Frequently Asked Questions

Everything councils, housing providers and businesses ask us about graffiti removal, coatings and cleaning across Manchester & the North West — answered in detail.

About No Graffiti & Getting Started

Who are No Graffiti and what do you do?
No Graffiti Ltd is a specialist graffiti-removal and exterior-cleaning company working across Manchester, Greater Manchester and the North West. We remove graffiti from almost any surface, apply protective anti-graffiti coatings, and keep the public realm clean with pressure washing, chewing-gum removal, playground cleaning and street-furniture cleaning. Our clients include councils, housing associations, schools, facilities managers, retailers and commercial landlords, as well as private property owners. We work as fully insured, trained and accredited teams — holding CHAS accreditation — so public-sector and commercial customers can bring us on with confidence. With over 20 years' experience and thousands of completed jobs, our focus is simple: match the right method to each surface so graffiti and grime are removed cleanly, without damaging what's underneath. Whether you need a one-off tag removed or a planned maintenance programme covering a whole estate or town centre, you can get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
What areas do you cover?
We cover Manchester and the whole of Greater Manchester — including Salford, Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale, Bury, Bolton and Trafford — plus Cheshire East towns such as Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Congleton, Knutsford and Poynton. Our vehicles are based in Cheshire, which keeps us well placed to reach jobs right across the region quickly. You can see the full list on our areas we cover page. Because we're a local, North West-focused business rather than a national chain, we know the area well — from city-centre retail frontages to canal-side walls and residential estates — and we can usually reach urgent jobs the same or next working day. If your site sits just outside the towns listed, it's still worth asking: we regularly take on work in surrounding areas including parts of Warrington, Wigan and Tameside. Contact us with a location and we'll confirm straight away whether we can help.
How do I get a quote?
Getting a quote is quick and free. The easiest way is to send us a photo of the graffiti or the area that needs cleaning, along with the location, either through our contact form or by phone on 0161 399 5247. A clear photo tells us a lot — the surface material, the type of paint or marker, the size of the affected area and how accessible it is — which is often enough for us to provide a price and a timescale without needing to visit. For larger sites, multi-location contracts or anything more complex, we're happy to carry out a free site survey first. Either way, there's no obligation and no charge for the quote itself. We'll give you a clear, itemised price with no hidden extras, so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins. If you need the job done urgently, tell us when you get in touch and we'll prioritise it.
How quickly can you start work?
For most jobs across Greater Manchester and Cheshire we can attend within one working day, and we offer a rapid response for urgent or offensive graffiti. Once you've sent us a photo and location and approved the quote, we'll book you in for the earliest suitable slot. Straightforward removals — a tag on a shutter, a wall or a bus shelter — can often be dealt with very quickly, while larger or more sensitive jobs (heritage surfaces, working at height, or coordinating access on an occupied site) may need a little scheduling. If timing is critical — for example graffiti that needs to be gone before a business opens or a public event — let us know and we'll do everything we can to work around it, including early-morning, evening or weekend visits. Our 24-hour response option is designed exactly for situations that can't wait.
Do you take on one-off jobs or only contracts?
Both. We're just as happy to remove a single tag from a private wall as we are to run an ongoing maintenance contract for a council or housing association. Many customers first call us for a one-off removal and then, once they've seen the results, move onto a planned programme to keep their sites consistently clean. A one-off call-out is ideal when graffiti appears unexpectedly or you have a specific area that needs attention. A planned maintenance contract suits sites that are targeted repeatedly, or organisations that manage many locations and want a predictable, reactive service with reporting they can share with stakeholders. There's no minimum commitment to get started — you can book a single job and decide later whether a regular arrangement would help. If you're not sure which is right for you, get in touch and we'll advise honestly based on how often your site tends to be affected.
What services do you offer besides graffiti removal?
Graffiti removal is our core service, but we look after the wider appearance of a property or public space too. Alongside graffiti removal we provide anti-graffiti coatings to prevent repeat vandalism, pressure washing for car parks, paving and building exteriors, chewing-gum removal for high streets and town centres, playground cleaning for schools and parks, and public space cleaning for bus shelters, benches, signage and street furniture. We also remove stickers and fly-posting and can clear moss, algae and general grime. Because a single team can handle all of this, one visit can often tackle several jobs at once — removing graffiti, clearing gum and washing down the surrounding area — which is more efficient and more cost-effective than bringing in separate contractors.

