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Clarke Roofing carried out re-roofing works at Ashurst Wood Primary School in West Sussex, replacing the tiled roof over the section that looks onto the main playground. Starting in summer 2023, the project covered a full strip and re-tile to a Redland SpecMaster Specification using Redland Rosemary Clay Classic tiles, new rainwater goods, re-covering of eight dormer roofs, internal ceiling repairs, and works carried out under the supervision of a licensed bat ecologist.
Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd were appointed to re-roof a section of Ashurst Wood Primary School in West Sussex, focusing on the part of the building that overlooks the main playground. The works got under way in summer 2023 and involved the complete removal and replacement of the existing tiled roof coverings, along with the rainwater goods, the school's eight dormer roofs, and repairs to ceilings inside that had been affected by water getting in. Working on a primary school site brings its own set of demands, and on this job there was an added layer of responsibility, as the building was home to a protected bat population. That meant the whole project had to be planned and delivered in step with strict wildlife protection requirements.
A school roof in this condition needs more than a straightforward re-tile. The existing covering over the playground elevation had come to the end of its life, and water had already found its way through in places, damaging ceilings below. Those internal areas had to be put right as part of the same programme rather than left for later.
The bigger consideration was the presence of bats. Bats and their roosts are protected by law, so the work could not simply proceed on the roofer's timetable. Every stage had to follow approved methods, use approved materials, and stay within the timescales and conditions set out for bat conservation. Getting this wrong is not an option, both for legal reasons and for the welfare of the colony, so the job called for careful coordination from start to finish.
The existing tiled roof coverings over the playground section were stripped off and fully replaced. A new roofing system was built up using fresh roofing membranes, treated battens, and clay tiles, all installed to a Redland SpecMaster Specification. The tiles chosen were Redland Rosemary Clay Classic tiles and matching fittings, selected so the finished roof would sit comfortably alongside the rest of the building while improving how the roof performs and how long it lasts.
All of the associated rainwater goods, the gutters and downpipes, were taken off and renewed at the same time. Replacing these alongside the roof covering keeps drainage working as it should and protects the building from water damage over the long term.
The works also took in the school's eight dormer roofs. The coverings on each dormer were stripped and replaced, including the side cheeks, so the dormers were brought up to the same standard as the main roof rather than being patched around.
Inside the building, the areas of ceiling that had suffered from previous water ingress were dealt with. The damaged sections of original lath and plaster were carefully removed and replaced with modern plasterboard, in line with current building standards.
Throughout the project, every activity was carried out in full compliance with statutory wildlife protection regulations. A licensed bat ecologist supervised the works, making sure all methods and materials were approved and that the programme stayed within the timescales and conditions set by bat conservation requirements.
Ashurst Wood Primary School now has a re-roofed playground elevation finished to a Redland SpecMaster Specification, with new clay tiles, new battens and membranes, renewed rainwater goods, and eight re-covered dormer roofs. The ceilings affected by water ingress have been repaired and brought up to current standards, and the whole job was completed in full accordance with the wildlife protection conditions that applied to the site. It is a good example of how careful planning lets demanding works go ahead on a sensitive, occupied building without cutting corners on quality or compliance.
Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd is a third-generation, family-run roofing, construction, and heritage restoration company based in Eastbourne, East Sussex. With over 75 years of experience, we work across the South East for a wide range of clients including homeowners, schools, local authorities, architects, and The National Trust.
Our services include tiling, slating, flat roofing, and heritage and restoration roofing. We also offer construction work such as barn conversions, rooflights, brickwork, carpentry and joinery, and decoration, as well as dedicated domestic and commercial roofing, and full project management.
Clarke Roofing are accredited by the NFRC, Constructionline Gold, CHAS, TrustMark, the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA), and the Lead Contractors Association, among others. We are also approved contractors for Langley, Sika, Bauder, BMI, IKO, and Garland. All new projects and re-roofs carry a minimum 10-year guarantee.
To discuss a project or request a quotation, get in touch.