Fascia and soffit cleaning removes the green algae, grey grime and black streaks that build up on the uPVC boards along your roofline. Most homes need it every one to two years, and it can be done safely from the ground with extended poles, without ladders leaning on the gutters. It is best done at the same time as gutter clearing and window cleaning, in that order.

What are fascias and soffits?

The fascia is the long board fixed along the bottom edge of the roof, and it is what your gutters are attached to. The soffit is the board underneath, facing the ground, closing the gap between the fascia and the wall of the house. Older homes have painted timber; most houses in Cambourne and the newer Cambridge developments have white uPVC. Many also have bargeboards on the gable ends, which collect the same dirt. Together they frame the house, so when they go grubby the whole front looks tired, even with clean windows.

Why does uPVC go green or grey?

uPVC does not rot, but it does hold dirt, and several things are going on at once:

  • Algae and moss: green patches, mostly on north-facing sides and under trees, where the boards stay damp for longer.
  • Traffic film: a dull grey layer, worst on houses near busy roads.
  • Overflowing gutters: black vertical streaks down the front of the fascia usually mean dirty water has been spilling over the gutter edge.
  • Webs and dust: soffits are sheltered, so rain never washes them, and cobwebs and insects build up underneath.

The longer it is left, the harder the grime is to shift. Black streaks are also a sign that the gutters need attention, so it is worth fixing the cause, not just the stain.

How is fascia and soffit cleaning done safely from the ground?

We work from the ground with extended poles and soft brushes fed with water, rather than leaning ladders against the gutters, which can crack them or push them out of line. The brush loosens the algae and grime and the water rinses it away. On the day, the job usually runs like this:

  1. Check the gutters first. There is no point cleaning a fascia under a blocked gutter that will overflow again with the next downpour.
  2. Clean the fascias, soffits and bargeboards, working along each side of the house.
  3. Rinse the walls, sills and windows below, which catch some of the dirty water.

A pressure washer is the wrong tool here. High pressure can force water behind the boards and into the roof space, and it can damage seals and vents. A gentle brush and plenty of water does the job without that risk.

When and how often should you have it done?

For most homes, a clean every 12 to 24 months keeps the roofline looking white. Houses under trees, next to fields or on a busy road may need it every year. If you are selling or letting, a clean before the photos are taken makes a visible difference to the front of the house.

Because the fascia carries the gutter, the jobs fit together: clear the gutters, clean the fascias and soffits, then do the windows last so anything that drips down is washed off the glass. August is a good month for it, as the boards dry quickly in settled weather. If you have large trees nearby, plan on having the gutters checked again once the leaves have come down in late autumn.

Frequently asked questions

Will cleaning remove the black streaks on my fascias?

Usually, yes. Streaks left by overflowing gutters come off with a brush and the right cleaning solution, although very old staining on weathered uPVC may lighten rather than disappear completely.

Do you need access to the back garden?

Yes, to clean the rear of the house we need the side gate left open or someone at home. We will confirm this when you book.

Can painted timber fascias be cleaned the same way?

They can, gently, but any paint that is already flaking will come away. Cleaning often shows up boards that need repainting, which is worth knowing before the winter.

How CamClean can help

We offer fascia cleaning in Cambridge and the surrounding villages from £125, working from the ground with no ladders on your gutters. Gutter clearing starts from £129 and can be booked on the same visit. Our team is vetted and insured. Call 01954 783308 or get a free quote.