Rivers Hillock Estate, Whitefield, Manchester

Client: Contour Housing Group
Type of works: Sandtoft's clay roof tiles specified for re-roofing of 500 properties.

One of the North West’s largest social landlords has specified Sandtoft’s clay roof tiles for the re-roofing of 500 properties.

Contour Housing Group has selected the manufacturer’s large format Cassius and Olympus interlocking tiles for the refurbishment of the Rivers Hillock Estate in Whitefield, Manchester. The re-roofing project – which involves both houses and flats - is taking place over five years in yearly phases.

Graham Bullock, building surveyor at Contour Housing Group said: “When selecting the new roof tiles, we wanted to ensure a very aesthetic roof covering that would complement the surrounding properties in the area. The tiles also needed to be very cost effective, lightweight and meet the approval of the residents’ committee and housing manager for the estate”.

“Both Cassius and Olympus met all of our criteria. Work has started on the project and the roofers have found both tiles quick and easy to lay. They offer a realistic alternative to standard interlocking concrete tiles and have resulted in an excellent finish. I have received a number of positive comments from our technical staff, and most importantly our residents.”

Craig Sidda, Social Housing Manager at Sandtoft added: “These new large format clay tiles are 30% lighter than concrete tiles ensuring social housing providers can quickly complete refurbishment projects and minimise disruption for tenants. They offer considerable cost savings and are colour permanent ensuring a natural aesthetic roof that is guaranteed for at least 60 years.”

The Cassius and Olympus provide coverage of around 10 tiles per square metre and are the most cost-effective clay tiles available in the UK. Their innovative design dramatically reduces material and labour costs. The Antique Slate colour of Cassius together with its thin leading edge, provides an authentic slate appearance that complements the local vernacular at a price not usually associated with natural materials.