Historic Roofs & Lead Work

A roof is the first line of defence against the elements, in an Historic Building the protection it offers is vital and therefore it must be most carefully maintained. Even then all roofs reach end of life.  We specialise in meticulous restoration of traditional roof coverings wherever possible reusing original tiles or slates. Heritage craftsmanship is employed to preserve your roof’s structural integrity and historic character.  We do not compromise on ensuring optimal weather protection for your home, but we do insist on an authentic finish. 

Prior to starting works, our roofing projects begin with a thorough expert inspection. We will spend time to propose a thoughtful considered plan.

Timber Roof Structure Repair:

Sections of timber roof structures rot over time, leaving the original structure vulnerable. Our approach is to save as much of the original structure through conserving repairs utilising traditional joinery, always with age-appropriate matching timber. Often the timber is held in place using timber dowels and joints rather than metal plates and screws. This approach preserves the restored structure’s original strength and aesthetic appeal.  We usually carry a stock of timber reclaimed from old property demolitions for this purpose. 

If necessary, we consult with our Structural Engineer. Our skilled team has extensive experience in eradicating these issues.

Common repairs we undertake are:

• Rafter Repairs: We repair damaged rafters or double up, preserving as much of the original timber as possible.
• Rafter Replacements: When rafter sections are too damaged, replace them with new aged softwood or hardwood rafters suitable for the existing structure.
• Solid Wall Plate Restoration: Cut out sections and half lap/dowel replacements and restrain against rafters
• Ridge plate strengthening: If deflection is serious, introduce structural beam and/or end supports
• Purlin propping: Supplement or replace existing.

Leadwork

Lead has been used for centuries. Common on historic and listed buildings, to ensure protection against water ingress, it has been crucial for the building’s longevity. It is also used decoratively. We are practised in conserving, repairing, restoring, and maintaining lead elements on all types of buildings. Whether producing a hopper for a church or relaying Lead flashings to a Georgian townhouse, we understand the task at hand. These services are essential for preserving architectural authenticity and therefore value. We ensure continued functionality in line with the original workmanship.

Heritage lead working services include:

• Condition Surveys: Comprehensive assessments of existing leadwork to determine its condition. Searching for and identifying defects like cracking and underside lead corrosion (ULC).
• Historical Research: Documenting the leadwork’s historical context, including original construction methods, materials, and previous repairs or alterations.
• Restoration and Repair Techniques: Diverse methods: sand casting, pouring around railings, bossing, and lead welding to repair or replace lead elements. We can specify and commission Lead greater than Code 8.
• Roofing and Flashings: Restoring sections or replacing lead roofing, renewing lead sheets, installing lead flashings, gutters, and even downpipes. 
• Ornamental Leadwork: Decorative Elements: Restoring ornamental lead features which may involve intricate mould-making and casting processes to recreate detailed designs.
• Compliance and Sustainability:
• Regulatory Compliance: Wherever possible we constantly refer to Lead Sheet Association (LSA) to ensure all work complies with LSA details and specification while fitting in with local conservation guidelines and building regulations, especially for listed buildings.
• Sustainable Practices: Lead is an endlessly recycled product. We ensure all old lead is taken to a processing site to re-enter the Lead process all over again. 

Handmade Clay Tiles & Slates

Most older properties in the UK have either handmade clay tiles (often pegged) or slates. Modern rooves mainly use concrete tiles. We specialise in the former, working hard to retain original tiles or slates when recovering. Where necessary we source appropriate materials to match the original appearance of the structure. This is a process that takes time, planning, and a careful hand, which is what our team excels at.

We conduct a survey of the roof covering, noting all failures, dislodgements, excessive erosion (or spalling), and biological growth. This is to help us document the history of the roof, the origin of tiles/materials used to inform our decision if supplementing with reclaim or new handmade tiles. 

Traditional methods are employed handling tiles and slates, every effort is made to match the original. The priority with restoration projects is to conserve as many of the original materials as possible, reuse them throughout the repair works,

For certain situations, we will assess the roof structure to identify and address any issues that could impact the performance of the roof coverings. This is covered in our Timber Roof Structure Repair section

A word about environmental surveys.

Bats, Newts etc: We have experience in all the organisational elements that must be in place prior to work starting where there are protected species. We have a track record for installing bat roost/tiles, and nest boxes for other birds. We work with an independent environmental service who produce the necessary licence. This normally must happen between May and September and must be completed prior to any work starting in any area affected.

Cast Iron Guttering

Damp causes terrible damage to any building, and rainwater goods are often overlooked as a source. We have conserved many original cast iron gutters and refurbished them to keep your rainwater, and therefore the fabric of the building in good order.  Cast iron systems are renowned for their durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal, making them a logical choice for heritage properties. 

Cast Iron works:

• Refurbishment Repairs: Dismantle, remove all old putty and paint. Finish with a suitable system like the 3 part Dulux Metalshield system.
• Partial replacement: or changes to undersized hoppers etc.
• Full new system: Specify with a roof volume calculation, introduce more outlets and gulleys if necessary. 

Benefits of Professional Roof Conservation and Restoration:

• Preserves Architectural Heritage: Maintains the historic character of your period property.
• Improved Structural Integrity: Ensures the long-term structural stability and performance of your roof.
• Enhanced Weather Protection: Protects your home from the elements and prevents water damage.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: A properly insulated and weatherproofed roof can improve your home’s energy efficiency.
• Enhanced Curb Appeal: A beautiful, restored roof adds value and visual appeal to your property.