Why You Must Use a Specialist to Repair Kent Peg Roof Tiles

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Kent peg roof tiles, with their distinctive design and historical significance, offer a unique aesthetic to traditional homes in the Kent area. However, like any roofing material, they are susceptible to damage over time. When maintenance or repairs are needed, it’s crucial to enlist the services of a specialist who understands the intricacies of this type of roofing. Here are several reasons why choosing a specialist is essential.

1. Expertise in Traditional Kent Peg Techniques

Kent peg tiles are typically handcrafted and follow traditional methods of installation. A specialist will have the required expertise in these techniques, ensuring that repairs adhere to historical practices. This knowledge is vital in maintaining the roof’s authenticity and prolonging its lifespan.

2. Understanding Material Properties

Kent peg tiles are often made from clay and have specific properties that need to be understood to perform repairs correctly. A specialist will know how to work with these materials, ensuring that any replacements match the existing tiles in both durability and appearance. This attention to detail is critical in preserving the integrity of your roof.

3. Diagnosing Underlying Issues

Sometimes, damage to Kent peg roof tiles can signal deeper problems in the roofing structure. A specialist will have the experience to accurately diagnose these underlying issues, preventing further damage and expensive repairs down the line. They can identify problems such as inadequate drainage, substructure weaknesses, or damage from pests, and provide appropriate solutions.

4. Proper Tools and Techniques

Repairing Kent peg roof tiles often requires specialized tools and equipment that laypeople may not have access to or knowledge of. Specialists come equipped with the right tools and techniques to ensure repairs are done efficiently and safely. Using improper tools can lead to further damage or unsafe working conditions.

5. Compliance with Building Regulations

In many cases, repairs to historical buildings or traditional roofing materials must comply with specific local building regulations. A qualified specialist will be familiar with these rules and ensure that all repairs meet legal standards, thus avoiding potential fines or future complications.

6. Warranty and Guarantees

Reputable specialists often provide guarantees or warranties on their work, giving homeowners peace of mind. If a repair does not hold up, a specialist is likely to offer remedy services, whereas a DIY job might leave you with no recourse for recouping costs or fixing further issues.

7. Time and Cost Efficiency

While hiring a specialist might seem more expensive initially, it can save money in the long run. Experts work efficiently and effectively, minimizing the time taken to complete a job. Additionally, their precise repairs can prevent future problems that might arise from improper DIY fixes, ultimately saving homeowners from costly future repairs.

Conclusion

When it comes to repairing Kent peg roof tiles, enlisting the help of a specialist is paramount. Their expertise in traditional techniques, understanding of materials, ability to diagnose underlying issues, and adherence to regulations will ensure that your roof is in the best possible condition. Investing in a qualified professional not only protects your home but also preserves its historical value, making it a wise choice for any homeowner.

How to Check if a Property is Heritage Listed

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As a heritage roofing specialist, we have taken our services to many of England’s historic
properties – some of which are listed as Grade I or Grade II. This is what we mean by
“heritage listed buildings”, which we’ll explain in more detail below, as well as how to find out
if a property is listed.

What are listed buildings, and how are they protected?

Listed buildings are “properties that have been recognised for their historical or architectural
significance”.

A listed building doesn’t necessarily have to be beautiful, in the conventional sense. There
are some striking examples of brutalism and plenty of controversial additions to the list
– each interesting or significant in their own way.

But beautiful or not, all of these buildings are protected by law to preserve their character,
and to make sure that any alterations or repairs are sympathetic to their original design.
In England, the responsibility for listing buildings lies with Historic England, which maintains
the National Heritage List for England (NHLE). This is where anyone can go to check if a
building is listed.

How to check if a property is listed

To check if a property is heritage listed, visit the Historic England website and use the
search tool. Simply enter the property address or name – or even just the rough area if you
aren’t sure – and the database will show if the property is listed, along with a map, details
about its significance and its protection status.

The search tool can also help you find all the heritage listed buildings in a town or postcode
area, which is useful if you’re a fan of history and want to explore it – in your hometown, or
further afield.

The significance and historical importance attached to them means that heritage listed
buildings can prove to be difficult beasts to work on for their owners.

For example, when performing roofing work on a listed building gets tricky, finding the right
roofer for the job can be hard – especially with so many old-fashioned skills and trades
becoming extinct.

