Protect the shell

Yes — matching is part of the job, not an afterthought. We bring sample pieces to your property and source slates or tiles that match in type, colour, size and texture, so a repaired or re-roofed section blends with the original roof rather than standing out. On period properties this matters both visually and for planning, since conservation officers often require like-for-like materials. Where exact matches are no longer manufactured, we source reclaimed alternatives or compatible modern equivalents and agree the choice with you before ordering.

Yes. Properly dressed and walked leadwork, installed to the correct code and weathered correctly, is guaranteed against leaks by us, and we also guarantee the surrounding flashings, chases and abutments. Lead is a naturally self-healing material when worked correctly, which is why it remains the standard for critical junctions on period roofs — but only if it is the right grade, the right thickness and installed by someone who knows how to dress it. We include leadwork in our 10-year guarantee as standard.

Absolutely — and in fact we strongly recommend it. Any roof work that needs doing should be completed before conversion work begins, so you have a dry, secure shell to work inside. Trying to do roof repairs or renewals mid-conversion is far more disruptive, more expensive and risks damaging new interior finishes. We coordinate the sequencing so roofing is completed first, then the conversion build proceeds without interruption.

Yes. We organise scaffolding — including any public highway notifications if the scaffold needs to encroach onto the pavement — and we handle the insurance notifications that are required before works start. On terraced streets in particular, scaffolding often needs to span across neighbouring properties, and we manage the neighbour permissions and the structural engineer's certificate for the temporary structure.

Well-maintained leadwork typically lasts 50 to 100 years, which is why it remains the standard on period and listed properties despite its higher upfront cost. Alternatives such as zinc or copper last around 30 to 50 years and can look excellent on modern or conservation-area projects, but they do not always match the aesthetic of a Victorian or Edwardian roof. We will advise on the most appropriate material for your property type, budget and planning context rather than pushing one option.

Yes, and we strongly recommend it. A roof survey identifies hidden problems — degraded felt, rotten rafters, inadequate purlins, failed flashings — that could affect the scope, cost and timeline of a conversion once the roof is opened up. Carrying out a survey first means you know the full picture before you commit to design work and planning applications, and it means any structural strengthening can be budgeted for from the start rather than discovered as an expensive surprise mid-build.