Concrete Cleaning Cladding Cleaning Plymouth

The iconic Theatre Royal, Plymouth, Devon, was in need of restoration. Softwashing UK took responsibility for cladding cleaning, and concrete cleaning, on a technically challenging project.

The Theatre Royal, Plymouth is a busy and popular venue. It supports large and small scale theatrical initiatives and  consists of a 1,300-seat main auditorium, call The Lyric, and also a 200-seat studio called The Drum. There is also a small studio space known as The Lab. Externally there are several substrates, including large glass areas. There are substantial areas of polished concrete, in the Brutalist style, and also plastic cladding. It had been many years since the Theatre’s exterior had been cleaned and treated in all areas, and organic growth and substantial pollution had built up. With its busy central location substantial traffic management was needed on this project. The unusual architectural design, with hard to reach upper elevations meant that access was tricky too. A specialist Moving Elevating Work Platform was required to reach all areas. The combination of managing access equipment and a large team in a busy area added a large degree of the complication to the project, and our expertise was required to managing this job safely and effectively.

Cladding cleaning was delivered on this project by using good quality biocides to clean and treat the substrate. We cleaned the cladding by creating work areas below on the street. Using bankmen on the MEWP to protect the public, and also Chapter 8 fencing to cordon off the area. The concrete was restored using biocides, but also the Historic England recommended Doff Steam System. This system uses low pressure and highly controlled heat to restore and clean many surfaces, especially stone and concrete.

No matter the complexities of the project Softwashing UK have the expertise to deliver.

To discuss building cleaning and Softwashing in Plymouth, Devon, and the South Hams contact Softwashing UK today.