Case Study: Exterior Cleaning Works at Carnoustie Hotel

Case Study: Exterior Cleaning Works at Carnoustie Hotel

Project: Large-Scale Exterior Cleaning & Refurbishment Support
Location: Carnoustie, Angus
Client: Carnoustie Hotel & Spa

Project Overview

Ecoguard Scotland was appointed to deliver a comprehensive exterior cleaning programme at the Carnoustie Hotel & Spa, a landmark coastal hotel overlooking the world-famous Carnoustie Championship Golf Links.

The works formed part of a wider refurbishment project, carried out while the hotel remained fully operational and while other contractors were simultaneously completing internal renovation works. Due to the scale of the building, its prominent location, and constant guest activity, careful planning, coordination, and safe working practices were essential throughout the project’s six-week duration.

Scope of Works

The project covered all major external surfaces across the hotel complex, requiring specialist equipment, controlled cleaning methods, and phased delivery to minimise disruption to guests and hotel operations.

Works undertaken included:

Slate Roof Cleaning

  • Cleaning of an extensive 4,000m² natural slate roof

  • Removal of moss, lichen, and organic growth using roof-safe cleaning systems

  • Works carried out in phases to maintain safety and operational continuity

Painted Harling Cleaning

  • Cleaning of the hotel’s painted harling elevations

  • Careful removal of surface soiling, environmental staining, and organic growth

  • Methods selected to protect coatings and preserve the finish

Paths, Walls & External Surfaces

  • Pressure washing of boundary walls, footpaths, and service routes

  • Restoration of heavily trafficked pedestrian areas

Outdoor Patio & Guest Areas

  • Thorough cleaning of the outdoor patio areas where guests sit and enjoy views over the iconic 1st tee and 18th green

  • Works carefully scheduled to avoid peak guest use and hospitality events

  • Ensured clean, safe, and visually impressive spaces for guests

Working on a Live Hotel Site

One of the key challenges of this project was delivering large-scale external works across a busy, fully functioning hotel in a high-profile tourist location.

Key considerations included:

  • Continuous guest movement and outdoor use of spaces

  • Hotel access points, drop-off zones, and service areas remaining open

  • High visibility of works from guest rooms and public areas

In addition, Ecoguard Scotland worked alongside other trades carrying out internal refurbishment works, requiring daily coordination to avoid clashes and maintain safe access for all parties.

Health, Safety & Project Coordination

Safety and organisation were central to the success of the six-week programme. Measures included:

  • Detailed risk assessments and method statements

  • Phased work zones with clear signage and segregation

  • Coordination meetings with hotel management and other contractors

  • Flexible scheduling to adapt to hotel operations and weather conditions

All works were carried out with minimal noise, disruption, and visual impact wherever possible.

Outcome

The completed cleaning programme dramatically improved the appearance of the Carnoustie Hotel’s exterior. Roofs, walls, paths, and guest areas were restored to a clean, well-maintained standard befitting one of Scotland’s most prestigious golf destinations.

The project was completed safely, on schedule, and without disruption to hotel operations, contributing to the overall success of the wider refurbishment works.

Ecoguard Scotland Expertise

This project demonstrates Ecoguard Scotland’s ability to:

  • Deliver large-scale exterior cleaning projects over extended programmes

  • Clean extensive slate roofing safely and effectively

  • Work efficiently on live hospitality sites

  • Coordinate with multiple trades on complex refurbishment projects

  • Maintain high safety and presentation standards in high-profile locations