Quotes, Booking & Pricing

How much does graffiti removal cost?
Every job is different, so we price each one individually rather than quoting a flat rate — that way you only pay for what your specific site needs. The cost depends on things like the size of the affected area, the surface material, the type of paint or marker, how accessible the location is, and whether any protective coating or follow-up work is wanted afterwards. A single tag on an easily reached wall is a small job; a large piece across heritage stonework, or graffiti that requires working at height, takes more time and specialist equipment. The best way to get an accurate figure is to send us a photo and location for a free, no-obligation quote. We'll give you a clear, itemised price up front with no hidden extras. For sites that are targeted repeatedly, we'll also explain how an anti-graffiti coating or a planned maintenance arrangement can reduce your long-term costs.
What affects the price of a job?
Several factors shape the price, which is why we quote each job individually. The main ones are: the size of the graffiti or the area to be cleaned; the surface material (porous brick, render and stone can take more work than smooth metal or glass); the type of paint, ink or marker used and how long it's been there; and accessibility — ground-level work is quicker than anything needing ladders, towers or traffic management. The removal method also matters, as heritage or delicate surfaces may need gentler hot-water/steam systems or specialist poultices rather than straightforward washing. Finally, whether you want preventative work such as a protective coating, or an ongoing maintenance schedule, will affect the overall figure. We take all of this into account when we quote, and we'll always explain what's driving the price so there are no surprises. Send us a photo and we'll give you a clear breakdown for free.
Do you need to visit the site before quoting?
Usually not for straightforward jobs. A clear photo of the graffiti or the area, together with the location, is often all we need to provide an accurate price and timescale — it shows us the surface, the type of marking and the scale of the work. This means we can turn most quotes around quickly without you having to wait for a site visit. For larger or more complex projects — multi-site contracts, heritage buildings, work at height, or anything where access needs assessing — we're happy to carry out a free site survey so the quote is exact and everyone is clear on the scope before work starts. There's never a charge for a survey or a quote. If you'd like us to take a look in person, just say so when you get in touch and we'll arrange a convenient time.
Do you charge for quotes or call-outs?
No. Quotes are completely free and come with no obligation, whether we price the job from a photo or carry out a site survey in person. We believe you should be able to understand exactly what a job will involve and cost before you commit to anything. When we quote, we give you a clear, itemised price with no hidden call-out fees or surprise extras added later. If you decide to go ahead, the price we agree is the price you pay, barring any change in scope that you approve in advance. And if you'd simply like advice — for example whether a repeatedly targeted wall would benefit from a protective coating rather than repeated cleaning — we're glad to share that at no cost too. The simplest way to start is to send a photo and location for your free quote.
How does payment work?
We keep payment straightforward and professional. For one-off jobs we'll agree the price with you before we start, carry out the work, and invoice on completion. For councils, housing associations, contractors and commercial clients we're set up to work on standard business payment terms and can fit in with your purchase-order and invoicing processes — useful when work needs signing off internally. For planned maintenance contracts covering multiple sites or regular rounds, we'll agree a clear schedule and billing arrangement that suits your organisation. Because we provide an itemised quote up front, you always know the cost before committing, and our invoices match what was agreed. If your organisation has specific requirements around documentation, proof of accreditation or RAMS before raising a purchase order, let us know and we'll provide everything you need. Get in touch to discuss the arrangement that works best for you.
Can you work out of hours or at weekends?
Yes. We understand that the best time to clean a busy high street, a shopping frontage or a school isn't always during normal working hours, so we regularly carry out work early in the morning, in the evening or at weekends to avoid disruption. For retailers and commercial sites, this means graffiti can be gone before you open and customers are none the wiser. For town centres and transport hubs, early-morning gum removal and cleaning keeps us out of the way of pedestrians and trade. For schools, we can schedule around term times, closures and quiet periods. Out-of-hours work is also part of how our rapid response operates for urgent or offensive graffiti that can't wait for the next scheduled visit. Just tell us your preferred timing when you request a quote and we'll build the job around it wherever possible.

Response Times & Emergencies

How quickly can you remove graffiti?
We offer a rapid response across Greater Manchester and the North West, and many jobs are attended within one working day of you approving the quote. The exact timescale depends on the type of job and how urgent it is: a straightforward tag on an accessible surface can usually be dealt with very quickly, while larger pieces, heritage surfaces or work requiring access equipment may need a little scheduling. Speed matters with graffiti — fresh paint is far easier to remove than paint that's been baked on by sun and rain for weeks, and prompt removal discourages further tagging, because a site that's cleaned quickly signals it's being looked after. If your graffiti is urgent, or offensive, tell us when you get in touch and we'll push it to the front of the queue. Our 24-hour response option exists for exactly these situations.
Do you offer a same-day or emergency service?
Yes. For urgent situations we operate a rapid, 24-hour response and will do everything we can to attend the same or next working day. Emergencies typically include offensive or abusive graffiti, graffiti on a school or sensitive site, or vandalism that needs clearing before a business opens, a public event, or an inspection. When you contact us, flag that it's urgent and send a photo and location — that lets us assess the job immediately and mobilise the right team and equipment without delay. While we can't promise a specific arrival time for every situation, urgent and offensive jobs are always prioritised over routine work. If you manage multiple sites and anticipate needing this kind of reactive cover regularly, a planned maintenance arrangement can include agreed response times, so you have the reassurance of a service level in place before you ever need to call.
How do you handle offensive or racist graffiti?
Offensive graffiti — anything racist, abusive, threatening or otherwise distressing — is always treated as a priority. We know that for a council, a school, a housing association or a business, this kind of vandalism can't sit on a wall waiting for the next maintenance round: it makes people feel unsafe and, for public bodies, there's often a duty to act promptly. When you report offensive graffiti to us, tell us that's what it is and we'll prioritise it for rapid response, aiming to attend the same or next working day wherever possible. We remove it discreetly and completely, matching the method to the surface so nothing is left ghosting behind. We can also confirm completion for your records or reporting. If the graffiti is on public property or you're unsure who's responsible for it, get in touch anyway and we'll advise on the best way forward.
Do you work weekends and bank holidays?
Yes, we can. While most routine work is scheduled during the week, we regularly carry out jobs at weekends and outside normal hours where it suits the customer or the site — for example cleaning a high street before Saturday trade, or removing graffiti from a commercial frontage before Monday opening. For urgent and offensive graffiti, our rapid response isn't limited to weekdays: we aim to attend as quickly as possible whatever the day. Weekend and out-of-hours availability can depend on the nature of the job and advance notice, so it's always best to let us know your timing needs when you request a quote. For organisations that want guaranteed reactive cover, a planned maintenance contract can build in agreed response arrangements including weekends, giving you certainty rather than having to arrange it case by case.
How do I report graffiti or book a job?
The quickest way is to send us a photo and the location — either through our contact form or by calling 0161 399 5247. A clear photo lets us see the surface, the type of paint or marker and the size of the area, so we can give you a price and a timescale without delay. Tell us if the job is urgent or the graffiti is offensive, and we'll prioritise it. If you manage several sites, we can set up a simple reporting arrangement so your team can flag issues to us and we'll respond, with completion recorded for your records. There's no obligation in getting in touch — even if you just want advice on whether a wall would benefit from a protective coating rather than repeated cleaning, we're happy to help. Once you're happy with the quote, we'll book the work in for the earliest suitable slot.

