Cleaning sticky, slippy steps at Bristol University

With the lovely sunshine we are now experiencing, it’s hard to remember just how long our most recent UK winter seemed to last.

Those damp, short days with minimal sunshine created the perfect conditions for algae to thrive on paved areas such as pathways and steps (especially those shaded by trees) creating potential slip hazards.  

This is exactly what happened to the steps and pathways next to the Queen’s Building at Bristol University. Adding to the issue is the sticky sap that has fallen onto the steps and handrails from trees next to the steps.

Time to call in the exterior cleaning specialists to sort things out.

The value of regular exterior cleaning

The External Estates Team at Bristol University takes a proactive approach to building maintainance, including keeping the exterior areas of the university buildings looking clean and well-kept. They also understand the importance of having pathways and steps regularly cleaned to help prevent slips, and have relied on OneFifty for many years to carry out recurring cleans.  

We find that pressurised steam works well for removing algae quickly and effectively. On this occasion it also made light work of removing the sticky sap from the steps and handrails. Finally, we applied a biocide to help inhibit regrowth and keep the paved surfaces algae-free for longer - even when the wet weather returns. 

Once the cleaning was complete the area outside the Queen's Building was transformed, looking clean and fresh, right on time for the University's annual open day.  

If you have pathways or steps that are slippery with algae, contact Max or Andy Morris on 0333 234 1445 or email your cleaning enquiry and a member of our team will get back to you as quickly as possible.