Heritage Roofing Johnstone
Johnstone is a town rich in character, which has developed over the years to include many different types of buildings; from traditional sandstone villas, Victorian terraces to important public buildings. Keeping the roofs of these properties in good order is essential not only to maintain the aesthetic appearance but also to keep their function as a watertight covering. Heritage roofing provides an important way to protect each individual building, which in turn plays a role in preserving Johnstone’s unique streetscape for the next generation.
Greyfriars Roofing specialise in the repair and preservation of traditional roofing across Johnstone. We have been involved in numerous projects to restore the roofs of period properties in the town, along with the conservation of churches and civic buildings of architectural significance. We have also completed work on properties within conservation areas, where we take special care to match the materials and original design.
As a family-run business with 60 years’ practical experience, we use time-honoured techniques where appropriate such as hand-dressing of slate and also where necessary the use of modern methods to best complete a restoration project. This has included everything from sourcing reclaimed Scottish slate and installing it on period buildings to cleaning and restoring ornate leadwork on heritage features.
We work closely with conservation officers and the planning department of Renfrewshire Council to ensure all our heritage roofing work complies with necessary regulations, especially where work is being carried out on listed buildings or in conservation areas. Our comprehensive knowledge of the town’s architectural history also allows us to advise on the most suitable materials and methods for every type of roof we restore.
Greyfriars Roofing is proud to play our part in preserving the identity of Johnstone. Every heritage roof we repair or restore strengthens the town’s historic skyline and its reflection of our cultural heritage and the craftsmanship that has maintained these buildings for generations.
Award winning Heritage Roofers
Experienced Heritage Roofers
Comprehensive Heritage Roofing Services
Heritage Roofing Services in Johnstone
Our heritage roofing services at Greyfriars Roofing cover all possible requirements your historic roof may require. We take all roofing jobs regardless of size or complexity because our priority is to keep your roof secure and weatherproof while maintaining its original design. These key services represent our core offerings as a heritage roofing company.
Heritage Chimney, Masonry Work and Repairs
We provide chimney repairs which include rebuilding unstable stone chimney heads and fitting lead chimney flashings. Our team partners with experienced stonemasons to guarantee that masonry work on historic roofs matches existing original stonework. We offer a seamless solution which keeps the historic appearance of the building by managing both roofing and masonry tasks together.
Heritage Commercial Roofing Projects
Greyfriars heritage commercial roofing portfolio includes work on churches, historic public buildings, farm steadings, and commercial heritage sites. From our decades of experience in working on heritage roofs, we understand the complexities of bigger heritage projects – dealing with multiple stakeholders, ensuring public safety around the site, and protecting the building’s contents.
Emergency Repairs and Storm Damage
Older roofs can be vulnerable to storm damage – high winds or heavy rain can dislodge materials or exacerbate leaks. We offer prompt emergency call-outs for heritage roofs in distress. Our crew will perform temporary fixes to prevent further water ingress, and then follow up with proper repairs once weather permits. You can have peace of mind that urgent repairs won’t turn into unsightly scars on your historic home.
Heritage Roof Repairs and Maintenance
From fixing leaks to replacing broken slates or tiles, we handle all kinds of repair works on historic roofs. Often heritage roof repairs require custom solutions – like hand-crafting a lead saddle for an awkward valley or sourcing a rare type of clay tile. We also offer maintenance plans, because preventative care (regular gutter cleaning, inspecting flashings, etc.) can extend the life of your roof and catch issues early.
Heritage Roof Restoration and Re-Roofing
Our team takes on comprehensive heritage roof restoration projects when roofs require extensive renovation instead of simple spot-repairs. The restoration process includes removing the roof covering with care followed by timber structure repairs when necessary before re-covering the roof with fresh or recycled materials. The building receives protection through our restoration work which also results in a substantial enhancement of its value and appearance.
Leadwork, Flashing & Gutter Replacement
Our expertise includes leadwork which allows us to repair and install lead flashings and gutters along with valleys, downpipes and full lead roofs for structures like bay windows or church porches. Our team refurbishes heritage guttering systems through methods like soldering pinholes in lead gutters or replacing damaged sections of cast iron gutters. Heritage roofing requires a matching drainage system since a properly restored roof depends on effective gutters.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
Free Heritage Roofing Quotes & Advice
Our Heritage Roofing work
Why Choose Greyfriars Roofing for Your Johnstone Heritage Project?
