Gentle & Effective Stone Cleaning

Restore the natural beauty of your masonry with the industry-leading DOFF Integra system.

Gentle & Effective Stone Cleaning

Professional Steam Cleaning for Delicate Surfaces

Standard pressure washing can be devastating to sandstone, stripping away the protective coating of the stone and leaving it vulnerable to rapid decay. Architectural Conservation uses the DOFF Integra System, a state-of-the-art steam cleaning technology specifically designed for use on listed buildings and monuments.

Architectural Conservation provides a safe, specialist alternative using the industry-leading DOFF Integra system. This advanced technology uses superheated steam rather than aggressive pressure to clean listed buildings, historic monuments, and traditional stone homes throughout Scotland. By relying on heat instead of force, it gently lifts decades of atmospheric soot, carbon staining, and stubborn paint coatings without altering or damaging the underlying stone.

Safe Steam Technology

Safe Steam Technology

The DOFF system uses superheated steam (up to 150°C) delivered at very low pressure. This combination effectively melts away centuries of pollutants without the need for harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

What the DOFF System Removes

Because the DOFF system relies on heat rather than pressure, it is exceptionally effective at removing Biological Growth, Carbon Deposits, Bird Guano and Graffiti.

The stone surface remains saturated for a minimal amount of time and dries within minutes, causing zero distress to the substrate.

Linlithgow Cross Well
Linlithgow Cross Well

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DOFF cleaning, and how does it function?

DOFF is a specialised steam-based cleaning system that utilises high-temperature water (up to 180°C) delivered at low pressure. The process relies on thermal shock to release biological growth, atmospheric pollution, and historic coatings from architectural surfaces rather than mechanical force or abrasive action.

Why is the DOFF system preferred for historic sandstone?

Sandstones prevalent across heritage buildings in Scotland, are highly porous and susceptible to erosion from high-pressure washing. The DOFF system operates at a low pressure threshold, removing surface contaminants without fracturing the stone matrix, damaging historic lime mortar joints, or stripping away the natural protective patina of the masonry.

Does DOFF cleaning risk saturating historic masonry in the climate?

No. Because the water is delivered as superheated steam, the volume of liquid water introduced to the stone is extremely low. The moisture evaporates almost instantly upon impact, preventing the deep substrate saturation that leads to freeze-thaw spalling during colder months.

What specific types of biological growth and pollutants does the system eradicate?

The high temperature kills moss, lichens, algae, and fungal spores at the root, sterilising the substrate to delay regrowth without chemical biocide application. It also liquefies and lifts thermoplastic paints, heavy carbon crusts, bitumen, and oil-based deposits.

Is DOFF cleaning compliant with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) conservation principles?

Yes. The system aligns with HES guidelines regarding minimal intervention and non-destructive conservation. Its chemical-free, low-pressure operation ensures the long-term preservation of listed structures and scheduled monuments while maintaining environmental safety on-site.

Contact Us

Whether you need a building condition report or a quote for restoration work, we're here to help.

Gavin McGrotty

+44 7837 269 683

Our Workshop

12A Nasmyth Court Houston Industrial Estate Livingston