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Façade cleaning Dortmund – DaviDO Facility Services
Fully insured · Guide prices · Dortmund & Ruhrgebiet

Professional façade cleaning in Dortmund & Ruhrgebiet — a clean, well-kept appearance for your property

A façade is a building's calling card. Over time algae, moss, green growth and grime build up, dulling the appearance and stressing the masonry. We clean façades gently, to preserve the value and looks of your property for the long term.

  • Free on-site inspection
  • Cleaning of render, brick, EIFS, natural stone & timber
  • Softwashing instead of aggressive high pressure
  • Transparent guide prices with no hidden costs
  • Service in Dortmund and the Ruhr area
Value preservation & appearance

Why façade cleaning matters

A façade is exposed daily to weather, moisture, UV radiation and environmental strain. Biological growth such as algae and moss retains moisture and can damage masonry over time. Regular, professional cleaning is therefore more than a cosmetic measure.

  • Preserves the façade colour and surface texture
  • Protects against moisture ingress and frost damage
  • Prevents lasting discolouration
  • Improves building appearance and value stability
  • Early detection of cracks and damage

Important: Façade cleaning is an important maintenance measure. It can delay costly renovations and secure the long-term value of your property.

When does façade cleaning make sense?

  • Green or black discolouration

    Algae, moss and fungi have become visible.

  • Dust and soot deposits

    Grime settles especially in urban areas.

  • Before selling or letting

    A clean façade boosts the first impression.

  • Regular value preservation

    Preventive cleaning every 3–7 years.

  • After winter

    Moisture and organic matter build up during autumn and winter.

Get your façade assessed for free

We assess the condition of your façade on site and advise which cleaning method makes sense. Free, no obligation, with a transparent assessment.

Façade types

Which façades can we clean?

Every façade is different. Different materials require different cleaning methods. Professional façade cleaning always starts with a material analysis.

Rendered façades

The most common façade type in Germany

Characteristics

A relatively smooth, absorbent surface. Algae and moss can take hold quickly, especially on shaded north- and west-facing sides.

Typical contamination

  • •Algae and green growth
  • •Moss and fungi
  • •Soot and fine dust
  • •Water stains and limescale residue

Recommended method

  • Softwashing
  • Low-pressure cleaning
  • Mechanical pre-treatment
  • Optional protective treatment

Brick façades

Robust and long-lasting

Characteristics

Very robust, but joints can be damaged by incorrect cleaning. Brick is less absorbent than render, but the texture and joints must be treated gently.

Typical problems

  • •Moss in joints
  • •Algae on the surface
  • •Soot deposits
  • •Leaching caused by moisture

Cleaning recommendation

  • Softwashing preferred
  • Low pressure
  • Joint-friendly methods

EIFS façades

External thermal insulation composite systems

Characteristics

Consist of insulation boards and a thin render or coating system. Particularly sensitive to mechanical damage and water ingress.

Typical contamination

  • •Algae growth
  • •Moss
  • •Grime film
  • •Dew-point related staining

Cleaning

  • Very gentle methods
  • No high pressure
  • Softwashing
  • Protects the insulation layer

Timber façades

Requires especially gentle handling

Wood is a natural product that reacts sensitively to excess moisture and pressure. Incorrect cleaning can roughen the surface.

  • Soft brushes
  • Low pressure
  • Specialised wood cleaners
  • Protective treatment after cleaning

Natural stone façades

Sandstone, granite, limestone

Natural stone is durable, but porous stones can absorb water. Material-appropriate cleaning prevents water stains and damage.

  • Material analysis
  • Gentle brushes
  • No acid without testing
  • Impregnation available

Expert tip: every material needs the right method

A common mistake is applying a single cleaning method to all façade types. Proper cleaning is based on material analysis, soiling level, building height and accessibility.

Not every façade should be treated the same way

Incorrect cleaning can cause more damage than the soiling itself. Free inspection, individual material assessment, gentle methods.

Request a free inspection now
Cleaning methods

What façade cleaning methods are there?

Choosing the right cleaning method is crucial for preserving the façade. The wrong method can damage render, joints, EIFS or natural stone.

Recommended

Softwashing

A gentle cleaning method using low water pressure and biodegradable agents. Algae, moss and fungi are dissolved and killed within the pores. The effect lasts several years.

  • Ideal for sensitive façades
  • Deep-acting cleaning
  • Removes spores
  • Optional protective treatment

High-pressure cleaning

Water at high pressure used to mechanically remove dirt. For façades, high pressure is problematic in most cases and can cause serious damage.

