Heritage Roofing Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock’s past can be found in the many historic sandstone townhouses and civic and church buildings still standing throughout the town. As such, the heritage roofs on these buildings must be cared for to the same degree of precision and understanding that built them.
At Greyfriars Roofing, we are specialists in the restoration and repair of heritage roofs in Kilmarnock and the surrounding area. We have carried out roof repairs and replacements on Victorian villas in Howard Park, traditional tenements on London Road and in listed conservation areas in the centre of town.
Every job is treated with a meticulous attention to detail and authenticity in line with the age of the building. Our family business of over 60 years’ experience is underpinned by traditional hand-cut slate coursing and lead detailing methods, combined with modern best practice for lasting durability.
From re-coursing reclaimed Scottish slate to replacing ornate lead detailing on a church roof, we maintain heritage roofs to the highest standards of conservation. We also work with East Ayrshire Council’s planning department and conservation officers where necessary to ensure compliance with local building regulations and for listed properties. We are also able to help with heritage grants, technical drawings and the right materials to maintain the integrity of the roof structure.
Greyfriars Roofing strives to ensure the heritage roofs in Kilmarnock remain authentic and continue to stand proud, embodying the architecture that has made Kilmarnock what it is today.
Award winning Heritage Roofers
Experienced Heritage Roofers
Comprehensive Heritage Roofing Services
Heritage Roofing Services in Kilmarnock
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 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.
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.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
Free Heritage Roofing Quotes & Advice
Our Heritage Roofing work
Why Choose Greyfriars Roofing for Your Kilmarnock Heritage Project?
Historic roofs in Kilmarnock are best repaired by those with an intimate knowledge of heritage roofs, craft, and tradition. From the stately sandstone villas of London Road to the Kay Park conservation areas, Kilmarnock’s architectural history demands a skilful and careful approach. Greyfriars Roofing’s reputation was earned through decades of experience and is the perfect choice for heritage roofing services that complement the historical significance of each home.
Decades of Specialist Expertise
With 60 years of hands-on experience across two generations, Greyfriars Roofing is a family-run business with experience working on a range of heritage sites in Ayrshire, from period houses in Kilmarnock to traditional ecclesiastical buildings. We know the authentic roofing materials of reclaimed Ballachulish slate, milled lead, and hand-cut stone ridge tiles, making sure every detail echoes the original roof’s historical identity.
Award-Winning Craftsmanship
We have been recognised with industry awards for our heritage roofing work. We won the NFRC Scottish Roofing Contractor of the Year for our restoration work in Bonnyrigg in 2019. We have been a finalist in the Lead Contractors Association’s Murdoch Awards in 2023 and 2024, recognising the high-quality and historically accurate work we do on roofs.
Trusted Standards and Industry Recognised
We maintain high industry standards through our TrustMark accreditation and membership of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and the Lead Contractors Association (LCA). We are members of the CITB scheme, ensuring we’re constantly developing professionally. Our heritage roofing work is audited regularly, achieving an ‘Excellent’ grading for the quality and safety of our leadwork.
Built on Reputation in Ayrshire
Within Kilmarnock and the surrounding towns, our heritage roofing work is carried out through client recommendations and trusted partnerships. Homeowners, churches, and organisations rely on us for the careful restoration of historical roofs. Whether working on a listed townhouse in the heart of town or a country estate, we bring the same attention to detail, honesty, and care to each job.
Greyfriars Roofing is honoured to be involved in Kilmarnock’s architectural history. Each slate, lead seam, and piece of timber we restore adds to the town’s historical identity for future generations.
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 – Kilmarnock Craftsmanship on Display
Take a closer look at the craftsmanship of one of our finished projects in Kilmarnock. Watch as the unique detail work that goes into each project comes to life, from the beautiful new lay of reclaimed slates to handmade lead flashings replicating the original detailing of the building. Greyfriars Roofing is committed to restoring the history of Kilmarnock’s built heritage with care, attention and traditional craftmanship.
