Cladding Repair

The Complete Guide to Commercial Cladding Cleaning 



At PPS Maintenance, we work with commercial and industrial clients across Ireland who want to protect, refresh, and extend the lifespan of their building exteriors. One of the most important aspects of exterior upkeep is cladding cleaning—a service that keeps your property looking professional while preventing costly long-term damage.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about cladding, why it requires specialist cleaning, and how PPS Maintenance carries out safe, effective cleaning for all cladding materials. If you have a question that isn't covered here, get in touch—our team is always happy to advise.

Cladding is an external layer fixed to the structure of a building. It acts as a protective skin while enhancing visual appearance, insulation, and durability. Businesses use cladding for both functional and architectural reasons.

Common cladding materials include:

  • Metal (aluminium, steel, zinc, copper)

  • uPVC and plastics

  • Timber

  • Concrete panels

  • Composite and sandwich panels

  • Glazing systems

  • Brick slips and stone veneer

Each material behaves differently and requires the right cleaning method to protect its finish and structural integrity.


What Is Commercial Cladding Cleaning?

Commercial cladding cleaning involves removing dirt, algae, moss, mould, lichen, pollutants, and weather staining from the exterior of a business premises. The method chosen depends on:

  • The material

  • The age of the building

  • Height and access requirements

  • The level of contamination

At PPS Maintenance, we evaluate each site to select the safest and most effective cleaning approach.


Why Clean Your Cladding?

1. Creates a Strong First Impression

Your building is often the first point of contact for clients, suppliers, and staff. Clean exteriors project professionalism and pride in your business.

2. Prevents Long-Term Damage

Mould, moss, corrosion, and grime can break down protective coatings and compromise the cladding material if left untreated.

3. Extends the Lifespan of the Cladding

Routine maintenance helps you avoid early replacements, structural issues, and major refurbishments.

4. Protects Warranties and Lease Agreements

Some cladding systems require regular cleaning to maintain warranty validity.
If you lease your premises, you may be responsible for exterior upkeep under a full repair lease.

How PPS Maintenance Cleans Cladding

Different cladding types demand different techniques. PPS Maintenance specialises in:

  • Algae and lichen removal

  • Protective coatings

  • Oxidation removal on metal cladding

  • Stain and rust removal

Soft Washing

A low-pressure, chemical-assisted cleaning method ideal for removing organic growth without damaging surfaces.

Power Washing (Used Selectively)

For robust surfaces such as concrete or industrial metal, controlled high-pressure washing may be used.

    All work is carried out safely by trained technicians, with strict adherence to working-at-height regulations.

    Buildings That Require Cladding Cleaning

    Cladding is found across a wide range of facilities, including:

    • Warehouses & industrial units

    • Office buildings

    • Car dealerships

    • Retail units & shopping centres

    • Schools, campuses & public buildings

    • Distribution centres

    • Manufacturing plants

    • Apartment blocks & multi-storey buildings

    • Sports facilities & stadiums

    • Historic properties (with specialist care)

    If your building has an exterior, it will benefit from regular cleaning—simple as that.

    Important Considerations When Scheduling Your Cladding Cleaning

    How Often Should Cladding Be Cleaned?

    Frequency depends on:

    • Your location (coastal, industrial, rural, etc.)

    • The type of cladding

    • Traffic pollution levels

    • Weather exposure

    Most businesses benefit from annual or bi-annual cleaning, but we can provide a tailored maintenance plan.


    Benefits of Hiring PPS Maintenance

    1. Professional Image

    A clean façade enhances your business reputation and creates a welcoming environment.

    2. Specialist Equipment

    We use industry-standard soft wash systems, access platforms, and commercial-grade tools.

    3. Trained Technicians

    Our team is fully trained in:

    • Working at height

    • Safe chemical handling

    • Industrial cleaning systems

    4. Minimal Disruption

    All work is completed efficiently and safely without interrupting your daily operations.

    5. Long-Term Protection

    Regular cleaning helps protect your building asset and prevents costly repairs.


      Regular cladding cleaning is a smart investment for any business that wants to maintain its professional appearance, preserve the structure of its building, and reduce long-term costs. PPS Maintenance provides specialist commercial and industrial cladding cleaning tailored to your building materials and operational needs.