  • Can damage render
  • Joint damage on brick
  • Water ingress into EIFS
  • Roughens surfaces
  • Short-lived cleanliness

Mechanical cleaning

Manual removal of coarse moss and growth using soft brushes. Often used to prepare for softwashing, especially with heavy infestation.

  • Controlled removal
  • No chemicals required
  • Targeted treatment

Method comparison at a glance

MethodEffectRiskRecommendation
SoftwashingVery deep-actingVery low
High-pressure cleaningStrong on the surfaceHigh
MechanicalEffective in spotsLow
Our process

How does professional façade cleaning work?

Proper façade cleaning follows a clear process. Every step is crucial for a lasting and gentle result.

01

Façade inspection & analysis

Detailed on-site inspection: façade material, soiling level, damage, accessibility, building height and surroundings are analysed.

02

Safety setup

Securing the site: scaffolding, aerial platform or telescopic poles, fall protection, barriers and protection of the surroundings.

03

Mechanical pre-cleaning

For heavy infestation: coarse growth is manually removed with soft brushes so the main cleaning can work more effectively.

04

Main cleaning (softwashing)

Application of the cleaning solution, dwell time, gentle rinsing at low pressure. The biological effect continues over several days.

05

Protective treatment (optional)

A water-repellent or anti-biological protective treatment delays regrowth and extends the cleaning effect.

06

Final inspection & documentation

Visual inspection of the whole façade, documentation of the result and handover to the client.

Before / after

Results that speak for themselves

See for yourself what professional façade cleaning can achieve. The difference is immediately visible — and lasting.

Before / after

Illustrative example

Before / after

Illustrative example

Before / after

Illustrative example

Before / after

Illustrative example

Environment & law

Environmental regulations & legal standards

Façade cleaning is regulated by environmental law in Germany. We comply with all relevant regulations.

Water Resources Act (WHG)

Wastewater and cleaning agents must not enter watercourses or sewers uncontrolled. We use collection and filter systems.

Biodegradable agents

We prefer eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning agents without aggressive industrial chemicals.

Water and soil protection

Where required, wastewater is collected, filtered and disposed of properly to protect soil and watercourses.

Occupational safety

BG BAU safety standards

Façade cleaning often takes place at height — this requires professional equipment and trained staff.

Fall protection
Mandatory from 2 m height — certified systems per BG BAU
Personal protective equipment
Helmet, safety shoes, safety harness — complete
Risk assessment
Documented in writing before every job
Fully insured
Public liability insurance protects your property and our team
Why DIY façade cleaning is risky
  • • Fall risk without protection
  • • Wrong technique → material damage
  • • Use of unsuitable products
  • • Liability issues in case of damage

Safety, expertise and the right technique are what matter

Our façade cleaning doesn't just protect your façade — it also protects you from the risks of incorrect methods.

Request a free quote now
Costs

What does façade cleaning cost?

Costs depend on façade material, size, soiling level, accessibility and building height. A serious price indication is always only a guide — every façade must be assessed individually.

Guide price from 490 €

All prices include 19% VAT and travel within 25 km of Dortmund. Beyond that: €0.95 per one-way km beyond 25 km.

Private customers: approximately 20% of labour costs are tax-deductible (§35a EStG).

Non-binding guide price. Binding fixed price after inspection or photo check.

Detailed cost guide (German)

Render
€10–25
per m²
Brick
€12–30
per m²
EIFS
€12–28
per m²
Natural stone
€15–40
per m²
Timber
€15–35
per m²

* Guide prices. Exact prices after a free inspection.

What determines the cost?

1. Façade area

The larger the area, the lower the price per square metre.

2. Soiling level

Light dirt means less effort. Heavy algae growth requires more treatment.

3. Façade material

Sensitive materials like EIFS or timber require more care.

4. Building height

Taller buildings need scaffolding or aerial platforms.

5. Accessibility

Easy access reduces effort. Obstacles or tight areas increase it.

6. Additional services

Protective treatment, impregnation or combination with other services.

Why cheap façade cleaning is risky

Very cheap offers are often based on uncontrolled high pressure, no analysis and untrained staff. Possible consequences: damaged render, roughened surfaces, water ingress into EIFS and long-term renovation costs. A cheap cleaning job can end up costing more than not cleaning at all.

Cleaning interval

How often should a façade be cleaned?

Frequency depends heavily on the surroundings and location.

