Historic Roof Restoration Project in Nonnington, Kent
Download a copy of this complete heritage roof restoration case study here.
Client: Diocese of Canterbury
Location: The Living Well Vicarage, Nonnington, Kent
Project Type: Complete heritage roof restoration
Building Period: Victorian/Edwardian
The Challenge
The Diocese of Canterbury approached us directly after struggling to find a contractor with the specialised expertise required for heritage building restoration. Having discovered our work online, they recognised our commitment to traditional building techniques and conservation principles.
The Living Well Vicarage presented a complex restoration challenge with multiple structural and weatherproofing issues that required immediate attention to prevent further deterioration of this historic building.
Our Approach to Conservation Roofing Projects
- Protection and Preparation
We began by erecting a comprehensive temporary roof system to protect the building structure throughout the restoration process, ensuring the vicarage remained weatherproof during the extensive works.
- Careful Deconstruction
The existing roof was methodically stripped, with particular attention paid to salvaging reusable materials. We successfully recovered approximately 20% of the original tiles for reuse, maintaining the building’s authentic character while reducing waste.
- Structural Improvements
The roof featured traditional Victorian/Edwardian boarding, which we enhanced with a counter-batten system. The crucial detail:
- Improves water run-off and prevents damming
- Enhances ventilation between boarding and battens
- Reduces condensation risk through improved air circulation
- Modern Breathable Technology
We installed a new breathable membrane over the counter-battens, providing essential weather protection while maintaining the building’s ability to breathe naturally.
- Precision Re-battening
New roof battens were installed to the correct gauge, addressing the previous installation’s inadequate spacing that had contributed to the roof’s failure.
Materials and Techniques
Tile Selection
We sourced approximately 4,000 carefully matched second-hand tiles to complement the salvaged originals, ensuring visual continuity and authentic appearance.
Traditional Lime Mortar Pointing
All pointing work utilised lime mortar throughout, maintaining the building’s breathability and allowing for natural movement – essential for heritage buildings.
Specialist Tradition Roofing Details
The project featured several complex traditional elements:
- Tiled Soffit: Restored using traditional techniques
- Double Under Cloak Detail: Carefully reconstructed to original specifications
- Chimney Work: Comprehensive spot-pointing in lime mortar
Lead Work Renewal
All chimneys received new rolled lead sheet installations, replacing the deteriorated lead work that had reached the end of its serviceable life.
Results
The completed restoration successfully:
- Eliminated water ingress through improved weatherproofing
- Enhanced structural integrity with proper batten spacing
- Maintained authentic appearance through careful material matching
- Improved building breathability with traditional lime mortar
- Secured long-term weather protection with new lead work
Heritage Roofing Expertise
This project highlights our commitment to conservation principles and traditional building techniques. Our approach ensures that historic buildings like The Living Well Vicarage are restored to the highest standards while preserving their authentic character for future generations.
The Diocese of Canterbury’s confidence in our heritage roofing expertise demonstrates our reputation for delivering exceptional results on heritage projects, where traditional skills and extensive roofing conservation knowledge are essential to a successful project outcome.
