Honouring History Through Specialist Care
At Softwash Scotland, we’re privileged to help preserve Scotland’s most iconic buildings — homes and landmarks that carry both architectural and historical significance.
Our recent project took us to “Uplands,” an exceptional Arts and Crafts, Edwardian home in Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire. Designed by the renowned Glasgow architect William Leiper in 1907, this B-listed sandstone mansion is often regarded as one of his finest residential works.
Over the decades, Uplands has lived many lives: first as a training house for butlers, chambermaids, and house staff serving estates around the world, then as a recovery home for injured soldiers during World War I, before becoming the private family home it remains today.
A Delicate Cleaning Challenge
The owners, who have lovingly restored the property inside and out, entrusted Softwash Scotland with the careful cleaning of its roof, stonework, and exterior features. Our goal was to restore the building’s appearance while respecting its heritage fabric — removing carbon deposits, moss, and atmospheric staining without causing any damage to the original materials.
The work included:
Roof Cleaning – Restoring the Original Rosemary Tiles
The rosemary tiled roof of Uplands had accumulated organic growth and surface staining over time. Using our DOFF steam cleaning system, we gently lifted moss, lichen, and dirt from the tiles without high pressure or abrasive methods.
The low-pressure steam not only removed surface growth but also revealed the warm natural colour of the clay tiles. The roof’s distinctive Edwardian texture was preserved, enhancing both its beauty and longevity.
Chimney Stacks and Chimney Pots – Precision Steam Cleaning
The property’s stone chimney stacks and decorative chimney pots are defining features of its silhouette. These areas had darkened over the years from smoke residues and weathering.
We used the DOFF system again here — carefully targeting the crevices and ornate details to lift carbon staining and biological deposits. The result was a cleaner, brighter finish that respected the original craftsmanship and ensured the chimneys remained structurally sound and visually consistent with the roofline.
Sandstone Walls – Removing Carbon and Environmental Staining
The sandstone facade is the heart of Uplands’ visual identity. Like many historic Scottish buildings, it had developed dark carbon deposits and organic growth due to decades of exposure to the elements.
We carried out a carbon removal treatment using gentle DOFF steam cleaning, allowing the stone to breathe while preserving its patina. This revealed the natural honey-coloured tone of the sandstone, restoring depth and warmth to the walls without stripping their character.
To protect the stonework, we later returned to apply a biocide treatment, which helps prevent regrowth and keeps the exterior clean for years to come.
Garden and Boundary Walls – Uniting the Property’s Aesthetic
The grandeur of Uplands extends beyond its main structure. Its garden walls, boundary walls, entrance gates, and garden staircases were also showing signs of weathering and biological growth.
We cleaned each element with the same professional approach — removing moss, dirt, and staining from the sandstone gate pillars and garden steps, and brightening the surrounding stonework. This not only improved the property’s appearance but also unified the look of the entire estate.
A Heritage Project Done Right
Cleaning a property like Uplands requires more than equipment — it demands understanding, patience, and respect for traditional materials. Our DOFF steam cleaning process was specifically chosen because it’s approved for use on heritage and listed buildings by conservation bodies across the UK.
This ensures that surfaces are cleaned gently, without etching, scarring, or altering the stone’s surface — an essential consideration for B-listed properties such as Uplands.
The Final Results
After the cleaning, Uplands regained its natural charm – clean, bright, and full of its original character. Its sandstone once again glows in natural tones, and its roof and chimneys are restored to their original beauty.
The owners were delighted with the transformation, as all work was completed with zero damage to the structure and full respect for its heritage. When we revisited to apply the biocide treatment later, the property still looked exceptional — a testament to both the cleaning process and the ongoing care of its custodians.
Protecting Scotland’s Architectural Heritage
This project reflects what we do best at Softwash Scotland — combining modern cleaning technology with a deep understanding of traditional materials and heritage preservation.
Whether it’s a historic estate, listed property, or modern family home, we deliver cleaning solutions that protect the building’s integrity and restore its natural beauty.
Contact Softwash Scotland today to learn more about our specialist cleaning services for sandstone, heritage buildings, and roofs across Scotland.