Urban area (Dortmund, Ruhr area)Every 3–5 years
Rural areasEvery 5–7 years
Near woodland / heavy shadeEvery 2–4 years

Early warning signs

  • Green or black discolouration
  • Moss growth, especially in joints
  • Water stains or haze
  • Dark deposits from road traffic
  • Discoloured window sills
Value preservation

Common mistakes in façade maintenance

Mistake 1: Using high pressure

Can damage render, joints and EIFS, cause water ingress and roughen surfaces.

Mistake 2: Waiting too long

Algae and moss penetrate deeper, making cleaning more involved and expensive.

Mistake 3: Wrong products

Aggressive chemicals can attack the façade paint and material.

Mistake 4: No protective treatment

Without impregnation or a protective coating, growth returns faster.

Protective measures after cleaning

  • Water-repellent impregnation
  • Anti-algae protection
  • Regular visual inspection
  • Combined with gutter cleaning
Our service area

Façade cleaning in Dortmund & the Ruhr area

As a local specialist company we operate directly in Dortmund and the Ruhr area. Short travel distances, fast appointment scheduling and regional experience with typical Ruhr area façades.

Dortmund
Bochum
Essen
Hagen
Witten
Unna
Lünen
Castrop-Rauxel
Herne

Façade cleaning Dortmund: As a Dortmund-based specialist we offer free on-site inspections in Dortmund and the surrounding towns.

Benefits

Why customers choose DaviDO

  • Free on-site inspection
  • Material-appropriate cleaning — no one-size-fits-all methods
  • Softwashing instead of high pressure — gentle and sustainable
  • Transparent guide prices with no hidden costs
  • Work to German standards and WHG
  • Fully insured — public liability
  • Service in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
  • Documented completion report
Our promise

What we promise you

Long-term value preservation

Professional cleaning protects the building material and preserves your property's value.

Improved appearance

Algae, moss and discolouration are removed — the façade looks well-kept again.

Protection from moisture

Removing moisture-retaining growth reduces long-term strain on the façade.

Long-term cost savings

Cleaning is far cheaper than later renovation. Early maintenance pays off.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about façade cleaning

Answers to the most important questions — from cost to methods to legal regulations.

Façade cleaning is the professional cleaning of a building's exterior walls. It removes algae, moss, fungi, dirt, soot, dust and other deposits that affect the value and appearance of the property.

Regular façade cleaning protects the building material, prevents lasting discolouration, preserves property value and significantly improves appearance. Biological growth can damage masonry over time.

We clean render, brick, natural stone, timber, EIFS (external thermal insulation composite systems), glass and metal façades. Each façade type requires a specific, material-friendly cleaning method.

Costs depend on façade type, size, soiling, accessibility and building height. As a guide: render from approx. €10–25/m², brick €12–30/m², EIFS €12–28/m², natural stone €15–40/m². Exact prices after a free inspection.

Usually every 3–7 years, depending on location and surroundings. Façades in shaded, damp locations or near busy roads soil faster and need more frequent cleaning.

Softwashing is a gentle cleaning method using low water pressure and specially formulated, biodegradable cleaning solutions. It dissolves algae, moss and fungi in the pores and has a long-lasting effect against regrowth.

High pressure is unsuitable for many façade types, as it can damage render, joints and EIFS. Softwashing or low-pressure cleaning is the better choice in most cases.

For small, easily accessible areas this is generally possible. For large areas, sensitive materials or work at height, a specialist company is safer and more effective.

Depending on size and condition, façade cleaning usually takes half a day to three working days. EIFS and natural stone façades often need more time than smooth rendered ones.

Spring to autumn, in dry conditions with temperatures above 5°C, is ideal. Cleaning should be postponed during frost or heavy rain.

Professional softwashing dissolves algae, moss and fungi including their roots. An optional protective treatment considerably delays regrowth.

Façade cleaning removes surface deposits and biological growth. Façade renovation repairs structural damage such as cracks, flaking render or damp patches.

No, cleaning is not a substitute for repair. However, any visible issues found during cleaning are documented so you can act early.

Yes, when biodegradable cleaning agents and controlled methods are used. We avoid aggressive chemicals and collect wastewater when required.

Façade cleaning is subject to the Water Resources Act (WHG), water protection regulations and the requirements of the German construction trade association (BG BAU) for work at height.

Not necessarily. If access to the property is arranged, work can be carried out without you being present. We agree this in advance.

Yes, we clean façades of single-family homes, apartment buildings, terraced houses, commercial properties and industrial buildings. For larger properties we prepare individual quotes.

Yes, we support property management companies and housing associations. Regular maintenance intervals and transparent documentation are particularly important here.

Yes, we clean façades of office buildings, hotels, warehouses, schools and shops. Larger and taller buildings require special planning.