But it’s vitally important that these buildings are cared for properly.

Importance of maintenance and using a heritage roofing specialist

Maintaining a listed building is part of the contract for anybody who owns one.

Remember, they’re protected by law, and regular maintenance – fixing things that go wrong,
and not allowing the building to decay – is a big part of that. Roofing is a huge element in
maintenance because if the roof goes wrong, the whole building goes wrong. It’s a major
vulnerability, which exposes the building to the elements in ways that other failure points
don’t.

As we’ve explored in the past, you don’t have to use a heritage roofing specialist to carry out
work on listed properties. But you really should – and here’s why.

Only specialist roofers have the expertise and experience needed to do the job right.

They’re the last line in hard-earned knowledge, passed down over generations. They know
how these age-old roof structures were made. They have practical experience of working on
them, and a deep understanding of how they work and react to subtle changes.

They’ll be bound to using appropriate materials and techniques that comply with
conservation requirements.

And heritage roofing specialists understand the unique challenges posed by listed buildings
– and to their owners.

They’ll know where to source traditional materials and how to replicate historic
craftsmanship. This kind of invaluable knowledge is what makes the difference, and sets
them apart from everyday roofers.

You can be confident that any repairs or replacements are in line with the building’s original
character, and meet the legal requirements associated with listed heritage buildings.

So – checking if a property is heritage listed on the NHLE is easy as pie. But regular
maintenance by a heritage roofing specialist can be, too.

Tenterden Roofing has been trusted by countless heritage building owners – including
churches and cottages, public and private properties – to repair, maintain and restore some
of the most important structures in the UK. And we can do the same for you.

Heritage Roofing Since 1984

Get the advice and help you need, from our experienced team of heritage roofing specialists.
For a quote, contact us at [email protected].

How to Protect Kent Peg Roofing from Storms in the UK

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It seems as if the frequency and severity of storms in the UK has gone up, doesn’t it? Either that or there’s just more awareness of it now, through social media and always-on news networks. But there’s no denying that extreme weather and flooding are facts of life for many of us. 

The climates of planet Earth are changing – whether you believe in human-made climate change or not. Climate change is happening, and has been verified by multiple records and sources. And as the climate continues to change, the UK could experience more frequent and severe storms.

That’s not good news for… Well, anybody. And storms are among the least of our worries when it comes to climate change in the long term. But in the short term, homeowners and landlords – especially those with traditional roofing on their properties – can expect greater vulnerability and damage to their roofing.

So, let’s explore the trends and projections of UK storm activity, highlight when storms are most active, and discuss some practical measures to protect Kent peg roofing from storm damage.

Trends and projections for UK storm activity

Recent data from the Met Office indicates a concerning projection for increased storm activity in the UK. And many recent storms have caused significant damage and disruption. Storm Pierrick and storm Kathleen are two of the most recent events that have displaced hundreds, cut power, and posed a significant risk to life – and so far, the 2023/2024 storm season has been the worst since at least 2015, when storms in the UK were first named.

But when is the UK’s storm season, exactly?

UK storm season

The UK storm season begins each year at the end of summer (in September), with the highest frequency of high wind events occurring during autumn and winter months.

To learn more about these trends and future projections, visit the Met Office website.

Protecting Kent peg roofing during storms

All roofing needs attention and maintenance to withstand the impact of severe storms – but Kent peg roofing, as a more artisanal and specialist roofing system, is particularly vulnerable.

Here are some essential tips to protect your Kent peg roof during the worst of the UK storm season.

Get regular Kent Peg tile inspections

Regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage or wear, before the storm season begins. Look for loose or missing Kent peg tiles, damaged flashing and weakened structural components. If you’re not sure what to look for, get a Kent peg roofer out to check for you.

Surrounding trees – are they safe?

If there are trees near your property, be careful of overhanging branches during storms. They can pose a significant threat to your roof, so trim back trees and branches to reduce the risk of damage in high winds.

Clean gutters

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water buildup and drainage issues. This increases the risk of water damage during storms, and the extra weight of water in the guttering can make wind damage even worse. Clean your gutters regularly to keep drainage flowing – and to reduce the risk of damp, rot and mould.

