. Steam and Specialist Techniques
Steam cleaning is used for stubborn organic contaminants, requiring only water and no chemicals
Specialist machinery or hand detailing may be necessary for textured or ornamental cladding
Every material has unique requirements. For example, metal panels need non-abrasive cleaning to avoid corrosion, while vinyl benefits from a gentle wash to prevent fading.

 

Can You Jet Wash Cladding?
While jet washing is effective for some exterior surfaces, caution is advised with cladding. High-pressure water can:

 

• Strip away protective coatings

• Force water behind panels, risking damp and mould

• Damage seals and edges, especially on older installations

Jet washing should only be performed by trained professionals who understand how to adjust pressure and select the right nozzle for each material, or—preferably—avoided in favour of less aggressive methods like reach
and wash. At Cleancladding, our commitment to eco friendly cladding maintenance means we steer clear of harsh jets, prioritising preservation and sustainability.

 

How Often Should Cladding Be Cleaned?

Cleaning frequency depends on several factors:

Local environment (urban, industrial, coastal)
Cladding material and finish
Building usage and exposure

For most commercial and industrial properties, annual cleaning is recommended. However, buildings exposed to high pollution, heavy traffic, or adverse weather may benefit from biannual cleans.

 

Regular upkeep prevents:

Staining and discolouration
Build-up of organic growth (moss, lichen, algae)
Long-term structural issues

Opting for a maintenance contract with specialists like Cleancladding ensures routine checks and cleaning that protect your assets year-round.

​

​

Credentials and Safety: Why Professionalism Matters
Cladding cleaning often requires working at height and handling delicate surfaces. When choosing a provider, look for:

RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements)
CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) accreditation
Full insurance for all work undertaken

Our team at Clean Cladding Ltd is fully trained, insured, and qualified, using best-in-class equipment and safety protocols on every job.

​

Maintenance Contracts: Tailored for Business Needs

Prevention is always better than cure. A tailored maintenance contract not only keeps your façade looking its best but can help avoid costly repairs or replacements.

 

Such contracts typically include:

 

• Scheduled cleans tailored to your property’s exposure and cladding type

• Proactive inspections for early issue detection

• Comprehensive reporting and documentation

We work with you to create custom plans—whether for cladding cleaning, commercial window cleaning, or all-in-one exterior maintenance. Our eco-friendly and chemical-free ethos means cleaning is safe for your staff,
customers, and the environment.

 

Eco-Friendly Cladding Cleaning: Doing Good by Doing Well

A sustainable approach doesn’t just protect the environment; it extends the life of your cladding. Our methods use purified water, avoid chemicals, and minimise disruption to your business operations.

Choosing a professional cladding cleaning partner helps maintain your property’s value, attract clients or tenants, and signal a commitment to environmental best practice.

​

To sum up, effective and safe cladding cleaning hinges on understanding your material, adopting the right techniques, and committing to regular upkeep.

 

By partnering with certified professionals offering tailored, eco-
friendly solutions, you can keep your commercial property looking sharp and operating efficiently—without compromise. 

 

To explore how Cleancladding can make a difference for your business, contact us for a bespoke

consultation today.