You don’t just need a lot of experience to complete a heritage roofing project with enduring results, you need the kind of credibility that only comes from decades of being trusted. The residential and commercial buildings in Johnstone are steeped in history. For the heritage roofers working on them, this can mean a world of difference. Greyfriars Roofing is a specialist company with all the necessary professional accreditations. Our family business has been around long enough to know how to get the trust of property owners and stakeholders across Johnstone and far beyond.
Experience across Generations
As a multi-generational family business, we bring 60 years of roofing experience to every project. Whether we’re completing major repairs to listed sandstone properties in Johnstone, period terraces, or historic public buildings, it’s our commitment to historical accuracy that sets us apart. We work with genuine reclaimed Scottish slate roofing materials and expertly crafted leadwork.
Award Winning Craftsmanship
Our heritage roofing work has been recognised at both local and national level. In 2019 we were awarded NFRC Scottish Roofing Contractor of the Year for our work in Lead Roofing. The Lead Contractors Association Murdoch Awards finalists list in 2023 and 2024 due to the level of detail in our heritage restoration work and lead craftsmanship.
Accreditations and Standards
We have several accreditations that demonstrate our commitment to industry best practices and quality workmanship. TrustMark accreditation means our work is reliable and our business practices are ethical. As a member of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) we are governed by rigorous industry standards. As full members of the Lead Contractors Association (LCA) we are actively engaged in the CITB scheme and have achieved an ‘Excellent’ standard in our compliance audits. We are dedicated to meeting the very highest standards in heritage leadwork.
Reputation in Johnstone
A lot of our work in Johnstone comes through client referrals and existing relationships with property owners. This is why we’re not only trusted to work on listed buildings on behalf of private homeowners, but why churches, heritage organisations and public institutions trust us with conservation projects too. Our heritage roofing is an investment that combines reliable service with a commitment to detail and getting every job done to match the building type of Johnstone. Greyfriars Roofing complete repairs and restorations that help to protect Johnstone’s historic buildings while retaining their character. By choosing us, you are choosing a contractor that can see the importance of every detail and material on your heritage property, from slate and tile to leadwork.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
Free Heritage Roofing Quotes & Advice
Client Testimonials and Our Trusted Reputation
We believe the true measure of our work is the satisfaction of our clients. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to work on many wonderful heritage projects, and our customers’ kind words motivate us to keep our standards sky-high. One testimonial, in particular, sums up what Greyfriars is all about:
“These guys are the best. Old school as they say, and know their stuff. They have done a beautiful job with lovely lead work done to perfection. I would have no hesitation in recommending Steve and his guys to do your roof. First class!!!” – Polly Hetherington, heritage roof client in Edinburgh (via Google review).
Beyond individual testimonials, Greyfriars Roofing maintains a solid standing in the community. We often get referrals from conservation officers and architects who know our work. Our clients appreciate that we treat their historic properties with respect – we keep sites tidy, ensure scaffolding is set up safely and considerately, and strive to minimise disruption.
Heritage Roofing in Action – Johnstone Craftsmanship on Display
Discover the skill and precision behind one of our completed heritage roofing projects in Johnstone. This short video highlights the attention to detail that defines our craftsmanship—from expertly laid Scottish slate to hand-formed lead flashings that follow the building’s original rooflines. At Greyfriars Roofing, we take great pride in restoring Johnstone’s historic properties with accuracy, respect, and traditional expertise.
Serving Johnstone’s Heritage Roofing Needs – Contact Us
Headquartered in Edinburgh, the team at Greyfriars Roofing have roofing experience across the country, from Johnstone to the Scottish Borders. We’ve carried out restoration and maintenance work on sandstone villas, cottages and country houses across Renfrewshire. Whatever the style or period of your property, our team is fully trained and qualified to work on period properties, specialising in traditional materials and techniques.
Our aim is to continue to help look after Scotland’s architectural heritage, keeping the historic buildings of Johnstone well maintained and looking good. There’s a lot to consider when you’re looking for a roofer to work on your heritage property in Johnstone. You need to be able to trust and have confidence in their workmanship, so we always strive to provide honest, no-nonsense advice, and a free, no-obligation quotation. We offer detailed, expert assessments of worn and weathered leadwork, slate and other age-related damage from our team of specialists with decades of experience in the industry. A little early maintenance can be the key to avoiding bigger (and more expensive) jobs down the line – though sometimes we also find we can offer reassurance that a roof is in better condition than first thought.