Secure the roof

If you know a storm is approaching, and your most recent inspections have found loose tiles or flashing, it’s up to you to secure them – or at least to mitigate any damage or injury that could be caused by them coming loose in the event of high winds. This includes damage to other properties. If you suspect your roof may be compromised in a storm, warn your neighbours and do what you can to safeguard the rest of your property from damage.

Always check your property after storms

After a storm has passed and you’ve not noticed any leaks – you might think you’ve got away with it. And you may well have. But it’s always a good idea to inspect your roof after every event, to check for any signs of damage. 

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to safeguarding your property against storms.

Stay vigilant, stay prepared – and keep your Kent peg roofing in top condition, with the help of an experienced Kent peg roofer.

Your Local Kent Peg Roofer Since 1984

Get the advice and help you need, from our experienced team of Kent peg roofing specialists. For a quote, contact us at [email protected].

Common issues with heritage roofing and how to solve them

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Owning a period property is a dream for some people. They’re full of unique charm and character, and are almost always set in a beautiful location.

It’s not hard to see the appeal.

Sure, it’s like living in a throwback. But for anyone who’s been in an old cottage or barn, you’ll know the feeling that old buildings evoke.

They feel grounded, permanent, and “real” – and that’s a vanishing commodity in a world of 60 second video loops of influencers dancing for likes from strangers.

But period properties also come with challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining heritage roofing.

Heritage roofing on a period building is, of course, a vitally important structural element – but it’s also a key component in preserving the historical identity and significance of the building. Unfortunately, heritage roofing that is left without inspections or regular maintenance is susceptible to a range of issues that can compromise its functionality, aesthetics and value – if not addressed properly.

So, let’s break down the top heritage roofing issues faced by period property owners, and explore how to solve them.

What are the top roofing challenges faced by period property owners?

Charming though they may be, period properties come from a time long before building regulations. And while typically over-engineered and permanent-feeling, period buildings aren’t indestructible – or impervious to the elements.

The top challenges faced by period property owners are all kind of inter-related, but don’t necessarily stem from one singular issue.

Damp

Damp in older properties can be caused by a ton of things, and diagnosing it takes expertise. Experienced surveyors are well versed in period buildings constructed from all manner of materials – from wattle and daub to Kent peg tiling. But finding the root cause of dampness can be a challenge.

It can be from poor damp coursing at the base of the property, allowing damp to permeate through porous brick, stone – or horsehair-stuffed lathe and plaster! Or, it can be due to water ingress caused by damaged or deteriorating heritage roofing. It can be a combination of things, including unknown leaks or condensation buildup; it can even be from neighbouring properties, or linked to water table activity.

Damp is really problematic, and as hard as it is to diagnose, it’s even harder to resolve. But it really does need to be fixed as soon as possible, because damp leads to rot. And rot is devastating to old buildings.

Heritage roofing needs to be checked for signs of damp regularly, through routine inspections and maintenance.

Rot

Window frames, fascias, sills and doors are very prone to rot due to their constant exposure to rain and temperature fluctuations – and this is easy enough to spot.

But a loft space under heritage roofing is probably seldom seen. Any roofing that isn’t sufficiently breathable can cause damp to build up, causing any natural materials within to rot. A single warm, wet summer can be enough for rot to set in, slowly transforming the once mighty timber holding the roof up into soft, useless fibres.

This has potentially ruinous implications for the structure as a whole, slowly rotting every natural material from the inside out. It’s so important to make sure heritage roofing is sufficiently breathable, as well as free from leaks, to allow moisture to evaporate away.

Mould

Mould is the ugly twin of rot – a terrible health hazard, even in small pockets. Black mould is a particularly toxic species that can grow on wallpaper and plaster when it’s sufficiently damp.

Mould problems are mainly the result of a lack of ventilation and maintenance, but can also arise after renovations that inhibit the property’s natural breathability. Period properties are almost like living, breathing things in that way – and “choking” them with modern building methods can cause damp, rot and problems to spread.

Practical solutions

How can period property owners protect their heritage roofing – and the property as a whole – from these common issues? Let’s look at some practical solutions.

Inspections and maintenance

Regular inspections are a must – even if it’s a non-expert having a look. Damp and mould have a very particular smell, but hopefully, you’ll have noticed any damp by touch long before any smells.

Ideally, a trained heritage roofing specialist will be making regular trips to your property, to carry out routine maintenance. This will make sure that any potential issues are identified early on, and addressed before they become major problems.