Serving Kilmarnock’s Heritage Roofing Needs – Contact Us
Although we’re based in Edinburgh, we’re no strangers to the region. We’ve carried out a variety of heritage roofing projects in Kilmarnock, repairing and maintaining everything from sandstone villas in Howard Park to tenement roofs around London Road. We have the skills and knowledge to restore any roof you need restoring, in and around Ayrshire.
There’s no substitute for the right company when it comes to your Kilmarnock property. We give honest advice based on decades of hands-on experience, with free estimates to back it up. We assess the roofline and make recommendations based on your options for weathered leadwork, rotten slate and gutters. Sometimes what seems like a big job can actually be fixed for less than you think.
With years of experience providing heritage roofing to properties in Kilmarnock and beyond, Greyfriars Roofing are here to help property owners in and around the area with quality, respectful roofing. With high standards, traditional methods and genuine material sources, we preserve Kilmarnock’s architectural history one roof at a time.
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Our Heritage Roofing work
What Makes Heritage Roofing in Kilmarnock Unique
Preserving heritage roofs in Kilmarnock isn’t just about regular maintenance. It’s about maintaining the identity of the town itself. From the ornate eaves of Victorian villas along London Road to traditional slate roofs on sandstone terraces by Kay Park, each building has a story to be preserved with careful roofing work.
At Greyfriars Roofing, we restore heritage roofs using traditional techniques and period materials. That means using reclaimed Scottish slate, clay pantiles, milled lead, and cast iron rainwater goods, and employing traditional lime mortar pointing and hand-cut slate coursing to preserve the look while also delivering long-lasting protection.
A lot of our projects in Kilmarnock are listed buildings or properties within conservation areas, so we need to understand the local requirements and work with East Ayrshire Council’s conservation officers throughout the project. From our initial consultation through to completion, we ensure the works comply with local regulations. We can guide clients through the listed building consent process and provide technical information to get the project approved.
from the lead codes used for valley gutters to matching the historic detail of stone ridges or timber fascias. Whether replacing a whole roof or just repairing slate slates, we place a premium on conservation, quality and historical accuracy.
Owners, trusts and property agents in Kilmarnock trust Greyfriars Roofing to preserve, protect and improve the distinctive period architecture of the town one roof at a time.
FAQs
What is a heritage roof in Kilmarnock?
A heritage roof in Kilmarnock can refer to a roof of a property that is of historic interest, such as Victorian terraces, Georgian townhouses, and properties within conservation areas which feature original slate, clay tile or ornate leadwork.
Do I need permission to repair or replace my heritage roof?
Yes, in the case of a listed property or a property within a conservation area you will require listed building consent before starting work. Greyfriars Roofing can assist with the listed building consent process and make sure you are fully compliant.
What are the traditional roofing materials used in Kilmarnock?
The traditional roofing materials used in Kilmarnock are Scottish slate, clay pantiles, lead flashings and cast iron guttering. These materials help to complement the town’s architectural style and maintain visual and structural integrity.
Can heritage roofing be repaired or does it always need replacing?
Not always. At Greyfriars Roofing we will always attempt to repair first. Where possible we will replace individual slates, leadwork and repair mortar joints to ensure that the original material and character of the roof is retained.
How long does heritage roof restoration in Kilmarnock take?
It will depend on the condition of the roof, the size of the property and any planning consents. Minor repairs can be done within a few days and full restorations can take a few weeks. We will give you a clear schedule and keep you informed throughout the process.
Can new materials be matched with the original roof elements?
Yes, we can source reclaimed Scottish slate and other period materials to ensure that the new section of the roof cannot be identified as new and can complement the existing roof.
Do you have experience working with Kilmarnock’s unique building styles and planning policies?
Yes, at Greyfriars Roofing we have over 60 years of roofing experience working with a number of historic properties in Kilmarnock. We are familiar with the planning policies in Kilmarnock and understand the traditional building styles that are prevalent in the town.
How do I know if my heritage roof needs attention?
You may notice missing slates, water damage or visible sagging of the roofline or leadwork that is showing signs of deterioration. We offer a free roof inspection and can provide expert advice on whether your heritage roof needs attention.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
Free Heritage Roofing Quotes & Advice
