Case Study: Render Cleaning & Maintenance Contract – Dundee Schools

Case Study: Render Cleaning & Maintenance Contract – Dundee Schools

Project: Multi-Site Render Cleaning & Ongoing Maintenance
Location: Dundee
Client: RFM (Robertson Facilities Management)
Sites: 6 Primary Schools & 2 High Schools

Project Overview

Ecoguard Scotland was awarded an ongoing render cleaning and maintenance contract covering eight schools across Dundee, all managed by RFM (Robertson Facilities Management).

The contract commenced in Summer 2024 with an initial programme of deep cleaning works, followed by a planned schedule of annual maintenance cleans designed to prevent the return of biological growth and protect the long-term condition of the buildings.

All works were delivered in accordance with RFM’s strict health and safety requirements, ensuring full compliance with their procedures, documentation standards, and site controls across every location.

Condition of the Render

At the outset of the contract, the render across all eight schools was found to be in significantly poor condition. Years of exposure to the Scottish climate had resulted in:

  • Heavy biological growth, including algae and lichen

  • Widespread staining and discolouration

  • Areas where moisture retention had led to early signs of deterioration

  • Localised water ingress, accelerating damage to the render system

Without intervention, further deterioration and costly remedial works were likely.

Initial Deep Cleaning Programme

During Summer 2024, Ecoguard Scotland carried out initial deep cleans to:

  • 6 primary schools

  • 2 high schools

The initial cleaning process involved:

  • Chemical treatment of all rendered surfaces to kill and loosen biological growth

  • Controlled steam cleaning to safely remove dead growth and ingrained soiling

  • Careful adjustment of pressure and temperature to suit individual render systems

  • Protection of surrounding materials, fixtures, and landscaping

This method allowed for effective restoration of the render while minimising moisture retention and surface damage.

Ongoing Maintenance Strategy

Following the completion of the deep cleans, the contract moved into a planned annual maintenance phase.

Maintenance works include:

  • Application of biocidal treatments to inhibit regrowth of algae and lichen

  • Targeted steam cleaning where required

  • Monitoring of render condition across all sites

  • Early intervention to prevent biological return and water-related deterioration

This proactive maintenance approach significantly extends the lifespan of the render systems and maintains consistent standards across all schools.

Working During School Holidays & Active Sites

The majority of works were completed during school holiday periods to minimise disruption. However, several schools continued to host daily clubs, activities, and community groups attended by children, meaning the sites were not fully vacant.

In addition:

  • Other maintenance and refurbishment works were being carried out simultaneously by different contractors

  • Multiple trades were often operating within the same school grounds

Ecoguard Scotland worked closely with RFM site teams to coordinate access, sequencing, and safety controls. Measures included:

  • Strict segregation of work areas

  • Controlled access routes and clear signage

  • Daily site briefings and coordination

  • Adherence to safeguarding and child safety protocols

This ensured all works were completed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with RFM’s operational standards.

Health, Safety & Compliance

RFM’s sites operate under rigorous health and safety expectations, and Ecoguard Scotland met all required standards, including:

  • Detailed risk assessments and method statements

  • COSHH documentation for all treatments used

  • Site-specific inductions and permit systems

  • Ongoing communication with facilities and site managers

Safety, organisation, and accountability were central to the successful delivery of the contract.

Outcome

The initial deep cleaning programme dramatically improved the appearance and condition of all eight schools, removing extensive biological growth and reducing the risk of further render deterioration.

The ongoing maintenance cleans now ensure:

  • Long-term prevention of biological regrowth

  • Reduced risk of water ingress and surface failure

  • Improved appearance of educational environments

  • Lower long-term maintenance and repair costs

Ecoguard Scotland Expertise

This contract highlights Ecoguard Scotland’s experience in:

  • Multi-site education sector maintenance contracts

  • Specialist render cleaning and preventative maintenance

  • Working under strict FM health and safety frameworks

  • Coordinating works on partially occupied sites

Delivering long-term asset protection solutions