Steam Cleaning
Brickwork, stonework, and rendered properties in Devon and Somerset can sometimes be vulnerable to high pressure or even low-pressure chemical cleaning. Our specialist steam cleaning approach is gentle yet powerful on sensitive surfaces, removing stains, algae, mould and organic growth quickly and safely.
Serving home owners across Exeter, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Cullompton, Exmouth and Taunton, our expert Doff steam cleaning service provides fast, safe and impressive transformations of garden walls, brickwork, masonry, whole buildings, and any hard surface that is sensitive and not suitable for high pressure or chemical cleaning.
What is Steam Cleaning?
DOFF steam cleaning is a specialist exterior cleaning method that uses low pressure and very high temperature steam to safely remove dirt, staining and organic growth from external surfaces. Water is heated within the DOFF machine to temperatures of up to 150°C, producing super-heated steam that cleans effectively without the need for harsh chemicals or high pressure.
Unlike traditional pressure washing, steam cleaning does not saturate surfaces or cause erosion. The low-pressure application prevents damage while the intense heat breaks down grime, kills spores and sanitises the area. Surfaces typically dry within minutes, reducing disruption and risk.
Uses low pressure and high-temperature steam (up to 150°C)
No harsh chemicals or abrasive methods
Minimal water usage with fast drying times
Masonry BEFORE Steam Cleaning
Masonry AFTER Steam Cleaning
Steam Cleaning Brickwork & Masonry
Brick, stone and masonry can easily be damaged by aggressive pressure washing. Steam cleaning provides a far safer alternative, making it ideal for period properties, listed buildings and modern homes alike.
The DOFF system removes carbon staining, atmospheric pollution, moss, algae and bird fouling without causing thermal shock or deep saturation. Because the steam operates at low pressure, mortar joints and delicate stonework remain intact.
It is also highly effective for tackling stubborn issues such as graffiti, oil staining and chewing gum. The intense heat breaks down adhesive bonds and lifts residues cleanly away from the surface.
Safe for brick, natural stone, limestone, sandstone and terracotta
Removes staining, algae, moss and pollution build-up
Ideal for heritage and conservation projects
Steam Cleaning Buildings
Steam cleaning is suitable for a wide range of residential setting from external render, brick, stonework or natural soft stone surfaces, it provides a deep yet controlled clean.
Approved by conservation bodies and widely used on listed structures, DOFF steam cleaning avoids the risks associated with high-pressure washing. It does not strip protective surface layers or drive water deep into substrates, making it the preferred method for sensitive architecture.
Because surfaces dry rapidly, there is minimal disruption to the home owner.
Suitable for historic, listed and modern buildings
Effective on stone, brick, concrete and render
Low disruption with rapid drying
Listed Building BEFORE Cleaning
Listed Building AFTER Cleaning
Benefits of The Doff Steam Cleaning System
Safest On Surfaces
The DOFF system is widely recognised as one of the safest exterior cleaning methods available. Its combination of low pressure and high heat prevents surface erosion, etching or damage to pointing.
It does not rely on force to remove dirt. Instead, the heat gently loosens contaminants while preserving the structural integrity of the material beneath.
No high-pressure abrasion
No thermal shock to masonry
Protects mortar joints and delicate finishes
Removes & Kills Organic Matter
One of the key advantages of steam cleaning is its ability not only to remove organic growth but to kill it at the root. Temperatures reaching 150°C eliminate algae, moss, mould and mildew spores, reducing the likelihood of rapid regrowth.
This makes steam cleaning particularly effective for shaded elevations, damp-prone walls and areas affected by persistent biological staining.
Eliminates moss, algae, mould and mildew
Removes bird droppings and organic staining
Reduces regrowth by killing spores at source
Fast Drying
Traditional cleaning methods can leave walls saturated for days. Steam cleaning uses significantly less water, meaning surfaces dry within minutes rather than hours. This reduces the risk of damp penetration and allows treated areas to return to normal use quickly.
