UPVC CLADDING CLEANING, GRAFFITI REMOVAL & BRICK CLEANING
Gwent Shopping Centre - Tredegar, NP22
Client's Challenge
Gwent Shopping Centre required a full exterior and public mall facelift to improve overall presentation for customers, retailers, and visitors.
The centre’s white UPVC cladding had developed heavy traffic film build-up alongside visible mould and algae growth, significantly affecting the appearance of the building. In addition, graffiti on brickwork within an underpass area had become a recurring visual issue in a key public access
route.
Drainage maintenance was also required to help maintain safe, clean public areas and reduce the risk of water build-up and blockages within the shopping centre environment.
The client required a controlled, surface-safe cleaning solution that could be delivered in a live retail environment without disrupting trading activity or compromising public safety.
Assessment & Planning
APT ICC carried out a detailed one-hour site assessment to identify:
• Heavily contaminated UPVC cladding areas affected by traffic film and algae
• Mould and organic growth across public-facing elevations
• Graffiti contamination on brickwork within the underpass
• Drainage issues affecting site cleanliness and safety
• Suitable cleaning methods that would not damage sensitive UPVC or masonry surfaces
Product trials were completed in each treatment area to confirm the correct chemical selection and application method. This ensured maximum cleaning effectiveness while protecting surfaces and minimising impact on nearby public areas.
Methodology
1. Trial cleaning and surface testing Initial test areas were completed to confirm the most suitable method and chemical for each surface type.
2. UPVC cladding cleaning
Biodegradable degreasing solutions were applied to break down traffic film, mould, and organic growth, supported by controlled agitation.
3. Controlled pressure washing and rinsing
Surfaces were rinsed using carefully controlled pressure washing to restore appearance without damaging UPVC or surrounding finishes.
4. Graffiti removal from brickwork
Specialist graffiti removal gel was applied to brick surfaces, allowing appropriate dwell time before removal.
5. Ghosting reduction where required
Additional treatment was applied to reduce or remove shadowing following graffiti removal.
6. Brick and underpass cleaning
The underpass area was cleaned to improve visual presentation and customer experience.
7. Drain maintenance and clearing
Drains were cleared of debris to reduce blockages and support ongoing site cleanliness.
Site Access & Logistics
Equipment
• Professional pressure washing equipment for controlled exterior cleaning
• Surface-appropriate agitation tools for UPVC cladding and brickwork
• Drain clearing tools for debris removal
Chemicals
• UltraClean MB – used for UPVC cladding cleaning
• Algae Free – used for algae and organic growth treatment
• Graffiti Removal Gel – specialist formulation for masonry and
brickwork
• Ghost Buster (where required) – used to reduce or remove graffiti shadowing
The Results
• UPVC cladding restored to a brighter, cleaner appearance
• Traffic film, mould, and algae contamination successfully removed
• Graffiti removed from brick underpass areas
• Improved overall presentation of public-facing spaces
• Drainage issues addressed to support a safer environment
The works delivered a clear visual improvement across the shopping centre exterior, supporting a more welcoming and professional environment for customers and retailers.