Sticking to conservation conventions

Typically, historic buildings in England are not obligated to adhere to building regulations. But sadly, sticking to conservation guidelines is not always possible. It’s very complex, and taken on a case-by-case basis, but generally, if the property is to undergo significant renovations or a change in usage, that might trigger modern regulations to apply. 

Wherever possible, seek period-correct, conservation-grade suppliers and tradespeople – like the friendly, expert team at Tenterden Roofing.

Heritage Roofing Since 1984

Get the advice and help you need, from our experienced team of heritage roofing specialists. For a quote, contact us at [email protected].

How often should you have a listed building roof inspection?

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Listed buildings are our shared key to the past. 

And preserving them should be paramount. Why? Because our environment changes how we see ourselves, and how we experience our past. Losing them to unnecessary waste and destruction would cost us so much more than just money. It would cost culture, knowledge – joy.

Beautiful buildings are important. They even have a measurable impact on how we feel.

 

Read more: Why do we need to preserve historic buildings?

 

But keeping our historic buildings in shape isn’t always easy. More frequent extreme weather events are making buildings more vulnerable – and roofs are one of the most prone areas to damage in extreme weather.

So, it stands to reason that a crucial aspect of listed building maintenance is regular roof inspections. But why do they matter – and how often should they be carried out?

Importance of regular roof inspections for listed properties

Listed building roof inspections matter, because they are the first line of defence against rain, water ingress and the onset of damp. It’s not just the unique designs or the specialist materials that need to be considered – it’s the function that comes first.

Regular inspections help to identify and address issues before they escalate into building-wide problems.

Weather exposure, ageing, natural settling and structural shifts can pick away at the roof of a listed building over time – but routine inspections allow for early detection of these potentially damaging factors. And a little goes a long way.

The result? Property owners can prevent costly repairs and preserve the building’s longevity for generations to come.

But safety is a factor, too. A well-maintained roof keeps the people inside and outside the building safe from falling debris. Regular inspections help identify hazards like loose tiles and slates, and can get a jump on structural collapses long before they happen.

In short – it’s vital stuff.

But how often should listed buildings be inspected for roofing issues?

Frequency of listed building roof inspections

Well.. it depends.

How often you should get a roof inspection for a listed building depends on the age, condition and construction of the roof.

As a very general rule, it’s recommended to have a thorough inspection at least every 3 years. For some roofing types, particularly thatch (which is not one of our specialisms, but it bears mentioning), should be inspected once a year. They can be prone to all sorts of problems, like infestations and rot, which are typically quicker to onset.

But some things may warrant more immediate assessments – like renovations being done elsewhere on the building, loft conversions, or particularly bad weather that could have damaged the roof.

Inspection, assessment and repairs

So, who does the inspection? Qualified professionals; specialist historic building surveyors, conservation architects, or period roofing specialists like ourselves should be the ones carrying out listed building roof inspections. 

There’s a level of knowledge and expertise needed to identify potential issues, and not everyone has access to this kind of knowledge or experience. In our case, we’d carry out a thorough and detailed review, before recommending appropriate remedial actions – all while adhering to conservation guidelines.

And prompt action is really critical here.

Moving too slowly can lead to further damage, which is often more widespread and more difficult to repair. 

Hiring a specialist in listed building roof repairs is really the only way to resolve problems, too. 

Not every builder or roofer has experience working with historic structures. And even those that do aren’t always aware of the unique challenges of every historic roofing type. 

Take Kent peg roofing, as an example. It dates back to Roman England – making it an ancient roofing method – but despite the rudimentary nature of this roofing solution, getting it right is no mean feat.

When selecting a roofer to carry out inspections and repairs, make sure they are accredited or recognised as fully trained (we are CITB registered). Make sure they’re knowledgeable about conservation practices – and capable of carrying out period-correct roof repairs in the real world.

Preserving the roof of a listed building takes diligence and expertise.

With regular inspections and proactive maintenance, we can keep our roofs (and the buildings they protect) in beautiful condition – so that the next generation can love them, learn from them, and live with them.

Listed Building Roof Repairs Since 1984

Get listed building roof repairs from experienced period roofing specialists. We come armed with the necessary tools, techniques, and training to get an exceptional result. For a quote, contact us at [email protected]. 