Graffiti Removal — Methods & Surfaces

How do you actually remove graffiti?
There's no single "best" way to remove graffiti — the right method depends entirely on what the graffiti is made of and the surface it's on, which is why we carry a full range of professional systems and choose between them on site. Our methods include hot-water and steam systems (such as DOFF and ThermaTech) that lift paint using heat and gentle, low pressure; specialist chemical removers and poultices that dissolve stubborn paints and draw staining back out of porous materials; chemical-free techniques for sensitive locations; and controlled pressure washing at the correct pressure for the surface. We always assess the material first, then match the technique to it, so the graffiti is removed thoroughly without damaging the brick, stone, render, glass or metal beneath. Forcing every job through the same machine is how surfaces get harmed — our approach is the opposite, and it's why the finished result looks clean rather than scrubbed. Learn more on our graffiti removal page.
Will removal damage the surface underneath?
No — not when it's done correctly. The key is assessing the surface before touching it and choosing a method suited to that specific material. Porous surfaces like brick, render and natural stone need a careful approach, often a hot-water or steam system or a poultice, rather than high pressure that could pit or erode them. Smoother surfaces such as glass, metal shutters and signage can tolerate different techniques. Delicate, painted or heritage surfaces need the gentlest methods of all. Because we match the method to the material every time, the graffiti is lifted while the surface beneath is left sound and undamaged, with no ghosting or shadowing. Damage almost always comes from using the wrong technique — too much pressure, the wrong chemical, or an inexperienced operator — which is exactly what our trained, accredited teams are there to avoid. If you're worried about a particularly delicate or valuable surface, tell us and we'll explain how we'll protect it.
Can you remove graffiti from brick?
Yes — brick is one of the most common surfaces we work on, and also one that rewards a careful approach. Brick is porous, so spray paint soaks into the surface and simple pressure washing on its own often just drives the pigment deeper or leaves a faded "ghost" behind. We use a combination of hot-water and steam systems and specialist removers or poultices that draw the paint back out of the pores, lifting it cleanly without eroding the brick face or the mortar joints. The right method depends on the type of brick, the paint used and how long it's been there — older, softer or heritage brick needs gentler treatment than modern engineering brick. The sooner graffiti is tackled the better the result, as fresh paint hasn't fully penetrated. For walls that are targeted repeatedly, we can follow removal with an anti-graffiti coating so future tags wash straight off.
Can you remove graffiti from render?
Yes, and render is a surface that really benefits from experience. Rendered walls are porous and often painted, so they hold onto spray paint and can be damaged by an over-aggressive approach — too much pressure can blow the render or strip its finish, and the wrong chemical can leave a patch. We use gentler hot-water and steam systems and carefully selected removers that lift the graffiti while protecting the render and its colour. In some cases, particularly where paint has deeply penetrated a textured or coloured render, a faint shadow can remain after the first pass; we'll always advise honestly on what result is realistically achievable and how to get the surface looking its best. For rendered surfaces that are repeatedly targeted, a protective coating is often the smart long-term move, because it means any future graffiti can be removed easily without repeatedly working the render itself.
Can you remove graffiti from natural stone, heritage or listed surfaces?
Yes — and this is precisely where a specialist matters most. Natural stone and heritage masonry are porous, valuable and often protected, so they can't be blasted clean without risking permanent damage or falling foul of conservation requirements. We use the gentlest effective methods, typically low-pressure hot-water and steam systems (such as DOFF and ThermaTech) and specialist poultices that draw graffiti out of the stone without eroding the surface or its patina. Every heritage job starts with careful assessment of the stone type and condition, and we're mindful of the need to work sympathetically on listed and historic buildings. Because deeply penetrated staining on porous stone can occasionally leave a faint mark, we'll be upfront about the likely result before we start. If your building is listed, it's worth checking whether any consents apply to the work — we're happy to discuss the approach so everything is done properly and the fabric of the building is protected.
Can you remove graffiti from concrete?
Yes. Concrete is common on car parks, subways, retaining walls, bridges and street furniture, and like brick and stone it's porous, so spray paint keys into the surface and needs more than a quick wash to remove properly. We use hot-water and steam systems together with appropriate removers to lift the paint out of the surface, at a pressure matched to the concrete so it's cleaned without being pitted or scarred. Aged or weathered concrete can hold staining stubbornly, and in some cases a faint ghost of heavily penetrated paint may remain after cleaning — we'll always tell you what to expect. Concrete surfaces in exposed public locations are frequently targeted again, so they're often good candidates for an anti-graffiti coating, which makes every future clean quicker and cheaper. We also handle concrete cleaning as part of wider pressure washing work.
Can you remove graffiti from glass, signage, metal shutters and uPVC?
Yes — these smoother, non-porous surfaces are common targets and generally respond well, though each needs the right touch. On glass, tags and etching-style damage are handled with appropriate methods that clean the surface without scratching it. Metal shutters, cladding and railings can usually be cleaned effectively and, because they're so often repeatedly tagged, are ideal candidates for a protective coating so future graffiti simply wipes off. Painted signage and uPVC need a gentler approach — the wrong chemical or too much abrasion can dull or mark them — so we select methods that remove the graffiti while preserving the finish and colour underneath. We also remove stickers, fly-posters and adhesive residue from signage, poles and street furniture as part of our public space cleaning. Whatever the surface, we assess it first and match the method to it, so the result is clean and undamaged.
What is 'ghosting' and can you remove it?
"Ghosting" is the faint shadow or outline that can remain after graffiti has been removed, especially on porous surfaces like brick, render, concrete and stone. It happens because spray paint pigment soaks into the surface, so even once the bulk of the paint is lifted, a trace can stay behind in the pores — and it's more likely when graffiti has been left for a long time or removed poorly with the wrong technique. The good news is that ghosting can usually be reduced or eliminated with the right specialist treatment: hot-water and steam systems and poultices that draw the residual pigment out of the surface, rather than just cleaning the top. Removing graffiti promptly is the best way to avoid ghosting in the first place. If a previous clean has left a shadow on your wall, send us a photo — we can often improve or fully resolve it, and we'll tell you honestly what result is achievable.
Can I remove graffiti myself?
You can attempt small, fresh tags yourself, but it's easy to make things worse — which is why so many people call a specialist. The most common DIY mistakes are using a domestic pressure washer at too high a pressure (which can pit brick, blow render or drive pigment deeper), reaching for harsh over-the-counter chemicals that stain or bleach the surface, or painting over graffiti, which rarely matches and often looks worse. Porous surfaces like brick, render, stone and concrete are especially unforgiving, and offensive or large graffiti really shouldn't wait for trial and error. Professional removal matches the method to the material — hot-water and steam systems, specialist removers, or chemical-free techniques — so the graffiti goes without leaving damage or ghosting. It's also faster, safer (particularly at height), and, for repeatedly targeted sites, we can add a protective coating so you're not fighting the same battle again. If in doubt, send us a photo before you try anything and we'll advise.

