Finding a solution that would preserve the heritage aesthetic of this property was paramount.

The Project
When the new owners of The Gables, a striking Arts & Crafts Victorian Residence, discovered the roof needed replacing, finding a solution that would preserve the heritage aesthetic of the property was paramount, but it was also important to ensure the roofing materials and workmanship were on par with the original installation. Built in 1896, The Gables is set in formal gardens and the replacement tiles had to match not merely the architectural integrity of the property but also blend in well with the wider landscape.

Project Name - The Gables
Contractor - NT Sweeting Roofing Contractors
Solution - BMI Redland Rosemary Clay Classic

The Challenge
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.

The Solution
This was a premium, prestigious reroofing project, and – as the samples of theRosemary Clay Classic demonstrated – the beautiful aesthetic of the tile was a key proof point for selection. There was also the existing heritage and reputation of Rosemary, with a long history across the UK that’s synonymous with the clay plain roof tile.

Finally, as a full system solution, Rosemary also gave the contractor and client added confidence through BMI Redland’s SpecMaster specification service and 15-year roof system guarantee offering, as well as everyday service and support to take the project smoothly from concept to completion.

The Impact
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.

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