Managing a heritage build can be an intimidating process. This can easily involve reacting to damage, adding a long-overdue new roof on your property, of finally making long delayed improvements; leaving it difficult to know exactly where to start.
So, here are three important things to know when it comes to restoring your property.
1. The importance of professional experience
Working with heritage materials is a demanding job with a very high skill ceiling. Any heritage or listed building will have been fashioned from period materials which require specific training and experience to apply in a modern setting. Any reliable provider should have a catalogue of projects they have completed or been attached to. Having an opportunity to walk through those can give an idea of their calibre and give inspiration to your own renovations. Working with an older building can mean that special considerations may need to be taken when dealing brickwork, beams, or antique tiles. Hiring a solid team will allow you to not only avoid these issues but use their experience to manage your build more efficiently. If damage does occur, it is important to make sure that your provider carries appropriate insurance for your home and that the parameters of it are fully walked through before you begin.2. How to check your roof successfully
Before you contact a professional, it is important to take a detailed and safe survey of your roof. Carrying out a check in each of the seasons can pay out dividends in the long run.Some common issues to look for include-
Inspecting your gutters: Check your pipes for any blockages or issues before and during the autumn season. This is often given away by leaks or falling water in the case of high winds. Take time to seek out any slanting on your gutterwork and, where present, check to see that they are properly secured to the building. Checking your roof coverings and chimneys: These should be checked after gale force winds… or if you hear the unfortunate sound of slates smashing in the night. Take the time to review your site and inspect your roof or attic for leakage and – where tiles haven’t been removed – double check that they are not slanted or misaligned. Checking your flashing: As with your roof coverings, these are best inspected after stormy weather. Take some time to check that your flashing is still flush with your wall and that it hasn’t been left unsecured by adverse weather.3. That you are not consigned to ‘period’ materials
While Historic England may suggest using period-appropriate materials to repair your roof, there is often no legal requirement to work with elements like tile and slate alone. In fact, restricting yourself to period-appropriate materials can often prevent problems from being resolved that may re-occur in future.If you live in or have purchased a heritage building, the unique character it enjoys is likely to have been a large part of its unique appeal. While retaining this identity may be important, using new methods and materials can go a long way toward maintain it for future generations of your family and others to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a solution for your heritage roofing repair needs, we hope you do not hesitate to get in touch with our team directly and let us know exactly what you need to complete your build with ease and authenticity.