Anti-Graffiti Coatings & Prevention

How do anti-graffiti coatings work?
An anti-graffiti coating forms a protective barrier between your surface and anything sprayed or drawn on top of it. Instead of soaking into porous brick, render or stone, the paint, ink or marker sits on the coating — so when it's cleaned off, it lifts away easily and leaves no shadow behind. On a coated surface, future graffiti can often be removed with nothing more than water and low pressure, rather than the specialist chemicals, heat or equipment an unprotected surface would need. This dramatically cuts the cost and time of every future clean, and keeps response times fast. There are two broad types — sacrificial and permanent — and we match the product to the surface and how often it's targeted. Coatings work best applied to the walls, shutters and street furniture most likely to be hit. You can read more on our anti-graffiti coatings page, or send us details of your site for advice on the right option.
What's the difference between sacrificial and permanent coatings?
The two types work in different ways and suit different situations. A sacrificial coating is a protective layer that comes away together with the graffiti when the surface is cleaned, and is then re-applied ready for next time — think of it as a shield that's renewed after each use. It's ideal for surfaces that are hit again and again, and often a good fit for heritage and porous surfaces because it's breathable and non-permanent. A permanent (or semi-permanent) coating is a durable barrier that stays in place through repeated cleans, protecting the surface for years from a single application; future graffiti washes off without removing the coating itself. Permanent coatings suit smoother, robust surfaces like metal shutters and cladding. We'll recommend the right type based on the material, how often it's targeted and the look you want to keep — and in some cases a combination across a site makes the most sense.
How long does an anti-graffiti coating last?
It depends on the type of coating, the surface and how often it's cleaned. A permanent or semi-permanent coating can protect a surface for several years from a single application, standing up to repeated graffiti removal without needing to be redone. A sacrificial coating is designed to be removed along with the graffiti and then re-applied after each clean, so rather than having a fixed "lifespan" it's topped up as part of the ongoing maintenance of a repeatedly targeted surface. Weather exposure, the material underneath and how heavily the site is hit all influence how a coating performs over time. When we assess your site we'll recommend the option that gives the best value for how your surface is actually used, and for planned maintenance customers we simply build any re-application into the schedule. Either way, the aim is the same: make every future clean faster, cheaper and gentler on the surface.
Will a coating change how the surface looks?
Most modern anti-graffiti coatings are designed to be near-invisible, with little or no change to the appearance or finish of the surface. On many materials you simply wouldn't know a coating had been applied. That said, some coatings can very slightly alter the sheen or tone of certain surfaces, which is why matching the right product to the material matters — particularly on visible frontages, coloured render or heritage stonework where appearance is important. We take this into account when we recommend a coating, and for sensitive or high-profile surfaces we can advise on products chosen specifically to preserve the look. If you're concerned about the finish on a particular surface, we can discuss it before any work goes ahead, and in some cases test an inconspicuous area first. The goal is always protection without compromising how your building or wall looks.
When is an anti-graffiti coating worth the cost?
As a rule of thumb, if a surface is targeted more than once or twice a year, a coating usually pays for itself. The value shows up every time the wall is hit after it's been protected: instead of a specialist visit with chemicals or heat each time, a coated surface can often be wiped down quickly with plain water and low pressure. For a site that's tagged several times a year, that difference adds up fast — in labour, in materials, and in how long the building spends looking neglected. Coatings are especially worthwhile on persistent hotspots such as accessible walls, shutters, underpasses and street furniture. They're less essential for a surface that's only ever been marked once. When we quote, we'll give you an honest view on whether protection makes financial sense for your particular site, or whether straightforward removal is all you really need.
Can coatings be used on heritage or listed buildings?
Yes, but the choice of product is critical. Heritage and listed masonry needs to breathe, so a non-breathable permanent coating could trap moisture and cause harm over time. For these surfaces we use breathable, often sacrificial coatings specifically suited to porous and historic materials, which protect the surface without compromising it. Every heritage application starts with careful assessment of the stone or brick and its condition, and we work sympathetically to conservation good practice. If your building is listed, it's worth confirming whether any consents apply before protective treatments are carried out — we're happy to talk through the approach so the fabric of the building is looked after and everything is done properly. Protecting a repeatedly targeted heritage surface can save it from the wear of repeated removal, so the right coating is often a genuinely protective, conservation-minded choice rather than just a cost-saver.
How do I stop a wall being repeatedly tagged?
Some walls, shutters and underpasses get hit again and again no matter how quickly they're cleaned — and breaking that cycle usually takes a combination of measures rather than one fix. The most effective single step is an anti-graffiti coating, so every future tag washes straight off with water and low pressure instead of needing a full removal. Alongside that, speed matters: removing graffiti quickly, every time, removes the "reward" and discourages taggers, because a site that's consistently clean signals it's being watched. A planned maintenance arrangement combines the two — scheduled cleaning rounds plus rapid response — to keep a persistent problem area under control. Practical deterrents like lighting, planting or restricting access to a favoured wall can help too. If you've got a recurring hotspot, send us the details and we'll recommend the most cost-effective way to keep it clean for good.

