Heritage Roofing In East Sussex
Preserving the Past, Protecting the Future...

Restoring a listed building isn't like fixing a standard roof. It takes specialist knowledge, the right materials, and an understanding of conservation requirements. That's what we do at Clarke Roofing.

Based in Eastbourne, we've worked on Grade I and II listed properties across East Sussex for years, from medieval churches in the Downs to Georgian townhouses in Lewes, Victorian villas along the coast, and timber-framed cottages in the Weald.

What We Do

Our NFRC-accredited team handles the full range of heritage roofing work. We work with natural slate, handmade clay tiles, traditional peg systems, and milled lead. Where needed, we install period-appropriate rainwater systems in cast iron, copper, or zinc, and carry out repairs to stonework, timber shingles, and decorative features.

Our leadwork team holds Lead Contractors Association accreditation. We're also CHAS certified, ISO accredited, and members of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB).

We use aerial drone surveys to assess roof conditions without scaffolding every building first. It gives us accurate data and helps us plan restorations properly from the start.

Projects Across East Sussex

One example: Hamsey Church, a medieval building near Lewes showing significant weathering. The project involved renewing the Nave and Chancel roofs using new Aldershaw tiles, salvaged peg tiles, and reclaimed Horsham stone. Each piece was recorded and relaid to preserve the church's original character.

The challenges? Working around protected bat colonies, no mains power or water on site, and replacing deteriorated oak timbers with precision-matched materials. The restoration earned recognition from the Sussex Heritage Trust.

We've completed similar projects in Newhaven, Uckfield, Rye, and across the South Downs, working with local planning authorities and conservation officers who know these buildings as well as we do.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

East Sussex has a unique mix of building styles. Wealden hall houses use materials you won't find in coastal towns. Conservation areas in Battle, Alfriston, and Winchelsea each have their own requirements. Rother and Lewes districts approach listed building consents differently.

We know this because we work here. We understand which materials perform well in coastal salt air, where to source reclaimed Horsham stone, and how to navigate Listed Building Consent applications with local authorities.

It means fewer delays, better material choices, and restorations that actually suit the building and its setting.

How We Work

Every project starts with a proper assessment, drone survey and hands-on inspection. We identify what's failing and why, then develop a restoration plan.

We work with your architect, surveyor, and conservation officer to get the necessary approvals. Then our team carries out the work using traditional methods and materials that match the property's original construction, reclaimed Welsh slate, handmade clay tiles, milled lead.

Once the roof structure is sound, we finish with appropriate details: timber repairs, ventilation improvements, decorative elements, quality rainwater goods. We also offer maintenance packages to keep everything in good condition long-term.

We don't ask for deposits. Our quotations are detailed and transparent, and we manage every aspect of the project from survey to scaffold removal.

Who We Work With

We're a family-run company working with homeowners, parish councils, diocesan authorities, The National Trust, architects, and conservation officers across Sussex.

Our clients value reliable communication and respect for historic buildings. Whether it's a private cottage or a public landmark, we approach every project with the same care.

Get Started

If you're planning a heritage roof restoration, we can help. Contact us for a detailed quotation, or to arrange an aerial inspection and site survey.

No deposit required. Clear pricing. Work that meets conservation standards and lasts.