Restoring Excellence: Kitchen Ventilation Rehabilitation at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

jorgkruse
Oct 6
2 min read

A 3-Phase Project with Palmer Contracting LLC & Lining Coating Solutions LLC

When one of Florida’s most prestigious beachfront destinations—the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island—needed critical rehabilitation work on its kitchen ventilation systems, the property entrusted Palmer Contracting LLC, in partnership with Lining Coating & Solutions LLC, to take on the challenge.

This multi-phase project, scheduled across three months in late 2025, demonstrates how innovative rehabilitation methods and precision planning can restore essential infrastructure while preserving the luxury guest experience the Ritz-Carlton brand is known for.

The Challenge

The hotel’s three independent kitchen and restaurant duct systems span eight stories, measuring 24” x 12.5” and running from the ceiling of the main kitchen all the way to rooftop access points. These ducts play a critical role in keeping the property safe and comfortable by carrying away smoke, airborne grease, and heat through a network of fresh-air recirculation fans.

Over time, wear, leaks, and stress at welded joints and flanged areas compromised the integrity of the systems. The property management team requested a full rehabilitation—opting for a complete lining solution to extend system life, restore efficiency, and eliminate costly failures.

The Solution

The project was divided into three phases:

Phase 1 – August 2025
Phase 2 – September 2025
Phase 3 – October 2025

Each phase required 8–10 days of work, carefully scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruption for hotel guests and ongoing banquet events.

Project Highlights:

Cleaning performed by a local duct service provider, followed by abrasive interior blasting to prepare surfaces.
Rehabilitation carried out using the IPP PipeCaster Pro system with a customized Maxi Head applicator and adjustable centering skid—adapted specifically for rectangular duct interiors.
Coating applied with Royal Blue Flex material, chosen for its durability and resistance to high-heat environments.
Vertical setup included a suspended, remotely lifted spin blaster system engineered for precision application.

Behind the Innovation

Much of the success of this project comes down to creative problem-solving. Traditional equipment is designed for round pipe systems, but this project required specialized modifications to effectively reline rectangular ducts.

Matt Marcum, who led the rehabilitation design and implementation, engineered equipment modifications to ensure uniform coverage and adherence inside the ductwork. He also provided site project management and consultation services on behalf of Palmer Contracting and Lining Coating Solutions.

A Lasting Impact

For the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, the project wasn’t just about repairing aging infrastructure—it was about ensuring that guests continue to enjoy flawless experiences, from fine dining to world-class events, without the risk of system downtime or safety concerns.

By combining advanced rehabilitation techniques with thoughtful project scheduling, Palmer Contracting LLC and Lining Coating & Solutions LLC delivered a long-term, cost-effective solution that upholds the property’s reputation for excellence.

✨ Project at a Glance