Why Don’t We Build Houses Like The Old Days Anymore?

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Well – we actually do. There are plenty of new build properties out there, built with traditional methods and materials. Shakespeare’s Globe is just one western example. And elsewhere, ancient building methods using mud and wood are still used to this day.

But the question is mostly aimed at houses, specifically the ones we’re used to seeing in suburbs and cities. There’s a stark contrast between the old, established Victorian and Georgian homes, the brutal yet functional homes of the mid 1900s, and the “uncanny valleys” of seemingly copied and pasted new build estates.

To some of us, older means better. To others, it means damp, and built without fire regulations considered. The truth is, all kinds of homes are perfectly fine – and we can choose for ourselves what we love. It’s okay to like new builds, and to live in them without having to do much maintenance. It’s okay to like older houses, and to enjoy fixing them up.

Nobody’s wrong. But.. yes, there’s a but – historical preservation matters. And design matters. 

And design extends beyond the way something looks, into how it works.

So, this brings us to the reasons why modern buildings often win out over old fashioned ones. Number one – cost.

Old methods are expensive

Before World War II, the cost to build a home could be broken down into something like 80% spent on materials and 20% labour (not exactly; this is just a rough idea to illustrate a point).

That figure has now all but flipped on its head. Rising labour costs brought better living standards – but to make buildings affordable, engineers, architects and builders looked for cheaper, faster ways to make homes.

Modern materials and techniques are far cheaper, and sometimes far better than the old ways of building. However, there seems to have been a runaway effect of mass-produced boxes masquerading as homes, which have cheapened the craft in more ways than one – and left property developers and builders with a less than stellar reputation…

This is because, no matter what materials and techniques are used, it is design that matters the most.

Design still matters

We’ve seen some beautiful modern new builds, built in a sympathetic style to their surroundings. We’ve even seen whole estates that look like old streets – with meandering lanes and cobblestones, open green spaces, and materials that match the local area.

Some developers really do try.

The issue is the ones that have clearly put profit above all else, converting a tiny bit of land into as many homes as is possible within the limits of the law. Near-windowless properties, gardens that back onto each other – not a hint of privacy, nor the freedom to make a sound for fear of it travelling through the paper-thin walls.

This isn’t simply a materials problem. It’s design. It’s planning.

It’s shameful.

But the principles of old design can live with new materials. They can live with old materials, too..

Can period roofing really be integrated into new builds or modern extensions?

Yes! Integrating the best of modern buildings with the best of old is probably one of the clearest ways forward when it comes to solving the “cookie cutter housing” issue.

There’s no doubt that modern homes are faster to build, cheaper, more energy efficient – and even safer – than older homes. But they can lack heart and charm, and can destroy the whole look and feel of the area they’re built in.

Merging the two is a Goldilocks situation. We’ve had the privilege of extending old homes with old period roofing – built upon a structure that superficially matches the old home, but has all the benefits of modern wiring, plumbing and insulation.

And on the flip side, it’s posse to start from scratch, with a period roof built upon modern materials and designs – for the best of both.

It’s all about balancing tradition, heritage, longevity, economics, safety and privacy. But when it comes to period roofing, it can be a major win for an area facing development.

Period roofing on modern builds

Period roofing on modern properties can help preserve the surrounding area’s history and charm. It pays homage to the historical aesthetics that make an area attractive – but also serves as a bridge between the past and the future.

And the future is unstoppable. We face a growing population, and a seemingly never ending shortage of homes for us all.

Finding a balance between the charm of the old days and the practicality of modern building practices might just be the key to creating better homes and shared spaces, as we push ahead into the decades to come.

Period Roofing Specialist since 1984

Hire an experienced period roofing specialist with the necessary tools, techniques and training to get an exceptional result. To get a quote, contact us at [email protected]. 

The Materials Used By Kent Peg Roofers

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Kent peg roofing can be summed up in two words: tradition and craftsmanship. At times these days, it can feel as if both are in short supply.

As we all know by now, Kent peg tiles are crafted from clay – but what else do Kent peg roofers use when building or restoring a heritage roof?

Traditionally, wooden pegs secure Kent peg tiles in place. These two materials (clay and wood) are the core of a traditionally made Kent peg tiled roof. But the art of Kent peg roofing extends beyond wood and clay. Today, a blend of traditional techniques and modern elements are used. This makes traditional roofing look the part, with a longer lifespan and better outcomes for customers, properties – and the environment.

