Brightening Up a 1970s Coastal Apartment Block

At Softwash Scotland, we take pride in bringing tired exteriors back to life — even when the Scottish weather does its best to get in the way.

Our team recently completed an exterior cleaning project at Abbey Court in North Berwick, a 50-year-old apartment complex built around the 1970s. Over time, the building’s roughcast render had developed black and red algae, along with several rust stains from central heating overflow pipes.

The goal was simple: restore the building’s appearance, remove biological growth, and brighten the roughcast safely and effectively — all while working around the unpredictable winter weather of the east coast.

Working Through the Scottish Weather

North Berwick’s coastal climate can be unforgiving, and this project was no exception. Temperatures fluctuated between –6°C and 10°C, and on one day, winds reached over 60 mph — conditions that made exterior cleaning impossible for safety reasons.

Rather than rush or compromise the quality of our work, we paused operations during the high winds and resumed only when conditions were safe and stable. This careful planning ensured the best results for both the property and our team.

Step 1: Removing Central Heating Rust Stains

We began by tackling the rust stains caused by overflow pipes from the central heating system — a common issue on older buildings. These streaks can be stubborn, especially when they’ve weathered into the render over many years.

Using specialist rust removal treatments, we carefully lifted the staining from the roughcast without damaging the surface texture. This created a clean base for the softwash treatment to follow.

Step 2: Softwash Cleaning for Algae and Grime Removal

With the rust stains gone, we applied our Softwash cleaning solution — a low-pressure, biodegradable cleaning system designed specifically for delicate surfaces like roughcast.

This treatment targeted the black and red algae that had built up across the walls, as well as years of general grime and weathering. The softwash process gently cleanses the surface, restoring its brightness without abrasion or risk of damage.

Once we were satisfied that all organic growth and staining had been removed, the walls already looked significantly fresher and brighter.

Step 3: AlgoClear Pro – Long-Term Protection

To prolong the clean and help prevent algae regrowth, we finished by applying AlgoClear Pro, a professional-grade treatment that continues to work with rainfall over time.

As rainwater naturally runs down the surface, the treatment reactivates, helping to keep the render clean throughout the coming winter months — ideal for Scotland’s damp coastal climate.

Step 4: Window and Frame Cleaning

To complete the project, we cleaned all windows and frames using pure water cleaning systems for a spotless, streak-free finish. This final touch enhanced the overall appearance of the building, ensuring the residents could enjoy a refreshed and brighter home environment.

A Fresh Look for Abbey Court

Despite the challenging weather, our team delivered a thorough and lasting clean that has restored Abbey Court’s exterior to a much brighter, more welcoming condition.

The roughcast render is now free from algae, staining, and rust marks — protected for the seasons ahead with AlgoClear Pro and ready to face another Scottish winter looking its best.

Work With Scotland’s Exterior Cleaning Specialists

Whether it’s a residential complex, heritage property, or modern building, Softwash Scotland delivers safe, effective, and environmentally responsible exterior cleaning solutions.

From roughcast and render cleaning to roof, stone, and cladding restoration, we have the experience and specialist products to keep your property looking great all year round.

Contact us today to learn more about our exterior cleaning services across Scotland.