FAQs.

Answers to the questions we're asked most often, on heritage work, construction, developments and roofing. If your question isn't here, get in touch.

Common questions.

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What areas do you cover?

We are based in Ilfracombe and work across North Devon including Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Woolacombe, Croyde, Appledore, Mortehoe, Combe Martin, Berrynarbour and Exmoor. We also take on projects further afield for the right job.

What size projects do you take on?

All sizes, from smaller domestic renovations to high-value new builds and commercial projects. We will always be straight with you about whether a project is the right fit.

Do you use subcontractors?

We handle the majority of our work in house. Where specialist trades are needed we work with a trusted network of contractors we have built long standing relationships with over the years.

What is the difference between lime mortar and cement?

Lime mortar is softer, more flexible and breathable than cement. It lets moisture move through a wall and evaporate, which is essential on older buildings. Cement traps moisture, which causes damp and can crack and erode historic stone and brick. Lime is almost always the correct choice on buildings built before 1919.

How long does a flat roof last?

A modern flat roof lasts far longer than the old felt roofs it replaced. Our Polyroof systems carry a design life of more than 30 years and insurance-backed guarantees of 10 to 20 years. Lifespan depends on the system, the deck beneath it and how well water drains off the roof.

What warranty comes with a new development?

Every development comes with a 10-year structural warranty, which is also a requirement for mortgage lending on new build properties.

Do you work on listed buildings?

Yes. We have over two decades of experience on listed buildings across North Devon and the South West including Grade I and Grade II properties, churches, stately homes and manor houses.

How often should a roof be inspected?

A roof should be inspected at least once a year, and after major storms. Catching a slipped slate, failed flashing or blocked gutter early prevents water getting into the structure, where the real damage and cost lie. On older and listed buildings regular inspection is especially worthwhile.

Why is my lead roof cracking?

Lead cracks when it cannot move freely with temperature changes. If panels are too large or fixed too rigidly, thermal expansion causes splits and fatigue over time. The fix is to replace the affected lead using the correct code and panel size to Lead Sheet Association guidance, so it can expand and contract as designed.

Do you have your own scaffolding?

Yes. It means we can manage the programme more efficiently and keep costs competitive.

Have you completed lottery funded heritage projects?

Yes. We have worked on nearly 100 heritage buildings including lottery funded projects across the South West and are familiar with the reporting and quality requirements that come with funded work.

How long does a lead roof last?

A correctly installed lead roof lasts over 100 years. Lead is the most durable traditional roofing material, which is why it is specified on heritage and conservation projects where longevity matters. Both cast and milled lead outlast modern alternatives when installed to Lead Sheet Association standards.

What type of developments do you build?

High-end residential properties. We are not a volume developer. Every property is carefully considered, well specified and finished to a standard we are proud of.

What roofing materials are allowed in a conservation area?

In a conservation area, roofing materials usually have to match the character of the existing building and the surrounding properties, which often means natural slate or clay tile rather than concrete or synthetic alternatives. Permitted development rights are frequently restricted, so it is worth checking with the local authority before any work. We can advise and liaise on your behalf.

Do you take on joint venture projects?

Potentially. We are open to conversations with the right partners on the right sites. Get in touch if you have something you would like to discuss.

Can old slates be reused?

Yes. Natural slate often outlasts the nails holding it, so sound slates can be carefully removed and relaid during a re-roof. This is common on heritage and listed buildings where matching the original slate is important. We sort and reuse what we can and source matching slate for the rest.

What is an insurance-backed guarantee and do I need one?

An insurance-backed guarantee protects your workmanship guarantee even if the contractor stops trading. It is provided by a third-party insurer rather than the contractor, so it still holds value if the company closes. On new build flat roofs it is now a requirement. We provide them through our Polyroof approved system.

What traditional materials do you work with?

Lime mortar and lime render, natural slate, lead, cast iron, natural stone and traditional timber. We understand how these materials perform and how to apply them correctly.

Do you carry public liability insurance?

Please contact us directly for the most up to date information on our insurance arrangements.

Can you match existing slate or tile on a repair?

In most cases yes. We have a lot of experience sourcing matching materials on both modern and older properties and will always discuss options before we proceed.

Do you handle project management?