Pressure Washing & Exterior Cleaning

What surfaces do you pressure wash?
We pressure wash a wide range of external hard surfaces and building exteriors for councils, facilities managers, landlords and commercial property owners. Common jobs include car parks, service yards and loading bays; paving, walkways, forecourts and precincts; building façades, brickwork, render and cladding; and steps, ramps and pedestrian areas. We lift years of ingrained dirt, traffic film, pollution staining, moss, algae and general grime, restoring a clean, professional appearance. The important part is that we match the pressure and technique to the material every time — a robust concrete yard can take more than an old paving slab or a soft render finish. Where high pressure would risk damage, we use a gentler soft-washing approach instead. Cleaning can be a one-off deep clean to reset years of build-up, or a scheduled programme that keeps surfaces consistently presentable. See our pressure washing page for more, or send us a photo for a free quote.
Do you clean commercial car parks and forecourts?
Yes — car parks, forecourts, service yards and paved areas are among the surfaces we clean most often for commercial and public-sector clients across the North West. Over time these areas collect oil and rubber film, moss, algae, weeds, gum and general grime that make a site look tired and can become slippery. We pressure wash them back to a clean, even finish, and we can work out of hours or in sections to avoid disrupting your operation, parking or trade. For large sites we'll agree an approach that keeps things running while we work. Regular cleaning not only improves appearance and first impressions but also helps with safety by clearing slip hazards from pedestrian routes, ramps and steps. We can carry this out as a one-off restorative clean or as part of a planned maintenance programme, often combined with graffiti removal and gum removal in the same visit.
Will pressure washing damage older paving or render?
Not when it's done correctly. High pressure isn't always the answer — blast an old paving slab, soft render or aged brick at full power and you can pit the surface, strip the finish or force water where it shouldn't go. The skill is in matching the technique to the material, which is exactly what our trained teams do. We assess the surface first and use the appropriate pressure, and where a surface is delicate or historic we switch to a gentler soft-washing method that relies on cleaning solution and low pressure rather than brute force. Where a robust concrete yard genuinely needs more power, we can turn it up. This surface-first approach means we achieve a thorough clean without leaving damage behind. If you're concerned about a particular area — a period property, decorative paving or coloured render — tell us and we'll explain how we'll protect it.
What is soft washing and when do you use it?
Soft washing is a gentler alternative to high-pressure cleaning that relies on appropriate cleaning solutions and low pressure to lift dirt, moss, algae and organic growth, rather than blasting it off. We use it wherever high pressure would risk harming the surface — on delicate or historic materials, soft or textured render, some roofs and cladding, and painted or coloured finishes where the priority is cleaning without altering the surface. It's particularly effective against biological growth like algae and lichen, because the treatment tackles the growth itself rather than just removing what's visible, which can keep surfaces cleaner for longer. Choosing between soft washing and pressure washing comes down to the material and its condition, and part of our job is making that call correctly on site. Often a single project uses both — higher pressure on robust paving, soft washing on the adjacent building — so the whole site is cleaned safely and to a consistent standard.
Can you remove moss and algae, and does it help with slips?
Yes, and this is one of the most worthwhile reasons to have hard surfaces cleaned regularly — especially in the North West's wet climate, where moss and algae take hold quickly. Beyond the tired appearance they give paving, walls and roofs, moss and algae make walkways, ramps and steps genuinely slippery, which is a real safety concern on commercial and public sites. Removing them clears that slip hazard as well as restoring the look of the surface, and it helps protect the material underneath, because standing growth traps moisture against it over time. We clear moss and algae as part of pressure washing and soft washing, choosing the method that suits each surface. For sites where growth returns seasonally, a scheduled clean keeps it under control so it never builds back up to a hazardous or unsightly level. It's a simple, cost-effective way to keep a property safe and well presented.

Chewing Gum Removal

How do you remove chewing gum from pavements?
Discarded chewing gum flattens and bonds to paving as it's trodden in, leaving dark, sticky marks that ordinary sweeping, street cleaning and standard washing simply won't shift. Scraping it off by hand is slow and can damage or mark the surface. We remove it properly using a specialist method that combines heat, gentle agitation and the right technique to lift the gum cleanly from the paving without harming the surface beneath. It's a chemical-free process, which matters in busy pedestrian areas and near food premises and shopfronts. The result is an even, clean finish across the whole area rather than a patchwork of treated spots. We clear built-up gum from town centres, high streets, retail frontages, transport hubs and precincts, and can work early in the morning to stay out of the way of shoppers and trade. See our chewing gum removal page or get in touch for a quote.
Does gum removal use harsh chemicals?
No — we use a chemical-free method to remove chewing gum, which is one of its biggest advantages in busy public spaces. Because high streets, shopping areas and transport hubs are full of pedestrians, and often close to food premises, avoiding harsh chemicals keeps the work safe for the public and leaves no residue on the paving. Our approach lifts the gum using heat, gentle agitation and technique rather than aggressive solvents, cleaning the surface without damaging it. This makes it well suited to the kinds of locations where gum is most of a problem, and to clients — councils, Business Improvement Districts, retail and facilities managers — who need cleaning that's effective but also considerate of the environment and the people using the space. If you have any specific requirements around the products used on your site, let us know and we'll confirm our approach before we start.
Do you remove gum for town centres, BIDs and retail areas?
Yes — chewing-gum removal is one of our most requested services for councils, Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), town-centre managers and retail locations across Greater Manchester and the North West. These are exactly the high-footfall places where gum builds up fastest and where clean paving makes the biggest difference to first impressions. We clear built-up gum across full frontages and pedestrianised areas rather than just spot-treating the worst patches, so the whole area looks cared for. We can work early mornings or out of hours to avoid disrupting shoppers and trade, and we're happy to coordinate with wider street-cleaning or town-centre management schedules. For busy locations, many clients put gum removal on a regular programme so the problem never builds back up. If you manage a high street, shopping area or retail park, get in touch and we'll recommend an approach and frequency to suit the footfall.
How often should high streets have gum removed?
It depends entirely on footfall. A quiet parade of shops might only need an occasional clean, while a busy city-centre high street can accumulate visible gum again within weeks. In the busiest locations, gum starts building up the day after it's cleared, which is why many councils, BIDs and retail managers put gum removal on a scheduled programme rather than treating it as a one-off — a regular round keeps the paving consistently presentable and stops the problem ever getting back to where it started. As a guide, high-footfall town centres often benefit from a periodic cycle through the year, while lower-traffic areas need less frequent attention. When we assess your location we'll recommend a frequency that keeps it looking its best without paying for more visits than you need. We can also combine gum removal with pressure washing and public space cleaning so one team keeps the whole area clean.

