Industrial Roof Cleaning & Mustard Lichen Removal
Restore Performance • Protect Your Building • Improve Appearance
Over time, industrial and commercial roofs naturally accumulate dirt, moss, algae, and stubborn growths such as mustard lichen. Left untreated, these contaminants can accelerate roof deterioration, block drainage paths, affect thermal efficiency, and give your building an unprofessional appearance.
Our industrial roof cleaning service provides a safe, efficient, and regulation-compliant solution to restore your roof’s condition and prolong its lifespan. Using specialist steam-cleaning techniques, we remove built-up debris and eliminate mustard lichen without damaging the roof surface or disrupting your daily operations.
Why Industrial Roof Cleaning Matters
✔ Preserve & Extend Roof Lifespan
Dirt and organic growth trap moisture against the roof surface. Mustard lichen, in particular, creates a thick, crust-like layer that holds water and gradually breaks down coatings, protective layers, and even steel profiles. Routine cleaning prevents premature corrosion and saves you money on expensive repairs.
✔ Improve Roof Performance & Drainage
Blocked gutters, valley channels, and roof sheets lead to standing water and leaks. Cleaning removes these obstructions, allowing the roof to function as designed. A free-flowing roof drainage system is essential for long-term waterproofing and preventing internal water ingress.
✔ Enhance Your Building’s Appearance
A clean, bright roof instantly improves the visual impression of your building. Mustard lichen causes heavy yellow staining that makes even relatively new roofs look aged and neglected. Cleaning restores a uniform, professional appearance.
✔ Prepare for Overcladding, Repairs, or Solar Installation
Many upgrade works—such as installing solar panels, carrying out fixings replacements, or preparing a roof for overcladding—require a clean, stable substrate. Removing lichen and debris provides a sound surface, ensures proper adhesion of new components, and improves safety for installation teams.
The Problem With Mustard Lichen
Mustard lichen has become increasingly common on industrial roofs across the UK. It is extremely resilient and often impossible to remove with standard pressure washing. If left untreated, it can:
Damage protective roof coatings
Accelerate oxidation and corrosion on metal sheets
Trap moisture and create long-term damp issues
Cause discolouration and staining
Reduce the reflective performance of lighter-coloured roof sheets
Shorten the overall lifespan of the roof system
Our specialised steam-cleaning process uses controlled temperatures and low-pressure application to lift lichen safely and effectively without harming the roof surface.
Minimal Disruption to Your Operations
All work is carried out externally, with no need to access internal spaces. This means:
No downtime for your staff
No risk to stock, machinery, or sensitive equipment
No internal mess or noise
Safe, controlled cleaning performed from the outside
Your business can continue operating as normal while we restore your roof.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
Where required, we use environmentally-responsible biocides to prevent regrowth after cleaning. These treatments are safe, long-lasting, and help keep mustard lichen at bay for years to come.
