The roof is one of the largest and most noticeable features of a building. The choice of roofing material makes a great difference to the aesthetic impact of the whole structure.
Roofing will be made using local, sustainably sourced materials when possible. In East Anglia, Cambridgeshire tiles, made in Burwell, are a good choice. Where local materials are not available or suitable, Welsh slate can be used.
Work on an old building often involves repairing or replacing the roof. We always endeavour to keep as much of the original structure as possible. We will try to re-use reclaimed roofing materials from the site, or from elsewhere, to match the existing roof.
Modifications to a roof offer opportunities for improving the insulation of a building. Heat loss through an uninsulated roof may account for around 25% of the energy lost by a building.
Alternative roofing materials include metal - typically teel, zinc, lead or copper - and concrete. A cement asbestos roof has asbestos fibres fixed in cement and is not a health risk if it is in good condition as the fibres do not escape. Disposal or repair of asbestos roofing requires expert handling.
Natural roofing materials include tile, wood shingles, thatch and slate. In some cases, a living, green roof can be created, planting sedum or other plants on the roof.