NFRC Scotland Roof Slating Winner 2017
Main Contractor: Rooftec (Scotland) Ltd
Client: Private Homeowner
Set in the affluent area of Bridge of Allan this large 150 year old detached Victorian villa was in need of a full roof replacement of the original roof. We had banked on some sarking repairs however upon stripping the rot was extensive. A fantastic end result and amazing clients to work with who have given one of the best references we have ever had.
Upon stripping the roof, it became apparent that the rafters were completely rotten, this was most extensive in all detailed areas. We had to remove sections, bolt new rafters in place and spray all areas with wood preservative. This was particularly bad at the eaves but could not be picked up in the initial survey due to the thickness of the sandstone walls that were hiding the deep eaves rot. Due to the volume of rafter repairs and in areas sarking defects it worked out more economical to re sarking the full property. Providing the extras costs and options to the client they decided to replace all sarking and now have full peace of mind in their forever home.
Once fully repaired/replaced we then began with the grading out of all slates at ground level to help achieve a uniform finish when using a natural product. All slates were double copper nailed and slate cover taken into consideration to accommodate the various pitches of the many roof sections and junctions we encountered whilst working the slates in accurately to deliver perfectly straight valley cuts using slate knifes and the guillotine at times. The photos demonstrate the uniformity achieved over the pitched slated areas and the precision in the valleys. This shows a real understanding of slating practice and skill to carry it off.
Throughout the various roof areas lead was dressed and installed in valleys around the dormers, 3 chimneys, all again following the LSA guides.
The main objective of this project was to restore this 150 year old roof to its former glory, in keeping with the character of the property.
There were various dormer sections that had lead work detailing and vertical slating to the cheeks.
Conservation windows were located close to valley sections which we had to accommodate when working the slates in and around these areas. There also was an old skylight which the client really did not want to part with, it had previously been re-glazed however required some attention, we removed and refurbished and were able to be replace the original.
The gable end ladder sections had to be completely rebuilt to include fascia and piano key style soffits to match the originals as with the finials. We had to carefully remove sections to allow an architectural woodwork specialist to recreate.
On the rear of the property the various dormers, skylights, valleys, verges and chimneys added to the complexity of this project but from the photograph the finished result speaks for itself. This was another project where our apprentices were able to see the extent that a re roofing project can take, the skills required and without doubt this roof added massive value to their learning from our tradesmen.
Overall this was an excellent project, our team loved it in the respect that it did have challenges which allowed their skills and knowledge to be shown.
The best client feedback we could have hoped for now follows:
“I was recommended Rooftec by friend who does a good deal of work with Historic Scotland. Our first meeting couldn’t have gone any better Mark turned up as agreed armed with full range of slates talked us through the process and assured us from the word go that the job would be fully documented including a portfolio of photographs.
We chose Mark ahead of three other quotes not because he was the cheapest, in fact he was middle of the prices we received, but because quite simply he was so professional from the first minute we met. He instantly put our minds at ease about the project we were about to start, a reslating of a 150yr old original roof.
He was the only person who took the time to explain the differences in slates, he was also extremely sympathetic to the historic nature of the house which was a major part for us. He explained the differences from Spanish ‘A’grade to the one we chose the Welsh Penrhyn Slate, as it was the closest colouring and quality of the slate that was being replaced.
From day 1, Mark was very keen to make sure we understood what he was talking about with regards to facias, sarking etc and it helped us through what turned out to be a bigger project than anyone could have imagined, owing to the age and state of disrepair that we were dealing with on our roof. Onwards and upwards the team at Rooftec can only be described as truly professional, often seen at the end of full day shift literally picking up odd nails or slate chippings from the days work, to leave the site clean tidy and safe.
Fast forward to the end of the project, the elements weren’t particularly kind to us in parts, but Mark assured us that all scaffold would be gone pre Xmas with two minor elevations to be done in the New Year. There was never any doubt that he would keep to his word .Three days before Xmas all scaffold was removed revealing a truly magnificent roof … and we have just come to the end of the first week back at work and the two small elevations fully completed and site immaculate.
Dealing with Rooftec, from Mark, Nicola to the lads on site on a daily basis has been a first class experience. We have a full portfolio of photos of everything that went into the end result. We are now the proud owners of the finest looking roof in the area and we have had nothing but compliments from neighbours.
Many thanks again
Lio & Karen”
