Understanding Facade Cleaning
Over time, historic façades accumulate dirt, biological growth, pollution, soot, and other surface contaminants that obscure original materials and accelerate deterioration. While cleaning can dramatically improve appearance, improper methods can permanently damage masonry, erode surface finishes, or force moisture deeper into the structure.
Façade cleaning focuses on removing harmful deposits while preserving the integrity of historic materials. The goal is not to make a building look new, but to reduce damaging buildup and reveal the character of the original surface without altering it.
When performed as part of a thoughtful restoration strategy, façade cleaning can improve building performance, support future repairs, and extend the life of masonry, stone, brick, and decorative elements.
When Is Façade Cleaning Needed?
Façade cleaning is often undertaken when surface buildup begins to trap moisture, encourage biological growth, or obscure signs of underlying deterioration. Common indicators include dark staining, algae or moss growth, soot accumulation, efflorescence, or uneven discoloration caused by water runoff.
Cleaning is also frequently recommended prior to repointing, stone repair, or conservation work so that conditions can be properly evaluated and repairs can bond effectively to clean substrates.
Why Façade Cleaning Matters in Historic Structures
Historic masonry surfaces were never intended to be aggressively cleaned. Abrasive methods, high-pressure washing, or harsh chemicals can remove protective surface layers and permanently change the texture and appearance of historic materials.
Proper façade cleaning respects the age, softness, and porosity of historic stone and brick. Using gentle, controlled techniques ensures that contaminants are removed without accelerating decay or compromising the building’s historic fabric.
Façade Cleaning in Practice
Our Approach to Historic Restoration
Meet & Discuss
Reference from previous clients and similar preservation work will be presented along with a letter of experience documenting Restoration Artisans, LLC. previously accomplished projects.
Diagnose
Each historic masonry restoration project requires a unique diagnosis of the issues that contributed to the necessity for repairs. Restoration Artisans will first understand the contributing factors that caused the repairs, then suggest an appropriate course of action to restore the structure correctly.
Propose Solutions
Restoration Artisans will propose a thoughtful solution, based on successful historic masonry restoration projects, that will provide a lasting repair to the specific needs of the structure without accelerating deterioration to the facade.
Restoration Project
Using the highest quality materials and techniques, Restoration Artisans will begin the process of restoring the building to it’s original glory, being sensitive to the historic nature of the structure and respectful of the surrounding property. Whether it is a colonial limestone farmhouse that requires lime mortar repointing, a brownstone building that is need of repair with Jahn Restoration Mortars and stone replacement, or a historic bank barn that requires structural stonemasonry and woodworking repairs, Restoration Artisans can help.
How This Method Is Typically Applied
Façade cleaning is typically approached as an early or preparatory step within a larger restoration project. Before cleaning begins, surfaces are evaluated to determine material type, condition, and appropriate cleaning methods.
Cleaning techniques are selected based on the specific needs of the building and may vary across different areas of the façade. The process is carefully monitored to ensure that surfaces are cleaned evenly and without unintended damage, leaving the building ready for repair, conservation, or continued service.
Related Methods Commonly Used Alongside
Façade cleaning is often coordinated with other restoration methods, including:
Together, these methods help protect cleaned surfaces and address the underlying causes of deterioration.
We’re Here to Help With Your Façade Cleaning Projects
From initial assessment through long-term restoration planning, we help property owners make informed decisions rooted in historic accuracy and proven conservation practices.
Proudly serving Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania, including:
Montgomery County (PA), Gladwyne, Villanova, Bryn Mawr, Haverford, Ardmore, Rosemont, Chester County (PA), Wayne, Devon, Berwyn, Hershey, Hummelstown, Lower Paxton Township, Linglestown, Susquehanna Township, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Hampden Township, Upper Allen Township, Silver Spring Township, South Lebanon Township, North Cornwall Township, Cornwall, Mount Gretna, Cleona, Shrewsbury, New Freedom, Lititz, Manheim Township, East Hempfield Township, Lancaster Township, Neffsville
