Burwalls Lodge,
Leigh Woods
Specialist heritage cleaning at a Grade II listed property using low-impact conservation-approved cleaning methods.
Overview
Located beside the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, Burwalls Lodge sits within the grounds of the Grade II listed Burwalls House — a Victorian Jacobethan mansion originally built in 1872.
Bristol Exterior Cleaning was appointed to carry out a full exterior clean to the property, including the roof, brickwork, natural stone, patios and walkways, using specialist low-impact methods suitable for historic buildings.
Due to the listed status of the property, all works were carefully planned and completed in collaboration with the Conservation Officer, following the submission of detailed cleaning methods tailored specifically to the building.
The Challenge
Cleaning historic properties requires an entirely different approach to standard exterior cleaning.
The roof and external surfaces had accumulated years of moss, algae and environmental staining, however the age and listed status of the building meant that aggressive cleaning methods could not be used.
Key considerations included:
Protecting the original roof tiles and historic masonry
Avoiding damage to delicate stone and brickwork
Using conservation-approved cleaning methods
Delivering long-term results without harsh pressure washing
Every stage of the project had to prioritise preservation of the building’s original character and materials
Delicate Roof Cleaning & Softwashing
The roof cleaning process was carried out using extremely gentle methods designed specifically for heritage properties.
Moss and debris were carefully removed by hand using soft brushes before the roof received a specialist softwash treatment and long-term biocide application.
No pressure washing was used at any stage.
This approach allows the roof to be cleaned gradually and safely over time, minimising risk to both the tiles and underlying materials while delivering a natural, long-lasting result.
Working Alongside Conservation Officers
As part of the project, Bristol Exterior Cleaning worked directly with the Conservation Officer to ensure all proposed methods were suitable for the building and aligned with conservation best practices.
Detailed method statements were provided prior to works commencing, outlining the specialist low-impact approach that would be used throughout the project.
Our experience working on listed and heritage properties across the South West allows us to confidently deliver sensitive cleaning works while respecting the history and character of each building.
The Result
The completed project transformed the appearance of the property while maintaining the integrity and character of this important historic building.
The gentle restoration methods used throughout the project delivered a clean, refreshed finish across the roof, stonework, patios and walkways — all while ensuring the building remained fully protected throughout the process.
Following the success of the initial works, Bristol Exterior Cleaning has since been booked to return to complete additional brickwork and stone cleaning at the property.As part of the project, Bristol Exterior Cleaning worked directly with the Conservation Officer to ensure all proposed methods were suitable for the building and aligned with conservation best practices.
Detailed method statements were provided prior to works commencing, outlining the specialist low-impact approach that would be used throughout the project.
Our experience working on listed and heritage properties across the South West allows us to confidently deliver sensitive cleaning works while respecting the history and character of each building.
Client Feedback
After finding Bristol Exterior Cleaning through a Google search for a reputable heritage cleaning specialist, the client engaged us during discussions with the Conservation and Heritage Team at North Somerset Council.
Following detailed communication outlining the proposed methods and conservation-led approach, the client felt completely confident in our ability to carry out the works safely and appropriately on such an important historic property.
The client later mentioned to us how pleased they were with the overall experience, particularly the professionalism of the team on site, the clear communication throughout the project, and the care taken while working around the property. They also commented on how polite, friendly, respectful and tidy the operatives were during every stage of the works.