Office Hours 8am-5pm Yard Deliveries / Sales 7am-4pm

Case Study
Private Residence in Crowborough

Clarke Roofing completed a comprehensive re-roof of a six-bedroom Arts & Crafts property in Crowborough suffering from widespread tile failure and water ingress. The project preserved the building's distinctive swept valleys and vertical tile hanging while installing new Tudor Jubilee tiles, lead flashings, insulation, and fascias. Executed by NFRC heritage-approved craftsmen to BS5534 standards, the work successfully maintained the property's period character while delivering a weathertight, low-maintenance roof.

Project Overview

Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd was commissioned to undertake a comprehensive re-roofing project on a substantial six-bedroom Arts & Crafts style property in Crowborough. Built by Conners between 1900 and 1929, this three-storey brick residence with third storey accommodation in the loft spans 5,500 square feet of internal space and presented unique heritage roofing challenges.

The Challenge

The property was experiencing widespread tile failure across all elevations, resulting in water ingress in several areas. Following a detailed site inspection, Clarke Roofing provided an in-depth survey and comprehensive quotation for the complete renewal of the main roof elevations. The client's primary concerns were to maintain the property's original character, preserve the distinctive swept valleys and cheek details, and ensure the new roof would require only routine maintenance for years to come, eliminating the need for major future works.

Scope of Works

The project involved a complete re-roof of the property, encompassing:

  • Complete removal and replacement of all existing roof coverings
  • Reinstatement of all swept valleys and abutments to precisely match the existing architectural detail
  • Installation of lead soakers and flashings to chimney stacks
  • Code 6 lead roof coverings on the side elevation abutting two dormers
  • Vertical tile hanging to the front main elevation
  • Comprehensive insulation works to flat roof areas, skeilings, dormer cheeks, and Ashlar walls
  • Fascia and soffit replacement throughout the property, excluding newer low-level areas

After careful consideration of sample tiles provided through Tudor Roof Tiles, the client selected the Jubilee range for the pitched roof areas, ensuring an authentic period appearance whilst providing modern performance standards.

Technical Execution

The property featured a substantial roof area with numerous architectural details that distinguished it from standard roof designs. The swept valleys represented a particularly complex element requiring specialist heritage skills. Our craftsmen took meticulous care to ensure the tile coursing within the swept sections remained consistent and aligned perfectly with the adjacent tiling. Timber valley boards were precisely installed beneath to form the sweep and provide correct fixing points for the tile courses.

The vertical tile hanging to the front elevation presented an especially intricate detail where the main roof swept seamlessly into the tile hanging. Our team paid particular attention to maintaining consistent coursing and gauging between these two aspects. The mix of tiles on the tile hanging was carefully selected and laid to provide a flawless transition from the existing to the new work, ensuring the completed project appeared as one cohesive whole.

Quality and Expertise

This project was executed by Clarke Roofing's highly skilled team, including an NVQ Level 3 Heritage Tiler and NVQ Level 2 Slater and Tiler, supported by experienced labourers. All works were carried out in full compliance with BS5534 standards, ensuring the highest quality workmanship throughout.

The completed project successfully preserved the Arts & Crafts character of this distinguished property whilst providing a robust, weathertight roof system that will protect the building for generations to come.

About Clarke Roofing

With over 70 years of experience, Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd is a leading specialist roofing contractor based in Eastbourne, serving the South East of England. We provide comprehensive roofing services including heritage restoration, slating, tiling, flat roofing, leadwork, and specialist metalwork. Our NFRC heritage-approved and LCA-accredited craftsmen work on listed buildings, historic properties, and domestic projects for private clients, architects, local authorities, and The National Trust. All projects come with a minimum 10-year guarantee.