Yes. We can coordinate trades, manage programmes and liaise with architects and engineers on your behalf. We agree the scope at the outset.

Can you recommend an architect if I don't have one?

Yes. We have a network of architects we work with regularly across different project types and are happy to make introductions.

Do you work with architects?

Yes. We work alongside architects regularly and are comfortable as the main contractor on architect-led projects. We have good working relationships with a number of architects across North Devon and beyond.

Can you work with conservation officers on my behalf?

Yes. We have extensive experience working alongside conservation officers and are happy to engage with them directly where needed.

Are you NFRC registered?

Yes. We are full members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and TrustMark registered.

How long does lead flashing last?

Lead flashing lasts up to 100 years when it is installed so it can expand and contract freely. Most flashing fails early because it was fixed too rigidly or the lengths were too long, causing it to crack with thermal movement. Replacing it like-for-like to Lead Sheet Association sizing prevents this.

How do I know if a roofer is qualified?

Check for membership of a recognised trade body and independent registration. We are full members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and TrustMark registered, which means our work is independently vetted to industry standards. Always ask to see proof of accreditation and examples of similar completed work.

Do you offer a guarantee on roofing work?

Yes. All our roofing work is guaranteed and flat roof work comes with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee. Guarantees on other roof types vary by material and manufacturer. We will always talk you through what is available before we start.

How do I know if my property is in a conservation area?

Your local planning authority can confirm this. In North Devon that is North Devon District Council or Exmoor National Park Authority depending on your location. We know the conservation areas across the region well and can advise if you are unsure.

Do I need planning permission to replace my roof?

Usually not for a like-for-like replacement. But if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or if you are changing the materials, consent may be needed. We will always check before we start and can liaise with the planning authority if required.

Do I need listed building consent before starting work?

Yes in most cases. Any work that affects the character of a listed building needs consent, even internal work. We can advise on what is likely to be needed and work alongside your architect or planning consultant through the process.

What warranties do you offer on new builds?

All new builds come with a 10-year structural warranty through Build Zone or equivalent. We will advise on the most appropriate provider at the outset.

How long does a tile roof last?

Clay tiles last 60 years or more and concrete tiles around 50, both dependent on correct laying and fixing. Handmade clay tiles on older properties can last considerably longer. The most common cause of early failure is not the tile but the battens, fixings or underlay beneath it.

How long does a re-roof take?

A typical domestic re-roof takes one to two weeks, depending on the size of the roof, the materials and the weather. Larger or more complex roofs, and heritage work using traditional methods, take longer. We give a clear timescale before starting and keep you updated throughout.

Can a slate roof be repaired or does it need replacing?

In most cases a slate roof can be repaired rather than replaced. Individual slates can be removed and replaced without disturbing the rest of the roof. A full re-roof is usually only needed when the fixings have failed across the roof, which is common on roofs around 100 years old where the nails have corroded and slates are slipping.

How long have you been trading?

Over two decades. Jamie Brown founded the business and remains hands-on across all projects.

Do you build eco homes?

Yes. Sustainability and energy performance are built into everything we do. We can also advise on accreditation schemes such as Passivhaus where relevant.

Can I change the roof material on a listed building?

Usually no. On a listed building, the roof must normally be replaced like-for-like with the original material, and any change requires listed building consent. This is why natural slate, clay tile and lead are specified on heritage roofs rather than modern substitutes. We work with conservation officers to agree materials before work begins.

How long does a slate roof last?

A natural slate roof lasts 80 to 100 years or more when correctly laid. Welsh and other high-quality natural slates often reach the upper end of that range. Fibre-cement slate lasts around 50 to 70 years. Lifespan depends far more on the quality of the installation and the fixings than on the slate itself.

What is the difference between bossing and welding lead?

Bossing is the traditional method of shaping lead by hand using wooden tools. Welding joins sheets of lead together using heat and a lead filler rod. Bossing suits complex shapes and detailing, welding suits larger joints and runs. We are skilled in both and use whichever suits the job.

Do you handle building regulations compliance?

Yes. We work closely with building control throughout every project to make sure all work meets the required standards.

Let's talk.

Whether you're a homeowner with a project in mind, an architect looking for a reliable contractor or interested in one of our developments, we'd love to hear from you.

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