Minimal water usage
Surfaces dry rapidly
Lower risk of water ingress
Environmentally Friendly Cleaning
Steam cleaning is an environmentally responsible solution. It uses only heat and water — no harsh chemicals, detergents or biocides are required in most applications. Because it relies on temperature rather than chemical reaction, it is safer for surrounding landscaping, wildlife and drainage systems.
No chemical runoff
Reduced environmental impact
Safe for surrounding plants and surfaces
Paintwork AFTER Steam Cleaning
Paintwork BEFORE Steam Cleaning
Why Choose Devon Surface Care for Steam Cleaning?
At Devon Surface Care, we specialise in professional DOFF steam cleaning in Exeter, Devon and across the region. Our team combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to safety, quality and customer satisfaction.
We follow an exhaustive and HSE-approved approach to site safety, ensuring every project is completed responsibly and professionally. As a fully insured local company, clients can have complete peace of mind.
Our reputation speaks for itself, with hundreds of 9 and 10-star reviews on Checkatrade, reflecting our consistent track record of high-quality workmanship and customer care. We are proud to operate with an ethical, community-focused approach to business, delivering results that enhance and protect local properties.
Local, family run business passionate about customer service
Fully insured and safety-focused service
Experienced in heritage and sensitive surface cleaning
If you are looking for a safe, effective and conservation-approved exterior cleaning solution, Devon Surface Care provides trusted DOFF steam cleaning services tailored to your property’s needs.
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Whether it’s a single project, emergency situation or long-term service agreement, we’re here to ensure your home looks its best and is safe all year around for you to enjoy.
What sets us apart? Our experienced teams and commitment to excellence. We take pride in transforming spaces, building long-lasting, trusted partnerships with our clients.
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FAQs - Pressure Washing
DOFF steam cleaning works safely on a wide range of materials that might be damaged by traditional high-pressure methods.
Brick, stone, masonry, terracotta and concrete
Render, historic and listed surfaces
Hard paving, patios, chewing gum and graffiti removal
It is particularly suited to porous, fragile or heritage surfaces where gentle heat is preferred over abrasive pressure.
The DOFF steam cleaning system is a specialist exterior cleaning method that uses superheated steam (up to ~150 °C) delivered at low pressure to gently and effectively remove dirt, biological growth, staining and contaminants from surfaces. It cleans using heat rather than high-pressure water — softening and lifting grime without risk of surface erosion or deep saturation.
Uses low-pressure, superheated steam
Ideal for delicate or historic surfaces
Approved for conservation and sensitive cleaning work
The duration of a steam cleaning job depends on the size and condition of the area being cleaned.
Small residential façades or sections can often be completed in a single day
Larger or more complex buildings may take longer
Surfaces typically dry within minutes after cleaning due to minimal water use
A site survey helps provide a more accurate timeline tailored to your property. Please call our team for advice on
DOFF steam cleaning is generally quieter than many high-pressure systems. The machine operates at low pressure and uses steam generation rather than forceful blasting, which reduces operational noise. While there is some noise from the boiler and equipment, it is typically less intrusive than traditional pressure washing, making it suitable for sensitive sites and populated areas.
Lower operational volume than high-pressure jetting
Less disruptive for residential or heritage areas
Ideal for sites where noise control is important
For delicate and historic surfaces, YES — DOFF steam cleaning is safer and more effective than traditional pressure washing.
Steam uses high heat and low pressure, reducing risk of erosion
Pressure washing uses high water force, which can damage stone, brick or mortar
DOFF steam cleaning dries quickly and helps kill organic growth
Pressure washing still has its place for hard, non-porous surfaces (e.g., concrete driveways), but for sensitive exterior finishes, steam cleaning is often the superior choice.
Costs for DOFF steam cleaning vary based on surface type, area size, contamination level and access requirements.
Larger or more complex projects cost more
Difficult access (e.g., scaffolding) may increase price
Heavily soiled or stained surfaces may require multiple passes
Because DOFF steam cleaning uses specialised equipment and expertise, it tends to be more expensive than basic pressure washing — but it also reduces the risk of damage and often offers longer-lasting results, particularly on sensitive or heritage surfaces.
Call us to arrange a free steam cleaning quote: 01884 370 073
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