Multi-storey buildings face a constant battle against the elements, with dirt, grime, and pollutants relentlessly accumulating on their exteriors. On top of that, most Australian cities are coastal, meaning we have to deal with the added abuse of highly corrosive salt air attacking our buildings on a daily basis.
The accumulation of pollutants and debris on Façade surfaces not only diminishes the aesthetic appeal of your building but also poses significant risks to its structural integrity. Façade cleaning offers a crucial preventative maintenance measure, with benefits that extend far beyond mere aesthetics.
Preventing Facade decay
Owners and managers of multi-storey buildings can often fall into the trap of ‘out of sight, out of mind’. However, neglecting facade cleaning can have far-reaching consequences, stealthily undermining the structural integrity of your building. This can lead to extensive and expensive remediation work as you quickly discover the true cost of neglecting facade maintenance.
Over time, dirt, grime, and pollutants accumulate on building facades, forming a layer that traps moisture and pollutants. The corrosive elements and trapped moisture accelerate the deterioration of painted surfaces, window seals, and expansion joints, significantly reducing their lifespan and increasing maintenance costs.
Built-up grime can also affect parts of the building you may not expect like rendered surfaces, metals, timbers and even glass. When dirt, chemicals and debris accumulate on the surface of the glass, they can etch in and cause permanent damage. Moisture + chemical reactions can also cause the formation of cracks in render allowing water into the substrate and potentially leading to concrete cancer.
Facade cleaning, therefore, plays a pivotal role in preserving the structural integrity of multi-story buildings. By removing these harmful contaminants, regular cleaning prevents premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of building materials and minimising the need for costly remedial works.
Unseen advantages
A clean facade can also influence energy efficiency and indoor air quality. A clean facade reflects sunlight more effectively, reducing the need for artificial lighting and lowering energy consumption. Additionally, regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of pollutants and allergens on building exteriors, contributing to improved indoor air quality for occupants.
Furthermore, facade cleaning can play a role in enhancing the building’s acoustic performance. By removing dirt and grime from surfaces, sound waves are less likely to be absorbed, resulting in reduced noise levels inside the building.
An Opportunity to inspect
While facade cleaning primarily focuses on removing dirt, grime, and pollutants, it also presents an invaluable opportunity to inspect the building’s exterior closely. When conducted by a reputable and experienced rope access technician, facade cleaning provides a detailed view of the building’s facade, allowing for the identification of potential defects and maintenance issues that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Rope access technicians, with their specialised training and equipment, can safely and efficiently access all areas of the facade, conducting a thorough inspection. You can check out our facade inspection checklist here. This proactive approach to building maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems, saving time, money, and potential safety hazards in the long run.
By combining facade cleaning with a comprehensive inspection, property owners can gain valuable insights into the condition of their buildings, ensuring that they are well-maintained and safe for occupants. This holistic approach to facade maintenance not only enhances the building’s aesthetics but also safeguards its structural integrity and longevity
A clear view for residents
In multi-story buildings, windows serve as vital gateways to the outside world, providing residents with natural light, scenic vistas, and a sense of connection to their surroundings. However, over time, windows inevitably accumulate dirt, grime, and pollutants, obscuring these benefits and potentially hindering residents’ well-being. Facade cleaning, therefore, plays a crucial role in restoring clarity and enhancing the living experience for occupants.
Clean windows provide residents with unobstructed views, allowing them to fully appreciate the beauty of their surroundings and enjoy the natural light that streams through. This access to natural light has been shown to positively impact mood, productivity, and overall health. Additionally, clean windows can reduce glare and eye strain, creating a more comfortable and visually appealing living environment.
Related Article; 10 High-Rise Window Cleaning Myths Busted
Enhancing curb appeal
The exterior of a multi-story building serves as its calling card, shaping the first impression that tenants, visitors, and potential buyers form. A clean and well-maintained facade exudes an air of professionalism, creating a welcoming and inviting environment. Conversely, a dirty and neglected exterior can convey a sense of neglect and disrepair, potentially deterring potential tenants and buyers.
Regular facade cleaning ensures that multi-story buildings maintain their curb appeal, projecting an image of care and attention to detail. This, in turn, can enhance the building’s reputation, attracting tenants and increasing its market value.
Summary
Facade cleaning is a crucial maintenance practice that safeguards the structural integrity, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal of multi-story buildings. By removing dirt, grime, and pollutants, regular cleaning prevents premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of building materials and reducing the risk of structural failure. Additionally, facade cleaning enhances curb appeal, attracting tenants and increasing market value.
Invest in regular facade cleaning to protect your building’s investment and enhance its value. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Author Bio
Brad Love is a veteran of the rope access painting and decorating industry, with over 47 years of experience under his belt. Brad is the Service Design and Estimator at Anchor Safe Rope Access and a trusted voice in the painting and decorating community
