Paint Removal with Doff and Thermatech Steam Cleaning

Restore your Heritage Building with Expert Steam Cleaning & Paint Removal

Is your historic or listed building looking weathered, tarnished by grime, algae, or cloaked under layers of old paint? Our specialised DOFF and ThermaTech steam cleaning systems offer the ultimate solution for meticulously restoring delicate stonework, brick, and masonry. Utilising cutting-edge, non-destructive technology, we gently eliminate dirt, biological growth, and unwanted coatings—all without resorting to harsh chemicals or abrasive techniques.

Unlike conventional high-pressure jet washing, which can inflict irreversible harm on fragile surfaces, our advanced steam cleaning methods employ low-pressure superheated water to expunge contaminants without driving moisture deep into porous materials. This approach averts erosion, cracking, and waterlogging, common pitfalls associated with pressure washers on sensitive heritage substrates.

As the sole company in the North West providing both DOFF/ThermaTech steamcleaning and Microstripping media blasting, we ensure the most effective and considerate strategy for every project. Whether you require a comprehensive building cleanse or specialised paint removal, we possess the expertise and technology to safeguard and preserve your property while delivering exceptional results.

Building Paint Removal With Doff and Thermatech Steam Systems

• Our DOFF and ThermaTech steam cleaning systems present a highly efficient yet gentle solution for heritage building restoration, stonework cleaning, and delicate masonry preservation. These systems are endorsed by Historic England and recommended by the National Trust and English Heritage for the safe restoration of historic structures due to their non abrasive approach.

Paint Removal with Doff and Thermatech Steam Cleaning

Our DOFF and ThermaTech steam cleaning systems are highly effective for paint and coating removal, particularly for plasticised paints, synthetic coatings, and graffiti removal on heritage and listed buildings. These systems utilise controlled high temperature steam to break down and lift away layers of paint, ensuring that the underlying substrate remains intact and undamaged.

Determining the Best Paint Removal Method

Not all paint removal processes are the same, and the most appropriate technique depends on the composition of the paint and the surface material it has been applied to. Before beginning, our specialists will:
1. Assess the Paint Type:

• Plasticised paints (modern coatings designed for weather resistance) soften under superheated steam and can be effectively removed using DOFF or ThermaTech.
• Acrylic and synthetic paints may require multiple steam passes to break down the layers properly.
• Oil based and lead based paints require precise temperature control to ensure safe removal without dispersing hazardous particles.
• Mineral based paints (such as limewash and silicate coatings) chemically bond with the substrate and cannot be effectively removed with steam alone—these require Microstripping media blasting for safe and thorough removal.

2. Evaluate the Underlying Surface:

• Soft sandstone, limestone, or aged brick may require a more delicate approach with lower temperatures to prevent damage.
• Harder surfaces, such as granite or dense brick, can tolerate higher steam temperatures and prolonged exposure.
• Decorative carvings, intricate facades, and historic inscriptions demand careful attention to preserve detailing.

3. Select the Appropriate System:

• DOFF steam cleaning operates at low pressure with superheated water (150°C), making it ideal for gentle removal of thin and flexible paint coatings.
• ThermaTech cleaning provides more precise temperature control, allowing for tailored adjustments depending on the paint type.
• Microstripping media blasting is recommended for mineral based coatings and heavily embedded paints that steam alone cannot remove.

How Does The Paint Removal Process Work?

1. Controlled Steam Application:

• The DOFF or ThermaTech system is adjusted to the optimal temperature and pressure to suit the specific paint type.
• Superheated steam is directed at the surface, causing the paint to soften and lift from the substrate.
• The process is carefully monitored to prevent overheating or excessive moisture retention.

2. Layer-by-Layer Lifting:

• The steam penetrates multiple layers of paint, breaking down the binders holding the paint to the surface.
• If required, the process is repeated to fully release thicker coatings or multiple repainted layers.

3. Safe Paint Removal & Collection:

• Once softened, the paint is gently removed without scraping or damaging the original surface.
• For surfaces with heavily adhered coatings, additional cycles of steam application are performed.
• Protective sheeting and collection systems are used to prevent contamination of surrounding areas, especially when dealing with lead-based or hazardous coatings.

4. Final Rinse & Drying:

• The surface is lightly rinsed with low-pressure clean water to ensure all residues are removed.
• Due to the high temperature of the steam, the surface dries quickly, preventing water absorption and minimising damage risks.

5. Inspection & Additional Conservation Recommendations:

• Our experts perform a final assessment to check for any residual paint layers or staining.
• If required, further cleaning passes or conservation treatments may be recommended to restore the substrate fully.

When is Microstripping Required Instead of Steam Cleaning?

While DOFF and ThermaTech steam cleaning are highly effective for many types of paint removal, they are not suitable for mineral-based paints that chemically bond to the surface. In these cases, we advise:

• Microstripping media blasting, which uses fine mineral abrasives at low pressure to gently remove stubborn coatings without harming delicate substrates.
• A combination approach, where DOFF or ThermaTech steam is used first to break down upper layers, followed by Microstripping for complete removal.

🔗 Learn more about Microstripping Paint Removal here: Microstripping Paint Removal

Paint Removal Efficiency & Rates

Please note these rates do not include setup, clean-up, or breakdown time and are meant as a general guide for project planning.

• Plasticised & modern paints: 5-10m² per hour
• Thicker coatings & multiple paint layers: 3-5m² per hour
• Graffiti removal: Varies based on type and surface absorption
• Mineral-based paints: Steam cleaning is NOT effective – Microstripping media blasting is required, please search paint removal in the blasting section, or we can advise the best solution on a video call or site visit. 

Why Choose DOFF & Thermatech for Paint Removal?

✔ Non-Abrasive & Safe for Historic Surfaces – Avoids scraping, etching, or surface damage. ✔ Tailored to Paint Type – Ensures the most effective removal technique is selected. ✔ Environmentally Friendly – Uses only water, no hazardous chemicals. ✔ Long-Lasting Results – Restores the original masonry appearance without damaging its integrity. ✔ Heritage-Approved – Trusted by conservation professionals for listed and historic buildings.

CONTACT US TODAY📞 Let’s assess your property and recommend the best paint removal solution! Fill in our enquiry form for a free consultation.