An external thermal insulation composite system (EIFS) consists of insulation boards and a render or coating system. It is cleaned especially gently to avoid damaging the insulation.

Yes, brick is cleaned using special, material-friendly methods. Excessive pressure can damage joints and brick surfaces.

Timber façades are treated especially gently, often with brushes and specialised wood cleaners. Too much water pressure can roughen the wood and damage the surface.

Yes, natural stone such as sandstone, granite or limestone is cleaned to suit the material. Particularly porous stones require gentle methods to prevent water ingress.

Typical contaminants include algae, moss, fungi, green growth, soot, fine dust, bird droppings, resin, limescale deposits and road-traffic grime.

In cities like Dortmund and the Ruhr area, fine dust, soot and exhaust fumes settle on façades. Combined with moisture, algae and green growth form more quickly.

Green growth is a mix of algae, moss and fungi that grows especially on shaded, damp façade areas. It discolours the façade green and can stress the material.

Yes, over time biological growth can channel moisture into the façade, which can lead to damage such as cracks, spalling or dampness.

An optional protective treatment makes the façade water-repellent and makes it harder for algae and moss to return. It significantly extends the cleaning effect.

Usually 2–5 years without a protective treatment, and 5–8 years or longer with one, depending on location and surroundings.

Wastewater is collected, filtered and disposed of properly where required. With eco-friendly cleaning agents and light soiling, it can often drain in a controlled manner.

Yes for taller buildings or hard-to-reach areas. For lower buildings, telescopic poles, aerial platforms or special ground-based cleaning systems can also be used.

For your owner-occupied home you can deduct 20% of the labour costs via §35a EStG. For rented or commercial properties, the costs are usually deductible as business expenses.

Yes, a clean façade improves visual appeal and helps preserve property value. A well-maintained façade pays off especially when selling or letting.

Prices depend on façade area, material, soiling level, building height, access and any additional services such as a protective treatment.

After a free inspection or a detailed remote assessment, we provide transparent guide-price quotes with no hidden costs.

Typical process: inspection and material analysis, quote, safety setup, pre-cleaning, main cleaning, optional protective treatment, final inspection and documentation.

Dwell time depends on the method and soiling. With softwashing it can be several hours to days, as the biological effect continues after application.

Heavy rain should be avoided as it can wash out the cleaning agents and reduce their effect. Light drizzle is usually not a problem.

Not all façade paints tolerate all cleaning agents. We test on an inconspicuous spot beforehand and choose a method that won't attack the paint.

Graffiti removal is a specialist service that often requires different methods and products. We're happy to advise whether graffiti removal is possible as part of the façade cleaning.

You can reach us by phone or via our contact form. We arrange a free inspection appointment and provide you with a no-obligation quote.

Yes, we operate in Dortmund and the entire Ruhr area as well as many regions of North Rhine-Westphalia, including Bochum, Essen, Hagen, Witten, Unna, Lünen and Castrop-Rauxel.

Yes, we carry full public liability insurance. This protects your property and you as the client in case of any damage.

We work to BG BAU requirements with certified fall protection, scaffolding or aerial platforms. Safety is our top priority.

Yes, many customers combine façade cleaning with roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, window cleaning or paving cleaning. This saves on travel costs and effort.

For sensitive and listed buildings we work especially gently and align the method with the applicable requirements.

With professional cleaning using material-friendly methods, the risk is very low. Should damage occur regardless, we are covered by our public liability insurance.

After cleaning, we carry out a visual inspection of the façade. If needed, we document the result with photos so you can see the before-and-after comparison.

Ensure free access to the façade, remove valuable items from the work area, and make sure windows and doors are closed.

Not when done professionally. We make sure that cleaning water doesn't get into window rebates or open windows.

For most façades, softwashing is the better choice as it is gentler and works more deeply. High pressure is only suitable for select, robust industrial façades.

Yes, you can request a no-obligation appointment through our booking system or contact form. We'll then get back to you with a concrete quote.
More services

Everything from a single source

In addition to façade cleaning, we offer all the important exterior cleaning services for your property.

Your façade deserves professional care — we make sure it gets it.

A soiled façade isn't just a cosmetic problem — it's a sign of long-term material stress. Professional façade cleaning protects your investment, preserves value and gives your property a well-kept appearance.

  • Free on-site inspection
  • Guide-price quote with no surprises
  • Softwashing — gentle & sustainable
  • Service in Dortmund & the Ruhr area
Free & no obligation

Which cleaning method suits your facade?

Have the condition checked beforehand — by photo or with a free on-site test service.