Playground & Play-Area Cleaning

Are your cleaning methods safe for children's play areas?
Yes — everything about how we clean a play area is chosen with children in mind. We use methods and products suitable for spaces that children use, and we clean safety surfacing in a way that lifts moss, algae and dirt without harming the surface or compromising how it performs. A playground is one of the few places where cleanliness is a safety issue as much as an appearance one, so we treat it accordingly. Our aim is a play area that is not only visibly cleaner and brighter but genuinely safer to use. We clean equipment, safety surfacing, paths, gates, fencing and seating, and remove any graffiti at the same time. We work regularly with schools, nurseries and council parks teams, and can schedule around term times, closures and quiet periods to keep disruption to a minimum. See our playground cleaning page for more detail, or get in touch to discuss your site.
Can you clean wet-pour and rubber safety surfaces?
Yes. Wet-pour, rubber tiles and bonded safety surfaces are exactly where moss and algae tend to build up, particularly in shaded and damp spots — and as that growth takes hold the surface becomes slippery, which undermines the very thing safety surfacing is meant to provide. We deep-clean these surfaces to lift the moss, algae and ingrained grime, restoring both their appearance and, importantly, their grip. We do this using methods matched to the surface so it's cleaned thoroughly without being damaged or degraded. Regular cleaning also helps the surfacing last longer, because organic growth and trapped dirt accelerate wear over time. For schools, nurseries and councils this is a simple, worthwhile part of maintaining a safe play environment, and it's often best scheduled seasonally — for example after winter, when growth is at its worst. We can clean the safety surfacing on its own or as part of a full play-area clean covering the equipment too.
Do you work with schools and nurseries?
Regularly. We clean playgrounds, play equipment, safety surfacing and outdoor areas for schools, nurseries and council parks teams across Greater Manchester and Cheshire, and we understand how these sites need to be handled. We can schedule work around term times, INSET days, holidays and closures so the space is clean and ready when the children return, and we're mindful of the safeguarding and access considerations that come with working on school sites — DBS-checked operatives are available where required. Because we also handle graffiti removal and wider grounds cleaning, a single visit can cover the playground, remove any graffiti and clean surrounding paths, seating and signage together, which is more efficient than arranging separate contractors. Whether you need a one-off clean before a new term or a regular programme through the year, we'll work around your calendar. Get in touch and we'll put together a plan that suits your school or setting.
Can you remove graffiti from play equipment?
Yes. Play equipment — frames, slides, swings, climbing structures and multi-play units — is sometimes targeted by graffiti, and because these are surfaces children touch and use, they need cleaning carefully and completely. We remove graffiti from play equipment using methods suited both to the material and to the fact that it's a children's environment, so the equipment is left clean and safe rather than coated in harsh residue. We can do this on its own as a quick reactive job, or as part of a fuller play-area clean that also tackles moss and algae on the equipment and safety surfacing, restoring bright, well-kept colours across the whole space. Offensive graffiti on a play area or school site is always prioritised for rapid response. If you spot graffiti on your playground, send us a photo and location and we'll advise on the quickest way to get it removed.

Public Space & Street Furniture Cleaning

What street furniture and public spaces do you clean?
We keep the wider public realm clean and cared for — the everyday things people use and pass every day. That includes bus shelters, benches, planters, bollards, railings and litter bins; signage, poles and wayfinding; and the public spaces around them such as squares, precincts, subways and walkways. We remove graffiti, stickers, fly-posters, gum, grime and general dirt, matching the method to each surface so glass, metal, painted frames and stonework are all cleaned safely. The quality of a town centre or an estate is judged in these small details, so bringing them all under one service — rather than sending a different contractor for each type of mess — keeps everything to a consistent standard in fewer visits. We deliver this for councils, facilities teams, town-centre managers and commercial clients, either as planned cleaning rounds or reactive response to reported issues. See our public space cleaning page or get in touch to discuss your area.
Do you remove stickers and fly-posting?
Yes. Stickers, fly-posters and the adhesive residue they leave behind are a common blight on signage, poles, street furniture, shutters and shopfronts, and they make an area look neglected just as much as graffiti does. We remove them properly — lifting the material and the sticky residue rather than half-peeling them or smearing the glue around — and we match the method to the surface so signage, painted frames and glass aren't damaged in the process. This is part of our public space cleaning service, and it's often done alongside graffiti removal and gum removal in the same visit, since these problems tend to cluster in the same busy locations. Whether it's a single flurry of fly-posting after an event or the ongoing build-up on a stretch of high street, we can clear it as a one-off or keep on top of it through a regular maintenance round. Send us a photo and we'll advise.
Do you offer planned cleaning rounds or reactive response?
Both — and many clients use a combination of the two. Planned cleaning rounds are scheduled visits that keep every piece of street furniture and public space to a consistent standard, week in and week out, so there are no tired corners letting the rest of an area down. Reactive response handles the things that can't wait for the next round — offensive graffiti, a sudden mess of fly-posting, or damage that needs sorting before the public are back through in numbers. For councils and facilities teams, having both in place means routine upkeep is predictable while genuine issues still get dealt with quickly. We can also provide simple reporting on completed work, which is useful evidence to share with councillors, residents or stakeholders who want to see the public realm being maintained. Tell us the area you manage and how it tends to be used, and we'll recommend the right balance of planned and reactive cover.
Can you keep a whole estate or town centre to a consistent standard?
Yes — for a council or a facilities team, the real challenge usually isn't cleaning one shelter or one wall, it's keeping an entire estate or town centre to the same standard consistently. That's exactly what our planned maintenance rounds are designed to do: regular, scheduled visits covering all the street furniture, signage and public spaces across your area, cleaned to a consistent finish so the whole place looks cared for rather than patchy. Because a single team handles graffiti, stickers, gum and general grime, we can maintain everything in one coordinated programme instead of juggling multiple contractors. We combine this with rapid response for anything urgent, and we can provide reporting so you have a clear record of what's been done and where. This kind of arrangement works well for boroughs, housing estates, retail parks and business districts. Get in touch with the scope of your area and we'll put together a programme and a clear price.

