The DOFF Cleaning System
Low-pressure steam cleaning for delicate stone and brick
The DOFF system uses superheated steam to lift grime, paint and biological growth with minimal water and controlled pressure, making it ideal for sensitive facades, monuments and heritage surfaces across Buckinghamshire, London and the Home Counties.
What is the DOFF Cleaning System?
Gentle steam cleaning for sensitive exteriors
DOFF is a specialist exterior cleaning system that delivers superheated water as a low-pressure “steam” at the nozzle. The heat softens and releases dirt, paint, carbon staining and organic growth, while the low pressure helps protect the surface beneath.
Because it uses minimal water, DOFF reduces saturation in porous materials like stone, brick and lime mortar. That makes it a popular choice for heritage work and delicate substrates where aggressive jet washing could cause damage or drive moisture deep into the fabric.
We continually invest in modern equipment and training to ensure we remain at the forefront of commercial cleaning standards, delivering consistent results our clients can depend on.
Why DOFF, not high-pressure washing?
Clean results, low risk
High-pressure washing can etch softer stone, strip pointing and force water into joints and cavities. DOFF is designed to avoid those problems by using heat to do the work, not brute force.
We start with a conversation about the surface, its age and its condition, then recommend the safest approach. Where needed, we’ll test a small area first, so you can see the finish and we can confirm the best settings before any wider clean.
Every project is planned around access, containment and run-off, with clear method statements and a tidy, professional site. The aim is simple: restore the look of the building while protecting what it’s made from.
Where the DOFF system shines
Ideal for heritage and delicate surfaces
DOFF is well suited to stonework, brickwork, monuments, steps, walls and architectural features that need a careful touch. It’s also effective on algae, lichen and moss that can make surfaces look tired and become slippery underfoot.
If you manage a listed building, school, office, residential block or public space, DOFF can provide a controlled clean that improves kerb appeal without the “sandblasted” look. We’ll advise honestly on what’s achievable and the most appropriate next steps for long-lasting results.
Slough Borough Housing Service have been using Ellemby Ltd for both window cleaning and general cleaning work for the past three years. I have always found Ellemby Ltd to be very professional in their work and very responsive to our requests.
The Company was forthcoming with cost effective suggestions for alternative cleaning solutions that met and exceeded my business requirements.
Ellemby Ltd has held our Building Cleaning Contract since April 2006 to the present date. They have provided the Building Cleaning Contract with excellent support in the area of management, supervision, reliability, honesty, efficiency and meeting the cleaning standards outlined in the contract. We can confidently recommend Ellemby Ltd as a solid and reliable supplier, and experts in their field.
We didn’t realise quite how dirty our windows had got until Ellemby had cleaned them and we received compliments on the building. They also jet washed the paving slabs at the front of the building which made a huge difference to the exterior. They were extremely professional with great communication throughout. I would fully recommend Ellemby to anyone looking for a supplier with a quality finish and great customer service.
I have always found the Company to be reliable and efficient in their business dealings and in their cleaning services. The staff the Company uses I have always found to be polite, friendly and helpful. During the time I have used Ellemby Ltd I have found that they are flexible in their approach to meet my requirements as a customer, some of which have been at very short notice.