The Gables with Rosemary Clay Classic

The original roof was in dire need of repair and replacement due to its age and weathering. Tile fatigue, performance fatigue, cracked lead work, and moisture absorption had all taken their toll.

As such, it was a large-scale, labour-intensive job, requiring a smaller tile profile – to the extent of 60 plain tiles per square metre – which needed to be stripped off and recovered gradually, to protect the roof and property from the harsh, wet weather conditions. The project also required a strong working relationship with constant, clear communication between contractor, consultants and manufacturer – remotely and on site.

Interestingly, in this project, a broad array of skills were brought to bear: carpentry and joinery for the timber repairs and replacement, glazing in relevant areas, and also in changing the shape of the roof’s chimney stacks.

The roof originally had four chimney stacks, but – as part of the refurbishment – one needed to be carefully removed, with the area tiled over. Meanwhile, the remaining three stacks were partially taken down and rebuilt with matching brickwork – meaning the roofing team needed to work closely with a quality mason to create a finish sympathetic to the building’s history, but fit for the future.

This project is best-practice proof that craftsmanship, control and collaboration can deliver suitably stunning results that everyone can be proud of. 

The project was a success, with the client happy with the finished product, and the history of the house being preserved by the appropriate clay tiles. 

BMI UK & Ireland’s SpecMaster service was also chosen by the client, which provides a comprehensive bespoke specification for any pitched roof and on-going support from BMI’s technical Specification team, to ensure each element is installed correctly and to specification. On completion, the roof is covered by a 15 year guarantee.