Insurance, Accreditations & Working With Us

Are you insured?
Yes — we are fully insured, which is essential for the kind of work we do and for the councils, housing associations, schools and commercial clients we work with. Public liability cover protects you and your property while we're on site, and it's one of the first things professional clients rightly ask about before appointing a contractor. We're happy to provide proof of our insurance on request, along with our accreditations and any other documentation your organisation needs before raising a purchase order or signing off work. Being properly insured is part of what separates a professional, accountable service from an unvetted one-off, and it gives you the reassurance that if anything unexpected happened, it's covered. If you have specific insurance requirements or thresholds your suppliers must meet, let us know and we'll confirm that we satisfy them before we start.
What accreditations do you hold?
We hold CHAS accreditation — the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme, and the assessment public-sector and commercial clients most often ask for. It demonstrates that our health, safety, insurance and competence credentials have been independently assessed and verified, which is exactly the assurance councils, housing associations and facilities managers need when choosing a contractor. We also carry full public liability and employers' liability insurance, and certificates can be supplied on request. Accreditation isn't just a badge — it reflects how we actually work: proper risk assessment, safe methods and trained operatives on every job. We can provide current certificates and supporting documentation whenever they're needed for procurement, tenders or supplier onboarding. Alongside these, we supply risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) for each site and can provide DBS-checked operatives where the setting requires it. If your organisation needs us listed on a particular supplier or approved-contractor system, get in touch and we'll help with whatever's required.
Do you provide RAMS / method statements?
Yes. We provide site-specific risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) for our work, setting out the hazards involved, how we control them, and exactly how the job will be carried out safely. For councils, housing associations, schools and commercial clients this is usually a requirement before work begins, and it's a standard part of how we operate rather than an optional extra. Because we assess each site and match our methods to it, the RAMS reflect the real conditions of your job — the surfaces, the access, any work at height, and the public or occupied environment around it. We're also happy to work within your own permit-to-work systems and site inductions where you have them. If you need RAMS in a particular format, or by a certain date for internal sign-off, just tell us when you request the work and we'll make sure the documentation is ready. It's all part of providing a professional, accountable service.
Are your operatives DBS-checked?
DBS-checked operatives are available where the setting requires it — for example on school and nursery sites, or other environments where safeguarding is a consideration. We understand that for schools, councils and certain public-sector locations, being able to demonstrate appropriate vetting is essential before a contractor can work on site, and we can accommodate that. If your site has specific requirements around DBS checks, site inductions, permits or safeguarding, let us know when you get in touch and we'll confirm what we can provide and make sure the right people and paperwork are in place before we start. This is part of the same professional approach that underpins our accreditations and insurance: matching not just our methods but our people and documentation to the needs of your particular site, so working with us is straightforward and fully accountable.
Do you work with councils and local authorities?
Yes — much of our work is for councils and local authorities across Greater Manchester and Cheshire, and it's an area we understand well. We provide both rapid response for urgent and offensive graffiti and planned maintenance programmes that keep whole boroughs, town centres and public spaces to a consistent standard. We're set up for the way public-sector clients need to work: full insurance, CHAS accreditation, site-specific RAMS, DBS-checked operatives where required, and reporting you can share with councillors, residents and stakeholders. We can prioritise offensive graffiti and record completion for your reporting, and we're used to fitting in with purchase-order and procurement processes. Whether you need reactive cover, scheduled rounds, or help tackling a persistent hotspot with anti-graffiti coatings, we can build a service around how your authority operates. See our councils & local authorities page, or get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Do you work on occupied housing estates?
Yes. We regularly work for housing associations and social landlords on occupied estates, where the work has to be done considerately with residents going about their day around us. We respond quickly to tenant reports of graffiti — including offensive graffiti, which we prioritise — and we work cleanly, safely and with minimal disruption to residents. For estates that are targeted repeatedly, we combine prompt removal with anti-graffiti coatings and, where useful, a planned maintenance round, to break the cycle of repeat vandalism rather than just cleaning up after it each time. We can provide the insurance, accreditations, RAMS and DBS-checked operatives that housing providers require, and reporting so you can evidence the service to residents and boards. See our housing associations page for more, or get in touch to talk through the needs of your estates.
Can you cover commercial and multi-site portfolios?
Yes. We work for retailers, commercial landlords, facilities managers and property companies, from single premises to portfolios spread across multiple locations. For commercial clients, appearance matters commercially — tagged frontages and shutters put customers off — so we offer rapid removal, often out of hours so graffiti is gone before you open, and protective coatings for shutters and walls that keep getting hit. For multi-site portfolios we can set up a coordinated arrangement with consistent standards, simple reporting and a single point of contact, so you're not managing a different contractor at every location. This works well for retail chains, managed estates, business parks and facilities-managed buildings. We bring the same insurance, accreditations and documentation that professional clients expect. See our commercial property & facilities page, or get in touch with the details of your sites and we'll propose an approach and a clear price.

