Scope of works
J M Brown Ltd were appointed to carry out specialist façade cleaning works to a terracotta frontage in Reading, as part of the restoration of a previously derelict building being brought back into use for the residential market. The initial phase of the project involved carefully cleaning the façade to remove years of accumulated dirt and environmental pollution, allowing the true condition of the underlying substrate to be assessed ahead of any restoration works.
The team first carried out a full clean using the DOFF superheated water system, a method well suited to delicate historic materials such as terracotta. This process safely removed general surface soiling while preserving the integrity of the façade. In areas where heavier carbon and sulphate deposits had built up over time, TORC cleaning was used on isolated sections to provide a more targeted and controlled cleaning approach.
The combined cleaning methods allowed the façade to be restored to a far cleaner condition while enabling a thorough substrate survey to determine the necessary repair works required as part of the wider refurbishment. These initial conservation works play an important role in preparing the building for its transformation into high quality residential accommodation.
Before & After
TORC cleaning to isolated areas where heavy carbon/sulphate build up.
