Even the oldest and most fragile brickwork can be cleaned up and restored with softwashing. The effects last longer than conventional pressure washing too.
Never use a high pressure washing technique on old bricks, as this can lead to substantial damage and expensive repair works, such as replacing the mortar, that are best avoided. As a rule, never use high pressure washing on any masonry.
Different substances can accumulate on ageing brickwork over time, depending on its location. Moss is far more common outside for example, but there are numerous moulds and infectants which will require specialist treatments to kill off effectively. It is vital to avoid replacing mortar unless absolutely necessary, as the lime levels in newer cements are far higher, and this can erode older brickworks. A specialist softwash treatment removes the need for this intervention.
When attempting a DIY job we often find that people can make the same common mistakes and have used aggressive wire brushes to try and remove the surface infectants. We’ve also seen people apply waterproofing and repellents to ageing brickwork, sealing in the damp and infection in the process, when it is nearly always better to let bricks breathe.
External bricks are of course exposed to far more damp and humidity than internal brickworks. We recommend an annual sprucing and cleanse to keep external brickworks looking great and in prime condition, diminishing the risks of collapse or other structural issues.
Depending on the exact infections in play, we will blend the appropriate softwash solution for treatment. In the unlikely event of never having encountered rare brickwork, we will sample test an inconspicuous area first. We will then use non-metallic brushes and implements, with a pure water rinse, to remove the most obvious dirt, dust, and grime. We will then lightly spray the brickwork with our blended softwash detergents to attack the root and generative systems of the moss and moulds. Results are immediate, but we’ll pop back after a week just to double check, and perform another rinse just in case. External wall and brickwork cleaning can be performed all year round, although moss is best treated before it hunkers down for the cold winter.
Internal brickwork cleaning, such as brickwork floors or fire places, has its own particular challenges. Floors, for example, are best treated using softwash alkali blends in warm water. When sealing and finishing a brickwork floor a specific brick acid (muriatic acid) is often used to bring out the finish. While this makes the floor look great, at first, it means a lot of dust can accumulate time and time again. An alkali softwash can counteract the effects of this, and will of course remove any infectants that have built up due to damp.
Moulds are of course much less common in brickwork fireplaces, but removing soot is a job in itself. You can have a good stab at removing soot DIY style with oven cleaner, but for the best results, less blackened faces and sore elbows, it is best to rely on the experts. We understand the chemistry of soot, depending on the intensity of the residues, we’ll select the most effective softwash formulas to remove them and restore brickwork fireplaces. Soot can require aggressive chemicals like ammonia or Trisodium phosphate to remove it thoroughly, and we will blend them carefully and softly to remove soot with the least possible fuss and the most impressive results.
Do not risk ageing brickwork deteriorating further by just leaving dirt to accumulate, or getting a high pressure wash that can damage it. A softwash is the perfect solution.
Contact Softwashing UK today to discuss brick cleaning.
Brick façades offer timeless appeal and structural durability, making them a mainstay in commercial and heritage architecture. However, over the years, bricks and mortar can deteriorate due to weathering, pollution, staining, and biological growth. Cracks, spalling, and discolouration can all take a toll on your building’s appearance and integrity. That’s where Softwashing UK comes in.
We offer expert brick restoration services that go beyond cleaning — combining soft wash technology with skilled repair methods to revive, preserve, and protect your brickwork.
1. Specialist Soft Wash for Safe Surface Preparation
Before any restoration begins, our low-pressure soft wash system removes surface contaminants like moss, algae, efflorescence, and pollution without damaging delicate brickwork. This provides a clean, stable surface for accurate repair and treatment.
2. Mortar Repointing & Brick Repair
Damaged mortar joints are not only unsightly but structurally vulnerable. We provide careful repointing using appropriate lime or cement-based mortars, matching the original colour and texture. We also repair or replace spalled, cracked, or damaged bricks to restore the façade’s structural and visual integrity.
3. Stain & Efflorescence Removal
Unsightly staining and salt deposits (efflorescence) are common on aged brickwork. Our tailored treatment removes these blemishes without abrasive blasting or harsh chemicals, protecting both old and modern surfaces.
4. Preserve Heritage & Architectural Character
Whether it’s a listed property or a contemporary build with traditional features, our restoration techniques preserve the original brick’s character and historical value. We match materials and finishes to retain authenticity.
5. Trained Restoration Technicians
Our team is trained in brick conservation, restoration, and softwashing techniques. With full insurance and experience across commercial, heritage, and industrial sites, we approach every job with care, skill, and compliance.
6. Eco-Friendly & Building-Safe Methods
We use pH-neutral, biodegradable products that are safe for surrounding environments, occupants, and materials. No abrasive blasting, no acid damage — just responsible restoration.
7. Minimal Disruption to Daily Operations
We offer flexible scheduling, including after-hours or weekend work, to ensure minimal disruption to your business or tenants. Our approach is tidy, efficient, and discreet.
8. Revive & Protect Your Building’s Legacy
Our restoration service doesn’t just repair — it enhances. We breathe new life into tired façades, boost curb appeal, and protect your property against future degradation. Ideal for businesses, property managers, and developers investing in the long-term value of their buildings.
Head Office, Kane Close,
Cardiff,
South Wales
CF14 5LG
United Kingdom
enquiries@softwashinguk.co.uk