We aim to help heritage property owners in Johnstone and beyond who are looking for a reliable, long-term solution to protecting their roof. As award-winning roofers, we’re fully committed to the highest standards of craftsmanship and always pay careful attention to detail, as well as respecting traditional materials and building methods. We can help to protect the heritage of your property, so that its roof reflects the historic architectural style of Johnstone for many years to come.
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Our Heritage Roofing work
What Makes Heritage Roofing in Johnstone Unique
Preserving heritage roofs is a common requirement in Johnstone, as much of the town’s buildings character is above head height. The slate roofs on its Victorian terraces, sandstone villas and historic public buildings are a testament to the town’s heritage and must be carefully maintained with traditional methods and skilled workmanship. From the stone ridge tiles to the decorative leadwork and patterned slate cladding, each property has a story to tell about the area’s past.
Greyfriars Roofing are experts in sympathetic roof restoration. We use traditional methods and materials including natural slate, clay pantiles, milled lead and cast iron rainwater systems to keep Johnstone’s historic buildings in great condition. Our highly-skilled team are used to replicating original features, sourcing reclaimed materials and using heritage techniques such as lime mortar pointing and hand-cut slate coursing. These traditional skills and methods mean every restored roof retains its historic accuracy and provides many more years of protection.
A lot of our heritage roofing work in Johnstone is on listed buildings and is within conservation areas, which is why we work closely with Renfrewshire Council’s planning and conservation officers from the very beginning. Our service includes supporting clients through the listed building consent process and producing technical drawings and documentation. Wherever possible we aim to repair and not replace to preserve as much original material as possible and to keep costs down. There is a fine art to heritage roofing and an attention to detail is key. The lead codes used for valleys, the correct reproduction of timber bargeboards and the matching of Scottish slate types are key areas that can make or break a project.
We offer everything from minor repairs to complete heritage roof replacements in Johnstone, using only the highest quality long-lasting materials. Homeowners, conservation professionals and listed property owners all over the area continue to choose Greyfriars Roofing for restoration work that will protect Johnstone’s historic buildings.
FAQs
What is heritage roofing and why is it important in Johnstone?
Heritage roofing involves restoring and maintaining roofs on historic or period properties using traditional materials and methods. In Johnstone, this work is essential to protect the architectural character of older homes, churches, and civic buildings, ensuring they remain true to their original style.
What types of buildings in Johnstone require heritage roofing?
Heritage roofing is typically needed for listed properties, conservation area buildings, and period homes. In Johnstone, this can include sandstone villas, historic tenements, and older public buildings with distinctive slate or lead roofs.
Do heritage roofing projects in Johnstone require special permissions?
Yes. If your property is listed or located within a conservation area, you will usually need consent from Renfrewshire Council before starting work. An experienced heritage roofer can guide you through the application process and ensure compliance with local regulations.
What materials are used for heritage roofing in Johnstone?
Common materials include reclaimed Scottish slate, clay pantiles, milled lead, and cast iron rainwater systems. These are chosen to match the original roof materials as closely as possible, preserving the building’s historic appearance.
How do you ensure repairs match the original roof in a heritage project?
A skilled heritage roofing contractor will source reclaimed or specially manufactured materials that match the size, colour, and texture of the original. Traditional techniques, such as hand-cut slate coursing and lime mortar pointing, are used to ensure an authentic finish.
How long does a heritage roof restoration in Johnstone usually take?
The timescale depends on the size of the building, the complexity of the roof, and the availability of suitable materials. Smaller projects may take a few weeks, while larger or more intricate restorations could take several months.
Is heritage roofing in Johnstone more expensive than standard roofing?
Heritage roofing can be more costly due to the need for specialist skills, traditional materials, and compliance with conservation requirements. However, it is a long-term investment that preserves property value and historical integrity.
How can I find a trusted heritage roofing specialist in Johnstone?
Look for contractors with proven experience in heritage work, strong references, and relevant accreditations. A reputable roofer will be transparent about their methods, materials, and compliance with conservation standards.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
Free Heritage Roofing Quotes & Advice