Traditional materials – clay tiles and wooden pegs

The main event is the Kent peg tile itself. These tiles are traditionally handcrafted from clay, giving them their signature “imperfectly perfect” shaping and colour variation.

As well as the tiles, wooden pegs are an integral component used by Kent peg roofers. Wooden pegs are used to secure the clay tiles in place. Traditionally, these pegs would be made from oak or chestnut, chosen for their durability and resistance to decay, as well as their abundance around Southern England. Each peg is carefully handcrafted to ensure a snug fit with the tiles.

Modern additions

While these traditional materials are the staple of a Kent peg roofer’s materials list, modern equivalents are occasionally used for practical reasons – unless the job specifically calls for period-correct works. The use of modern materials is purely for longevity and compliance, and does not impact the look and feel of the roof.

For example, In some instances, stainless steel nails are used to secure the clay tiles instead of wooden pegs. Stainless steel nails offer exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity of the roofing system, and are impervious to rot and damp.

Breathable membranes might also be used in properties where moisture is a recurring problem. These membranes work as a protective barrier against condensation, while keeping warmth in and rain out.

 

Is a “hybrid roof” like this authentic?

Authenticity comes from the traditional methods used, as much as the materials. After all, if our ancestors had easy access to the materials we have now, we can be certain they’d be using it to make their roofing, too!

But with that said, we go a long way to make sure what we do is right and as authentic as possible.

To maintain authenticity, we Kent peg roofers will aim to source handcrafted Kent peg tiles for all projects. For aged properties, we’ll use reclaimed materials to maintain the historical integrity of the property, and to match any existing parts of the roof that are not being worked on.

This can be a pretty painstaking process, and may involve salvaging Kent peg tiles and wooden pegs from old roofs, or seeking out specialist suppliers. Sourcing materials for Kent peg roofing can vary, based on the project’s requirements and the commitment to authenticity, and also the availability of period-correct materials.

If we can’t get them through salvage or from known suppliers, we to turn to highly skilled tile crafters – those who have honed their skills through generations. Kent peg tile artisans can produce tiles that are eerily close to the real thing, using local clays – even using the same kilns, temperatures and fuels.

The results are as good as perfect recreations of a brand new tile from 500 years ago. New Old Stock, if you will.

If the restoration is partial, these “new” tiles can also be artificially weathered, with a highly convincing patina applied tastefully that will better fit the rest of the roof.

Traditional techniques

In period-specific roofing projects, the use of wooden pegs remains a common practice. These pegs are often crafted by hand and fitted with precision. This meticulous approach ensures that the roof retains its historical character.

Authenticity is at the heart of what we do, and we’ll go to great lengths to make sure we achieve it – through materials, techniques and even our no-nonsense customer service.

Seasoned Kent peg roofers will carefully evaluate the specific needs of each roofing project, to balance tradition and preservation with practicality. 

Our aim is to craft a roof that stands the test of time, and honours the rich history and tradition of Kent peg roofing.

Specialist Kent Peg Roofer

Heritage properties and specialist builds need the right roofer. We’re one of the UK’s only traditional roofing specialists – still using time-honoured techniques and materials. To get a quote for a Kent peg roofer, contact us at [email protected]. 

Roof Repairs: What Can Go Wrong with Kent Peg Tiles?

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Kent peg tiles are beautiful, hardwearing and good for the environment. But like any other roofing material, Kent peg tiles are not totally indestructible or free of problems. Things can (and do) go wrong with Kent peg roofs – even with proper care and maintenance.

Let’s go over the common reasons we’re called in for Kent peg tile roof repairs, problems you might encounter, and why maintaining your Kent peg tiled roof is so important.

Common Kent Peg tiled roof failures

Storm damage

All roofing, Ket peg or otherwise, is susceptible to storm damage. High winds are the main culprit, and storms that are strong enough to blow down fences are likely to pick off some roof tiles on your street, too.

The fact that Kent peg tiles overlap and are nailed down means that they have a fair amount of resilience in the wind – but they’re not indestructible. A powerful storm can dislodge tiles, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks and water damage. Inspecting your roof after a storm is so important, and can save you a lot of hassle and damage down the line.

