Maintenance tips for recladded buildings: prolonging the life of your facade

Published on: January 19, 2026

Recladding can transform the performance and appearance of a building, improving fire safety, thermal performance and kerb appeal. However, the long-term benefits depend on how well the new facade is maintained.

GSIM’s facade maintenance work – supported by our technical insight article on recladded buildings – highlights several key steps for protecting your investment.

1. Schedule regular facade inspections

Carry out visual inspections at least twice a year, ideally in spring and autumn. Look for:

Cracks, staining or discolouration
Loose fixings, damaged flashings or sealant failures
Impact damage at ground level or around balconies

Early identification of issues allows minor defects to be repaired before they develop into larger problems.

2. Keep a sensible cleaning regime

Dirt and pollutants can shorten facade life and spoil the appearance of the building. Recommended practice includes:

Gentle cleaning with soft brushes or low-pressure washing
Avoiding abrasive tools or aggressive chemicals
Using specialist facade cleaners for stubborn staining
Employing professional access and cleaning teams for tall buildings

Clean facades are easier to inspect and maintain.

3. Manage moisture carefully

Water is one of the biggest threats to any cladding system. Owners should:

Keep gutters, downpipes and drainage channels clear
Check for signs of water tracking or staining around junctions
Ensure landscaping and hard surfaces do not trap water against the facade

Good moisture management protects both the cladding and the underlying structure.

4. Use protective coatings where appropriate

In some systems, protective coatings can improve resistance to UV, pollution and staining. Always:

Choose products compatible with the cladding material
Follow manufacturer recommendations and re-coating intervals
Use competent contractors to apply coatings evenly and safely

5. Act quickly on defects and involve specialists

If inspection reveals damaged panels, failed sealant or movement joints, repair work should be scheduled promptly. For complex defects, engaging cladding specialists such as GSIM helps ensure that remedial work addresses root causes rather than symptoms.

A well-maintained recladded facade delivers safety, durability and aesthetics for decades. With a structured maintenance regime, building owners can maximise the value of their remediation project.