“The estates manager was blown away with the end results.”
We recently completed an exterior softwash cleaning project for a college customer in Coatbridge, Scotland.
The educational and community-use building had visible green and brown staining across large areas of its white external walls. The photograph shows the condition of the walls before cleaning, with staining particularly noticeable around lower sections and drainage points.

For an estates or facilities manager, maintaining the appearance of a large building is an important part of the overall maintenance programme. Our job was to clean the affected areas using a suitable softwash method while working carefully around the building’s fixed features.
Softwash cleaning for large external walls
This was a substantial area of wall, including tall elevations with ventilation openings, drainage pipes and other features.
Softwash cleaning treats the surface using cleaning products before it is rinsed. This reduces the need to rely on high-pressure water alone and can be suitable for rendered or coated surfaces where excessive pressure may cause unnecessary wear.
The correct approach depends on the surface and its condition, so each building needs to be assessed individually.
The team used long-reach cleaning equipment from ground level. The work area was clearly marked with barrier tape and warning posts, keeping the equipment and hoses within a defined working area.
A cleaner finish for the college
The finished photograph shows a clear improvement in the appearance of the external walls. The staining visible before cleaning has been substantially reduced, leaving the white surface looking much cleaner and more consistent.
For a facilities or estates team, cleaning can also be worth considering before deciding whether more extensive work, such as repainting, is required. The appropriate solution will depend on the condition and type of surface.
We were particularly pleased to hear that the college’s estates manager was very impressed with the finished result.
Exterior wall cleaning in Coatbridge
This project shows how softwash cleaning can be used to improve the appearance of large external areas on educational and commercial buildings.
If your college, school, commercial property or community building has accumulated staining, algae or weather-related discolouration, QCS Cleaning Specialists can assess the surface and advise on a suitable cleaning method.
If you are responsible for an educational, commercial or community property in Coatbridge or elsewhere in Scotland and the external walls need attention, get in touch with QCS Cleaning Specialists to discuss your requirements.
Interesting Fact About Coatbridge
Coatbridge has a strong industrial heritage. The town grew rapidly during the 19th century as coal mining, iron production and the railways expanded. The Monkland Canal provided an important transport route for coal towards Glasgow. Summerlee Iron Works, established in 1836, became an important part of the area’s industrial history. Today, Coatbridge has a very different character, but its industrial past remains an important part of the town’s identity and local heritage.