What is DOFF steam cleaning - and is it safe for my house?
If you’ve researched brick cleaning you’ll have seen ‘DOFF’ mentioned a lot - especially around period and listed buildings. So what is it?
In short: it’s a way of cleaning masonry with heat instead of harsh chemicals or aggressive pressure.
It’s become the default choice for sensitive buildings - but it’s worth understanding how it works and where it fits before you book any clean.
How DOFF works
The DOFF system produces superheated steam - up to around 150°C at the nozzle - but delivers it at very low pressure. The heat does the cleaning, not force, so it lifts dirt without eroding the surface.
Because it uses relatively little water and that water is hot, walls dry quickly and there’s little risk of saturation.
Why it’s so well suited to older buildings
The combination of low pressure and no chemicals makes DOFF one of the safest cleaning methods available - which is why it’s widely accepted for listed buildings and conservation areas.
- Removes carbon, soot, algae, moss and lichen
- Kills spores, slowing regrowth
- Safe on soft brick, stone, terracotta and ornate detail
- No chemical run-off into gardens or drains
Is DOFF right for every job?
DOFF excels on delicate, historic and detailed masonry, and on biological staining like algae and moss. For heavy mortar smears on new brickwork, or certain paint types, a different or additional method may be quicker and more effective.
That’s why we survey and test first rather than assuming one method fits all. Often DOFF is the answer; sometimes we’ll recommend combining it with a targeted treatment. Either way you’ll know the plan, and see a test result, before we start.
Frequently asked questions
How much will the work cost?+
Every job is quoted individually after a free survey, so you get an accurate fixed price rather than a vague estimate. There’s no charge for the quote and no obligation to go ahead.
Do you cover my area?+
We’re Manchester-based and cover the whole of Greater Manchester and Cheshire - including Stockport, Salford, Trafford, Altrincham, Sale, Ashton-under-Lyne and Hyde.
Can you quote from photos?+
Often, yes. A few clear photos and your postcode are usually enough for a ballpark figure, and we’ll confirm it with a quick visit before any work starts.
Are you insured and guaranteed?+
Yes - we carry full public liability insurance and guarantee our workmanship on every job.
How Quick Point can help
If anything here applies to your property, the next step is simple: book a free, no-obligation survey. We'll look at your brickwork in person, explain what (if anything) it needs, and give you a clear fixed price. We cover Manchester, Cheshire and Tameside, every job is fully insured and guaranteed, and we'll always give you honest advice - including telling you when work can safely wait.
Related reading
Ready for a free, no-obligation quote?
We're on site across the area every day - the quickest way to reach us is the contact form. Send a few details and we'll come and take a look.