Algae and moss thrive on damp, shaded surfaces commonly found across commercial sites, including walkways, roofs, access routes and hardstanding. While often viewed as a cosmetic issue, unchecked biological growth significantly increases slip risk and accelerates surface deterioration.
For property owners and facilities managers, this presents a dual concern: increased liability for slips and falls, and premature degradation of roofing materials, paving and external finishes. Left untreated, algae and moss retain moisture against surfaces, contributing to frost damage, joint failure and long-term repair costs.
Aggressive cleaning methods are one of the most common causes of damage to surfaces affected by algae and moss. High-pressure washing carried out without surface knowledge can strip protective finishes, dislodge joints, damage membranes and spread spores rather than remove them.
We frequently assess sites where previous cleaning has resulted in etched paving, loosened roof tiles or rapid regrowth due to spores being forced deeper into porous materials. In these cases, what should have been routine maintenance becomes an avoidable repair or replacement issue.
Professional algae and moss removal requires controlled pressure, appropriate biocidal treatments and correct dwell times to fully neutralise growth while preserving the integrity of the underlying surface.
Our algae and moss removal service is designed for commercial environments where safety, access management and surface protection are critical. We work across a wide range of external surfaces, including roofs, paved areas, access routes, stairways and perimeter paths. We regularly treat algae growth on masonry as part of our brick and render cleaning services for commercial buildings
Each site is assessed to determine surface type, growth severity and environmental exposure before treatment begins. This ensures the most appropriate method is selected, whether that involves low-pressure cleaning, specialist biocidal treatments or controlled rinsing to prevent damage and regrowth.
This approach allows algae and moss to be removed effectively while extending the service life of the surface beneath.
Our algae and moss removal service forms part of our wider commercial exterior cleaning services, supporting long-term asset protection across managed sites.
Effective algae and moss removal relies on more than surface cleaning alone. Our process focuses on neutralising biological growth at its source, not simply improving appearance.
Treatments are applied at controlled pressures and left to dwell for the appropriate period to ensure spores are fully neutralised. Where required, surfaces are gently rinsed to remove residues without disturbing joints, membranes or protective coatings. This delivers longer-lasting results and reduces the likelihood of rapid regrowth.
Algae and moss removal is regularly carried out across:
Industrial units and warehouse facilities
Office parks and corporate estates
Retail and leisure developments
Education and healthcare sites
Residential complexes and managed estates
Local authority and public-sector properties
Many areas affected by algae and moss are located at height or in active environments. We select the most appropriate access method for each site, including water-fed pole systems, mobile elevated work platforms or specialist high-level access equipment.
All work is carried out in line with current health and safety requirements, with risk assessments and method statements provided where required. This ensures algae and moss removal is completed safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption to occupants or operations.
Cavalry Cleaning delivers commercial algae and moss removal services across multiple UK regions, supporting both single-site properties and multi-location portfolios.
Routine algae and moss removal is a preventative maintenance measure that protects surfaces, improves safety and reduces long-term repair costs. Whether your site requires targeted treatment or inclusion within a planned exterior maintenance programme, we provide a controlled, commercially focused solution.
For higher-risk sites, algae and moss removal is often scheduled as part of a planned exterior maintenance programme.