Environmental & Safety

Do you offer chemical-free or eco-friendly removal?
Yes. We can remove graffiti using chemical-free methods, which is important in sensitive locations and for clients who want to minimise environmental impact. Much of our work uses hot-water and steam systems (such as DOFF and ThermaTech) that lift paint with heat and low pressure rather than harsh chemicals, and our chewing-gum removal is chemical-free too. Where a specialist remover genuinely gives the best result on a particular surface, we choose products carefully and use them responsibly. Being able to work chemical-free matters near watercourses, in busy pedestrian areas, close to food premises and around children's play areas, and it's part of how we keep the work safe for the public and the environment. If your site or organisation has specific environmental requirements — for example around the products used or protecting nearby planting or drainage — tell us when you get in touch and we'll confirm an approach that meets them before any work begins.
Can you work safely near canals, rivers and watercourses?
Yes — and this matters a great deal across the North West, with its extensive canal network and many rivers and waterways. Cleaning near water requires care, because run-off from harsh chemicals or contaminated water can pollute a watercourse. We use chemical-free removal methods that are safe to use close to canals, rivers and drainage, so graffiti on canal-side walls, bridges, towpaths and waterside structures can be removed without harming the water environment. We're mindful of the responsibilities that come with working near watercourses and take a considered, environmentally responsible approach to these locations. If your site sits beside water, or drains toward one, let us know when you request a quote — we'll confirm the method we'll use and how we'll protect the watercourse. It's exactly the kind of situation where using a specialist who understands the constraints, rather than a general cleaner, makes a real difference.
How do you handle run-off and waste water?
We work responsibly when it comes to the water and residue our cleaning produces, particularly on sensitive sites and anywhere near drains or watercourses. Using chemical-free methods wherever possible is the first line of protection, because it keeps run-off free of harsh chemicals. Beyond that, we take a considered approach to managing water and waste on site, matched to the location — being especially careful where run-off could reach a drain, a canal or a river. This is part of the same surface-first, site-specific way we work: assessing the conditions before we start and adapting our method accordingly, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. If your site has particular requirements around drainage, containment or waste — as some commercial and public-sector locations do — raise it with us when you get in touch and we'll set out how we'll handle it as part of the method statement for the job.
Is graffiti removal safe for the public and passers-by?
Yes — keeping the work safe for the public is central to how we operate, especially given how much of it happens in busy, open locations like high streets, estates, schools and transport hubs. We plan each job with a site-specific risk assessment and method statement, control the working area appropriately, and use methods chosen with the surrounding environment in mind, including chemical-free techniques in public and sensitive areas. Where work involves access equipment or is near pedestrians and traffic, we take the necessary precautions and can work at quieter times or out of hours to reduce the interaction with the public altogether. Our CHAS accreditation reflects independently assessed health and safety standards, and DBS-checked operatives are available where the setting requires. In short, we're set up to work safely in live public environments, which is exactly what councils, schools and town-centre managers need from a contractor.

Coverage & Areas

Where are you based?
We're based in Cheshire, which puts us right on the doorstep of Manchester, Greater Manchester and the wider North West. Because we're a local, regionally focused business rather than a national chain, our teams and vehicles are close to the areas we serve — which is a big part of why we can reach urgent and offensive graffiti so quickly, often the same or next working day. We operate as a service-area business, travelling out to our customers' sites across the region rather than working from a public premises. Being local also means we genuinely know the area, from city-centre retail frontages to canal-side walls, residential estates and Cheshire's market towns. If you'd like to know how quickly we can reach your particular location, just get in touch with the address and we'll let you know. You can also see the full spread of towns we cover on our areas we cover page.
Which towns and areas do you cover?
We cover Manchester and the whole of Greater Manchester — including Salford, Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale, Bury, Bolton and Trafford — together with Cheshire East towns such as Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Congleton, Knutsford and Poynton. Between them these take in city-centre commercial districts, suburban high streets, housing estates, schools, parks and market towns, and we work across all of them for councils, housing providers, businesses and private customers. You'll find dedicated pages for many of these towns via our areas we cover page, each with a little more detail on the local service. If your location isn't named specifically, it's still well worth asking — we regularly take on work in surrounding areas too, including parts of Warrington, Wigan and Tameside. Send us your location when you get in touch and we'll confirm straight away that we can help and how quickly we can reach you.
Do you cover areas outside Greater Manchester?
Yes, to an extent — while Greater Manchester is at the heart of what we do, our coverage extends into neighbouring parts of the North West, particularly Cheshire East, where towns like Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Congleton, Knutsford and Poynton are firmly within our regular service area. We also take on work in surrounding areas including parts of Warrington, Wigan and Tameside, and we've carried out projects further afield when the job is right. The best approach is simply to ask: tell us where your site is and we'll confirm whether we cover it and how quickly we can get to you. Because we're a regional specialist, staying focused on the North West is deliberate — it's what lets us offer fast response times and genuine local knowledge, rather than spreading thin across the country. If you're on the edge of our usual patch, get in touch and we'll give you a straight answer.
Do you work nationally or across the whole UK?
No — and that's a deliberate choice. We're a North West specialist focused on Manchester, Greater Manchester and Cheshire East, rather than a national operator, because staying local is exactly what allows us to offer the things that matter most: rapid response, often the same or next working day; genuine knowledge of the area and its surfaces, from city-centre frontages to canal-side walls; and a personal, accountable service where you're dealing with the people actually doing the work. A nationwide chain simply can't reach an urgent or offensive graffiti job as quickly, or know a local area as well. So if your site is within the North West, we're ideally placed to help; if it's well outside the region, you'd generally be better served by a specialist local to that area. If you're unsure whether your location falls within our coverage, send us the details and we'll let you know honestly.

Still have a question? We're happy to help — get in touch or call0161 399 5247 and we'll give you a straight answer, along with a free, no-obligation quote if you need one.

Need graffiti gone — fast?

Call 0161 399 5247 or request a free quote. We respond within one working hour.