Case Study: DOFF Cleaning of Dundee Law War Memorial

Case Study: DOFF Cleaning of Dundee Law War Memorial

Project: Stone Cleaning & Conservation Support
Location: Dundee Law, Dundee
Client: Dundee City Council / Conservation Team
Date: 100-Year Anniversary Works

Project Overview

Ecoguard Scotland was commissioned to carry out specialist DOFF steam cleaning of the Dundee Law War Memorial as part of a wider programme of conservation and renovation works marking the monument’s 100-year anniversary.

The memorial occupies a highly prominent and symbolic position at the summit of Dundee Law, overlooking the city and the River Tay. Due to its historical importance and public visibility, all cleaning works were required to be undertaken with the utmost care, using conservation-approved methods that would preserve the integrity of the stone while enhancing its appearance for this significant centenary.

Historical Significance of the Monument

The Dundee Law War Memorial was erected in the aftermath of the First World War to commemorate the men and women of Dundee who lost their lives in military service. Unveiled in the mid-1920s, the memorial has since stood as one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and a focal point for remembrance ceremonies.

Constructed from natural stone and positioned at one of the highest points in the city, the monument has been exposed to a century of harsh weather conditions, atmospheric pollution, and biological growth. Its 100-year anniversary provided an important opportunity to sensitively clean and conserve the structure, ensuring it continues to serve future generations as a place of reflection and remembrance.

Scope of Works

Ecoguard Scotland’s role focused on the DOFF superheated steam cleaning of the memorial’s stone surfaces. This was carried out alongside other conservation and renovation tasks undertaken by specialist contractors.

Our works included:

  • Low-pressure DOFF steam cleaning of stone surfaces

  • Removal of biological growth, ingrained dirt, and atmospheric soiling

  • Supporting the wider conservation programme without disrupting parallel works

  • Ensuring all cleaning methods were fully compliant with heritage and conservation best practice

Project Challenges

This project presented several significant logistical and operational challenges:

Public Access
Dundee Law is a popular public space with constant pedestrian access. The memorial is visited daily by walkers, tourists, and those paying their respects. Works had to be carefully planned to ensure public safety at all times, with minimal disruption and clear site management.

Remote Location
Situated at the summit of Dundee Law, the site has no direct access to mains water or electrical power. This required detailed advance planning and the use of self-contained DOFF equipment, along with transported water supplies, to ensure uninterrupted cleaning operations.

Environmental Exposure
The elevated and exposed location meant works were subject to rapidly changing weather conditions, including wind and rain. Cleaning schedules had to remain flexible to ensure the safety of operatives and the effectiveness of the DOFF system.

Conservation-Led Approach

DOFF cleaning was selected due to its suitability for historic stonework. The system uses superheated water at low pressure, allowing for the gentle removal of soiling and biological matter without abrasive action or chemical damage.

This approach ensured:

  • No harm to the stone substrate

  • Preservation of historic surface detail

  • An even, natural finish appropriate for a memorial setting

Outcome

The completed cleaning works significantly improved the appearance of the Dundee Law War Memorial while fully respecting its historical and cultural importance. The stonework was revitalised, allowing architectural details and inscriptions to be clearly visible once again.

The project contributed to the successful completion of the wider conservation programme, ensuring the memorial was presented at its best for its 100-year anniversary commemorations and continues to stand as a dignified tribute to Dundee’s fallen.

Ecoguard Scotland Expertise

This project highlights Ecoguard Scotland’s experience in:

  • Heritage and memorial cleaning

  • DOFF steam cleaning for conservation projects

  • Working in sensitive public and historically significant locations

  • Delivering specialist works under challenging logistical conditions