Fraud Blocker
Creating Cleaner, healthier places to live...

Office

020 8088 0611

Whatsapp

07910 044 833

Office

020 8088 0611

Whatsapp

07910 044 833

Creating Cleaner, healthier places to live...
Creating Cleaner, healthier places to live...

Restoring the Savoy Hotel with Abseil DOFF Steam Cleaning

Abseil stone cleaning
Doff steam cleaning abseilers

Case Study: Restoring the Savoy Hotel with Abseil DOFF Steam Cleaning

At LBC, we take pride in delivering exceptional results for even the most challenging cleaning projects. Recently, we were entrusted with a prestigious task: restoring the iconic façade of the Savoy Hotel in London using abseil DOFF steam cleaning methods to remove years of built up staining to the stonework coping stones, and the stonework around all the windows of the courtyard elevations. Below, we share the details of this remarkable project and address common questions about this highly effective cleaning method.


Steam Cleaning The Savoy Hotel: A London Landmark

The Savoy Hotel, located in the heart of London, is a symbol of luxury and heritage. As one of the city’s most renowned hotels, it’s vital that its exterior remains as immaculate as its reputation. Over time, however, pollution, algae, and grime had dulled the grandeur of its façade.

Our team was called upon to restore the building’s original beauty without causing any damage to its delicate stonework. The solution? Abseil DOFF steam cleaning—a specialised technique ideal for historic and sensitive surfaces.

Abseiling is often an access method un thought about by less experienced & familiar companies. However abseiling was the ideal access method for this project seeing as mewps were not a viable option due to limited set up space or vehichle access. And scaffolding would have been overkill due to the shorter duration of the project.


The Challenge

Cleaning a building as historic and intricate as the Savoy comes with unique challenges:

  • Delicate Surfaces: The façade features ornate stonework that could be easily damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods.

  • Height and Access: The hotel’s towering structure required a safe and efficient way to access hard-to-reach areas.

  • Preservation Standards: As a historic landmark, the cleaning process had to comply with strict conservation guidelines.


Our Approach

  1. Site Assessment: Our first step was a comprehensive inspection of the façade. We identified areas with heavy grime buildup and assessed the stone’s condition to determine the safest cleaning approach.

  2. Abseil Access: Using rope access (abseiling), our trained operatives were able to reach every corner of the building safely and efficiently. This method ensured minimal disruption to the hotel’s operations and surrounding areas.

  3. DOFF Steam Cleaning: The DOFF system uses high-temperature steam at low pressure to gently remove dirt, algae, moss, and even paint. It’s perfect for historic buildings because it cleans effectively without damaging the underlying material.

  4. Post-Cleaning Inspection: After cleaning, we conducted a thorough inspection to ensure all areas were spotless and met the client’s expectations. The results were nothing short of transformative—the Savoy’s façade was restored to its former glory.


Common Questions About Abseil DOFF Steam Cleaning

What is DOFF steam cleaning?

DOFF steam cleaning is a system that uses superheated water (up to 150°C) delivered at low pressure. It effectively removes dirt, algae, moss, graffiti, and more without causing damage to delicate surfaces.

Why use abseil access for cleaning?

Abseil access allows operatives to reach high or awkward areas without the need for scaffolding or heavy machinery. It’s cost-effective, minimally disruptive, and ideal for buildings in busy urban locations like the Savoy.

Is DOFF steam cleaning safe for historic buildings?

Yes, it’s one of the safest methods available. Unlike abrasive techniques or harsh chemicals, the DOFF system is gentle and non-invasive, making it perfect for preserving the integrity of historic stonework.

How long does a project like this take?

The duration depends on the size and complexity of the building. For the Savoy, our team of two rope technicians plus a grounds man to manage the DOFF Machine completed the project in approximately one week, working meticulously to ensure every detail was addressed.

Can DOFF steam cleaning remove graffiti?

Absolutely. The high-temperature steam can break down graffiti without damaging the surface underneath. It’s an excellent solution for heritage sites and modern buildings alike.


The Results

Our work at the Savoy Hotel stands as a testament to the power of abseil DOFF steam cleaning. The façade now shines as brightly as the hotel’s reputation, showcasing its architectural beauty while protecting its historic integrity.

At LBC, we’re passionate about preserving London’s landmarks and delivering outstanding results for every client. If you have a cleaning challenge that requires expertise and precision, get in touch with us today.

 

Abseil facade cleaning London
Tfacade abseil cleaning