If you’ve ever admired the restored façade of a historic building or the revitalised surface of an old stone monument, there’s a good chance TORC cleaning played a part. This specialist stone cleaning system is trusted by heritage professionals, conservationists, and expert cleaning contractors across the UK for its ability to clean delicate stonework without causing damage.
At Servos Exterior Cleaning, we’re proud to offer TORC cleaning as part of our specialist services. Whether you’re managing a listed building or need to safely remove grime, paint, or biological growth from masonry, TORC could be the ideal solution. In this blog, we’ll explore what TORC cleaning is, how it works, what it’s used for, and why it’s often preferred over harsher cleaning methods.
What Is TORC Cleaning?
TORC cleaning is a specialist low-pressure cleaning system designed specifically for delicate surfaces, especially historic stonework. Developed by Stonehealth, a leading UK manufacturer of conservation-friendly cleaning equipment, the TORC system is a modern evolution of the JOS system, incorporating new technology for improved performance and control.
Rather than relying on high-pressure water or harsh chemicals, TORC cleaning gently combines a swirl of low-pressure air, fine granulate (like calcium carbonate), and a small amount of water. This unique vortex action effectively removes layers of dirt, paint, carbon staining, biological matter, and other surface contaminants without damaging the substrate beneath.
Because of its low-pressure and non-abrasive nature, TORC is often used on listed buildings, sculptures, war memorials, and other heritage structures that require careful treatment.
How Does TORC Cleaning Work?
The TORC system uses a specially engineered nozzle to direct a swirling vortex of air, water, and a safe, inert granulate. The process can be broken down into three core elements:
1. Compressed Air
Compressed air is used to create the vortex movement inside the TORC nozzle. This swirl is the key to the system’s gentle but thorough cleaning action.
2. Fine Granulate
Instead of using coarse grit or aggressive media, TORC uses a gentle cleaning granulate like calcite, dolomite, or glass powder, chosen based on the surface being cleaned. These materials are soft enough to avoid surface abrasion but still effective at breaking down contaminants.
3. Water Mist
A controlled mist of water is added to help suppress dust and reduce friction. This also allows the system to carry out cleaning without soaking or saturating the surface.
The result is a controlled, gentle swirl that lifts away dirt and biological material from the surface without etching or eroding the stonework.
What Can TORC Cleaning Be Used For?
TORC cleaning is a highly versatile system, ideal for a range of cleaning and conservation applications. Some of the most common uses include:
- Cleaning historic stone buildings
- Removing carbon pollution deposits on old brick and stone
- Eliminating algae, moss, and lichen from masonry
- Restoring monuments, statues, and memorials
- Stripping paint, graffiti, or limewash from delicate surfaces
- Cleaning decorative stonework or carvings
TORC can be used on a variety of materials, including sandstone, limestone, granite, marble, terracotta, brick, and even softer substrates like render or stucco. Its adaptability makes it especially valuable on sites where multiple materials are present.
How Is TORC Different From Other Stone Cleaning Methods?
There are several traditional methods for cleaning stone, including high-pressure washing, abrasive blasting, and chemical treatments. Each of these has its place, but TORC stands out for its ability to clean without damaging fragile surfaces.
Here’s how TORC compares:
Versus High-Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is often too aggressive for old stone. It can strip away surface detail, damage mortar joints, and force water into the structure, leading to longer-term issues like damp or frost damage. TORC operates at low pressure and uses far less water, making it safer and more sustainable.
Versus Sandblasting or Grit Blasting
Abrasive blasting with sand or grit is extremely harsh and can permanently scar historic stone. TORC avoids this by using softer granulates and a swirling action instead of direct impact.
Versus Chemical Cleaning
Chemical cleaners can be effective but may also react with the stone, leave residues, or require neutralisation afterwards. TORC cleaning is entirely physical, so there’s no risk of chemical damage or harmful runoff.
What Are the Benefits of TORC Cleaning?
Gentle on Surfaces
The main benefit of TORC is its gentleness. It’s designed to preserve the integrity and appearance of the underlying stonework, even on centuries-old buildings or sculptures.
Highly Effective
Despite its delicate nature, TORC is extremely effective. It removes carbon staining, algae, and graffiti without scrubbing or harsh chemicals.
Environmentally Friendly
Because it uses minimal water and no chemicals, TORC is one of the most eco-conscious cleaning methods available.
Safe for Heritage Sites
TORC is trusted by English Heritage, the National Trust, and conservation specialists across the UK. It’s often the method of choice for listed buildings and protected structures.
Minimises Water Ingress
Its low-water approach makes TORC ideal for properties where water absorption is a concern, reducing the risk of damp or future decay.
Is TORC Cleaning Right for Your Property?
TORC cleaning is not just for stately homes and listed landmarks. If you have a property with natural stone features, decorative brickwork, or heritage detailing, TORC may be the safest and most effective cleaning method.
At Servos, we begin every project with a full assessment of the surface condition and cleaning requirements. This ensures we select the most appropriate and least invasive method, whether that’s TORC cleaning, Doff steam cleaning, or another conservation-safe system.
Why Choose Servos for TORC Cleaning?
With over a decade of experience in exterior cleaning, our team at Servos is trained in the latest conservation cleaning techniques. We are fully qualified to operate the TORC system and have successfully used it across a range of commercial, domestic, and heritage projects.
We take great pride in delivering results that not only improve appearance but also respect and preserve the building’s integrity. Whether you need a sensitive clean on a war memorial, a pollution removal treatment on historic brickwork, or gentle graffiti removal on stone cladding, we’re here to help.
Get in Touch for Expert Stone Cleaning Services
If you think your property could benefit from TORC cleaning, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Servos Exterior Cleaning. We’ll be happy to provide expert advice, carry out a free assessment, and deliver a detailed quotation for your project. Call us today on 01745 289055 or email clean@servos.co.uk
Let’s bring your stonework back to life, safely, professionally, and with the care it deserves.