Insurers do cover storm damage, but only if a roof is well maintained. If your insurance company can prove that the root cause of failure is lack of maintenance or wear and tear (basically, that the roof was essentially done for in the event of a storm, and no attempt was made to secure it) – then cover may be declined.

Frost damage

Old England is no stranger to the cold. And frost can pose a significant threat to Kent peg tiled roofing.

Although the natural clay that Kent peg tiles are made from is a brilliant waterproofing material, it is slightly porous – so it does absorb a small amount of water, particularly on the weather-facing side.

When the water absorbed by the clay freezes, it expands. Over the course of a winter, repeated freezing and thawing can stress the material, weakening it, and causing the outer layers of the tile to crack off. Over time, this can compromise the roof’s ability to shed water effectively.

Regular inspections in the colder months can help you identify any potential frost damage, so you can repair the roof in good time.

Rusted nails

Rusty nails are super tricky to identify, because they’re hidden away. But a failed nail can lead to a domino effect of issues – literally! One falling tile can take others with it, damaging the roof on the way down. Inspecting and replacing rusted nails is a part of routine maintenance that should not be overlooked, but it takes a professional to get up there and check things out.

Treated nails can be used, as well as aluminium nails – and while not traditional, remember that these tiles used to be secured with wooden pegs (hence the name), which were far less sturdy than nails!

It’s not all exclusive to Kent peg tiled roofs…

It’s important to note that many of the problems discussed here are not unique to Kent peg tiles. Storm damage, frost damage, and rusted nails can affect plenty of other roofing materials. This just highlights how important it is to get your roof checked over by someone who knows period and heritage roofing well – and to have maintenance carried out by a properly trained professional.

The power of maintenance

How do you stop your roof failing? Well, you can’t stop the forces of nature… But the answer to this question is always regular maintenance. Powerful storms might still do a number on your property – but to even stand a chance of getting your buildings insurance to cover it, the roof has to be in good shape, assessed by a professional, with a receipt to prove it.

 

Choosing a Kent peg roofer who specialises in the maintenance of these unique tiles is your best bet.

 

So there you have it; prevention is better than the cure!

Specialist Kent Peg roof tile repairs

Tenterden Roofing is a heritage-grade Kent peg roofer, providing Kent peg roof tile repairs. Contact us for a quote at [email protected]. 

Why is Slate Used for Roofing?

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Slate is a gorgeous building material. It looks so good, even on newer properties. And it’s
massively satisfying to work with (when you’re experienced with it, at least!).

Slate roofing has built quite a reputation for itself – which we suppose is to be expected of a
material used since ancient times. Slate roofing boasts exceptional durability, a timeless
beauty and overall reliability unmatched by even the most advanced modern materials.
So what is it about slate that makes it such a great building material? Why is slate commonly
used for roofing, and where does it come from? We explore its origins, benefits, drawbacks –
and the importance of professional slate roofing installation.

What is slate and where does it come from?

Slate is a natural stone, made in the Earth’s crust over millions of years. It’s formed when
layers of sedimentary rock are subjected to the intense pressure and heat found deep
underground.
It starts life as mineral-rich clay in waterways, which gets buried deeper and deeper over
time by building erosion and soil deposits. The layering of minerals is what creates the
unique layered structure of slate – but this also means it is isolated to specific geographies.
In the UK, Wales is celebrated for its slate, and so is Cornwall – but 90% of slate in Europe
comes from Spain.

Historical applications of slate roofing

Slate roofing tiles date back hundreds of years, and as a general building material, it has
been recognised since ancient times. Even the Romans built structures using slate.
Historically, slate’s natural beauty, relative scarcity and requirement for skilled labour meant
that it was reserved for castles and churches – but wherever slate was abundant, it could be
found in roofing.

Why is slate so good as a roofing material?

The benefits of slate roofing include:

● Long lifespan (centuries!)
● Low maintenance
● Resistant to fire, rot, mould and infestations
● Natural beauty
● Inert, reusable and low waste

Slate is highly resistant to weathering and tarnish, and can easily withstand harsh weather
over decades. Slow water absorption makes slate less susceptible to freeze/thaw stressing
and thermal shock – and thanks to its layered structure, water runs off it easily. It’s fire
resistant, mould resistant, and with proper installation and maintenance, slate roofing can
last for literally hundreds of years.

