Expert Heritage Roofing in Looe, Cornwall

Have you ever looked closely at the older roofs around Cornwall? Many of them use a technique called 'scantle' roofing. It’s a beautiful, traditional method where we use random-sized slates bedded in lime mortar. It’s a bit of a lost art, but it's something we're incredibly proud to offer. We often source authentic Delabole slate to ensure a perfect match for restorations. Whether your property needs a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, we focus on 'like-for-like' materials. Why does this matter? Because using the wrong slate or a modern dry-fix system on a heritage building can look out of place and, more importantly, can cause structural issues down the line. We’re here to make sure your home stays looking exactly as it should.

One of the most common mistakes people make with historic buildings is using modern cement for pointing. Old buildings need to 'breathe,' and that's where traditional lime mortar comes in. It’s flexible and allows moisture to escape, preventing the damp problems that often plague older properties in our damp Cornish climate. We also specialise in traditional lead roofing, including bespoke lead bossing and welding around chimneys and valleys. It’s a skill that takes years to master, but it’s the only way to ensure a watertight finish on complex period roofs. Imagine the peace of mind knowing your chimney stacks and gullies are protected by hand-crafted leadwork designed to last for generations.

We know that inspecting a roof on a tall, narrow house in a conservation area can be a logistical nightmare. Often, you’re looking at hundreds of pounds just for scaffolding before a roofer has even seen the problem. That’s why we’ve invested in high-resolution drone roof surveys. It’s a complete game-changer for heritage properties. We can fly a drone up to check on delaminating slates, crumbling lime mortar, or blocked guttering without touching a single fragile tile. It’s fast, safe, and gives you a clear picture of what’s actually going on up there. Most homeowners find this incredibly helpful for insurance claims or just for getting an honest, visual assessment before committing to any work.

Does the thought of dealing with 'Listed Building Consent' or talking to conservation officers make you feel a bit uneasy? You’re not alone. Many of our customers in Looe live in Grade II listed homes or properties within strict conservation zones. We’ve been through the process many times and can help you navigate the requirements. We understand that every heritage roofing project needs to be a 'sympathetic restoration.' This means we work closely with local authorities to ensure our methods and materials meet their high standards. Whether it's a chimney repair or a full re-roof, we handle the technical details so you can simply enjoy your home.