St Nicholas Church Heritage Roof Restoration

A full roof restoration on a heritage church, blending craftsmanship, care, and durability

How the Project Began

St Nicholas Church is a cherished local landmark whose roof had suffered years of weathering, leak damage, and weakening structural elements. The church leadership reached out to SDS Roofing for a full roof restoration, ensuring the building’s integrity for decades to come.

From the first site visit, our team appreciated the sensitivity of working with a heritage building: balancing traditional aesthetic, long-term durability, and compliance with ecclesiastical and conservation constraints. With our experience in historic roofworks, SDS was entrusted with the project.

Project Objectives & Challenges

• Restore full water tightness across the entire roof, removing leaks and vulnerable points
• Retain or replicate original architectural details, such as leadwork, ornate ridge elements, and historic rooflines
• Improve structural support beneath the roof where timbers had weakened
• Use materials sympathetic to the original build, while ensuring modern standards of waterproofing, insulation, and durability
• Minimise disruption to the church congregation and services during works

Key challenges included:

• Access and scaffolding around a prominent, tall building
• Navigating conservation and heritage constraints, potentially requiring approvals
• Unexpected rot or timber defects revealed once the roof covering was removed
• Integrating modern waterproof membranes and insulation without compromising historic appearance

What We Did — Step by Step

Below is a breakdown of the major phases and interventions we carried out for the St Nicholas Church roof restoration:

1. Survey, Removal & Structural Assessment

Once scaffolding and safe access were established, we carefully removed the old roof covering (tiles/slates, lead flashings etc.). As the roof was stripped back, hidden timber deterioration and structural weaknesses were discovered. Each section was assessed by our in-house carpentry and structural teams to decide which timbers could be retained, reinforced, or replaced.

2. Repair & Timber Reinforcement

Where original timbers remained sound, we reinforced them with discreet strengthening. In areas too degraded for repair, replacement timbers matching the original species and profile were installed. All new and existing timbers were treated and tied into the roof structure, ensuring continuity and integrity.

3. Underlay & Waterproofing

A modern breathable, high performance membrane was installed over the structural deck to act as the waterproofing and secondary barrier. We ensured correct laps, flashing interfaces, and ventilated detailing in line with best practices for heritage roofs.

4. Lead Flashings & Detailing

Leadwork is critical in church roofing (flashings, parapets, gutter interfaces, valleys, and more). Our lead specialists formed new lead flashings, trays and soakers using traditional techniques, carefully soldered and fitted to match the historic character while ensuring longevity.

5. Roof Covering (Tiles / Slates)

Depending on what the original roof used, we either reclaimed suitable slate/tile or sourced matching new materials in harmony with the existing style. The roof coverings were laid with precision, with correct head and side laps, and with consideration of drainage, alignment, and mechanical fixing where needed.

6. Finishing Touches & Final Inspection

We reinstated ridge features, finials, and other heritage features. A final walkthrough, leak test, and moisture inspections ensured the roof was performing. Throughout the process, we liaised with the church wardens and conservation advisors to certify that the work met expectations.

Outcomes & Benefits

• The church is now watertight, with the roof capable of withstanding decades more of exposure
• Historic detailing preserved or faithfully replicated, maintaining the building’s character
• Structural integrity restored, giving confidence that the underlying roof frame now supports the covering securely
• Lower maintenance risk for the congregation, with modern waterproofing and durable materials reducing future repair needs
• A restored landmark appearance, reinforcing the church’s presence in the community

Client Testimonial

“We entrusted SDS Roofing with one of our most precious assets, and they delivered with professionalism and sensitivity. The team showed great respect for the historic fabric of the church, communicated clearly throughout, and their craftsmanship is exceptional. The roof now looks magnificent and, more importantly, functions perfectly. We’re grateful for their care and would wholeheartedly recommend them for any heritage roofing work.”

Get a Quote for Historic Roof Restoration

At SDS Roofing, we welcome complex and sensitive projects like St Nicholas Church. If you have a building requiring restoration, heritage attention or quality workmanship, get in touch for a free quote or to discuss your vision.

Get a Free Quote Online
or call us on 01489 788577