Looks

Maybe we’re biased, but natural slate does have a timeless beauty to it. It’s imperfectly
perfect, with variations in colour and texture that makes the roofing look like a natural
extension of the landscape.

Inert, low waste material
Slate is all natural and inert – meaning it won’t do any environmental harm. And its long life
makes it less likely to fail and need replacement than other materials, so it’s quite
ecologically sound in that respect, too. Yes, it’s quarried, and that has an impact on nature,
but it’s also recyclable and reusable, and it holds its value even when used or salvaged.
But like everything, slate does have downsides.

The downsides of slate roofing
Slate takes millions of years to form, so it’s not renewable – and mining it is invasive. It’s
also quite a lot more expensive than artificial materials, due to the relative rarity of it
compared to, say, clay tiles or concrete roofing.
It’s also heavy. Well, it is rock after all. This requires proper structural support – not just in
the roof, but throughout the building. It’s not always possible to fit slate roofing to a building
not designed with it in mind.
Slate can also chip and break during installation and maintenance – which highlights the
next point; the need for expert slate roofing specialists.
Installing and caring for a slate roof requires specialised knowledge and skills. It’s heavy and
fragile, and you’ve got to understand how it interacts with the rest of a building. Slate

definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted – but at Tenterden Roofing, it’s one of our favourite
materials to work with.

Slate Roofing Experts since 1984

Hire experienced slate roofing specialists with the necessary tools, techniques and training
to get an exceptional result. To get a quote, contact us at [email protected].

Can Any Roofer Work on a Listed Building?

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Working in or living in a historic building is a special kind of privilege. Being so closely tied to
history, and the feeling you get just from being inside such an important place – you really
don’t get that in a new build.

But Grade I and Grade II listed buildings don’t come without baggage. And when it comes to
roofing work on a listed building, things can get tricky. Finding the right roofer for the job can
be hard, especially with so many old-fashioned skills and trades becoming extinct.
So – can any roofer work on a listed building?

Technically, yes. But…

Some listed building roofing repairs or maintenance jobs could require Listed Building
Consent – which is granted by the council that governs the building’s area.

Your council might ask that archaeological contractors or heritage roofing specialists
be used, depending on the building’s status and historical significance, or the scope and
method of works. Listed buildings in the UK are protected by law – and this includes roofing
repair and replacement.

Listed Building Consent (LBC) is required if you want to;
● Alter or extend a listed building in a way that affects its character or appearance
● Demolish the building
● Make structural changes, including to the roof
LBC may be required if you want to;
● Carry out essential repairs and maintenance, depending on the method, scale and
intensity of works

This document from Historic England explaining LBC contains useful information about when
and why you would need to get Listed Building Consent.

Be aware – carrying out unauthorised works to a listed building is a criminal offence.
Individuals can be prosecuted, and your planning authority can insist that all work carried out
without consent is reversed.

So, the first thing you should do before anything else is to speak to your local council’s
planning authority (unless it’s an emergency and remedial works are immediately required –
that’s an insurance call!).

While LBC is a legal requirement, using a specialist roofer on a listed building is not. Your
council can ask that you hire a period roofer, but you won’t be required to by law, as long as
the other criteria are met.

Still, it makes perfect sense to choose a roofer who knows about working on listed buildings,
and has experience in heritage roofing.

The benefits of hiring a listed building roof specialist

You’d be wise to use a heritage roofing specialist for maintaining and repairing like-for-like
– not just because it’ll fly better with your planning application, but it’ll likely help you save
money and preserve the building.

A specialist roofer with experience working on heritage buildings will have specific
knowledge of the unique challenges that may arise with these types of structures. They’ll
have access to traditional materials, and well-honed techniques that will have been passed
down from generation to generation. They’ll also know how to comply with LBC, as well as
modern regulations – which gives you the best of both worlds.

A local roofer without access to the same traditional knowledge, materials and skills will
either sub-contract the work to someone who does have experience (at a marked up cost),
or learn on the fly – which is costly and risky.

By going straight to an expert, you get around all of that.

Listed Building Roofers since 1984

Tenterden Roofing is a heritage roofing specialist, based in Kent. Check out our latest work on Instagram and contact us for a quote at [email protected].