Heritage Roofing
Greyfriars Roofing believes roofs serve not only as protective shelters but also act as historical elements. The family-owned heritage roofing company has been maintaining historic roofs for more than 60 years by merging traditional skills with contemporary expertise. Our dedication extends to protecting the character of heritage properties throughout Scotland which include both castles and commercial buildings.
Award winning Heritage Roofers
Experienced Heritage Roofers
Comprehensive Heritage Roofing Services
Heritage Roofing Services
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 Heritage Project?
With several roofing companies out there, you might ask: “What makes Greyfriars Roofing stand out as the right choice for my historic property?” In a word: experience. Heritage roofing requires a level of expertise that goes above and beyond ordinary roofing work, and Greyfriars brings a wealth of that expertise to the table. Here’s a quick look at our credentials and what they mean for you:
Decades of Family Experience – We’re a family-run business spanning two generations. Combined, our team brings over 60 years of hands-on experience in roofing. The knowledge and traditional skills have been passed down and honed over decades. When we say we know heritage roofing, we truly mean it – we’ve likely worked on every roof type and material found in Scotland’s historic buildings.
Award-Winning Heritage Roofers – Greyfriars Roofing has been recognized at the highest levels of the industry. We were proud winners of the NFRC Scottish Roofing Contractor of the Year 2019 (Lead Roofing category) for a leadwork project in Bonnyrigg. More recently, we were finalists for the Lead Contractors Association Murdoch Awards in both 2023 and 2024, competing amongst the UK’s best for our heritage roofing craftsmanship.
Trade Accreditations and Quality Marks – Greyfriars is fully accredited and quality-assured. We are TrustMark approved, which is the UK government’s endorsed quality scheme – a sign that we operate ethically, with proper customer care and technical competence. We’re also registered members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), meaning our work meets their rigorous standards and code of practice, and we’re part of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) program, demonstrating our commitment to ongoing training and skills development. On top of that, we belong to the Lead Contractors Association (LCA)
Qualified & Certified Team – Our roofing team doesn’t just have experience – they have the credentials to back it up and have achieved an ‘Excellent’ grade in our LCA compliance audits (the highest quality rating, reflecting our superb leadwork standards).
Reputation for Trust and Reliability – Over the years, we’ve built a sterling reputation throughout Edinburgh and across Scotland. Much of our work comes from word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients, which speaks volumes about the trust we’ve earned.
Greyfriars Roofing offers expertise you can count on we pair the intimate knowledge of heritage roofing with a professional approach to customer service. When you choose us, you’re getting a contractor with both technical know-how and proven credibility – a team that will treat your historic roof with the respect and skill it deserves.
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.
High-Quality Heritage Roofing by Greyfriars
Take a look at the craftsmanship behind one of our completed heritage roofing projects. This video highlights the quality and attention to detail our team brings to every roof. As experts in heritage roofing, Greyfriars Roofing is trusted across Scotland to deliver traditional leadwork that lasts and respects the character of historic buildings.
Serving Scotland’s Heritage Roofing Needs – Contact Us
Greyfriars Roofing is based in Edinburgh, but our work has taken us all across Scotland. From city townhouses to country farmsteads, if there’s a historic roof in need, we’re ready to travel. We’ve worked throughout Scotland and we’re only a phone call away and willing to come to you. Our reach isn’t confined by geography; it’s defined by where the heritage roofs are that need our expertise.
We understand that entrusting someone with your historic property is a big decision. That’s why we offer free estimates and honest advice. If you’re unsure about the condition of your heritage roof or gutters, we’re happy to take a look and give our professional opinion, with no obligation. Sometimes a little repair now can prevent a huge expense later – and sometimes we find the roof is actually in better shape than you thought!
Ready to preserve your roof’s heritage? Get in touch with Greyfriars Roofing today. We can schedule a visit to assess your roof and discuss options tailored to your needs and budget. With our award-winning expertise and commitment to quality, your historic roof will be in the best possible hands. Let us help you protect your piece of Scotland’s architectural heritage – with Greyfriars Roofing as your guide and contractor, you can be confident that the legacy of your roof will continue, strong and beautiful, for many years to come.
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Our Heritage Roofing work
What Makes Heritage Roofing Different
Heritage roofing extends beyond leak repairs because it focuses on maintaining the historical buildings’ distinct character and traditional craftsmanship. Roofs with slate covering 19th-century townhouses and lead flashings on listed chapels demonstrate architectural traditions that demand respect.
Greyfriars Roofing focuses on roof restoration through proven methods and materials including natural slate, handmade clay tiles, milled lead and cast iron gutters. The team has expertise in matching original features and sourcing reclaimed materials while applying traditional repairs ranging from lime mortar pointing to hand-dressed slate coursing. When executed correctly this restoration work safeguards the structural integrity while maintaining the building’s visual alignment with its historical time period.
Heritage roofing demands expertise beyond basic craftsmanship skills. The majority of our projects demand compliance with regulations for listed buildings and conservation areas. Our team works closely with conservation officers to ensure that all our activities comply with official guidance. Our service includes helping clients manage listed building consent processes while supplying them with comprehensive planning documents for approval purposes. Our method of repairing instead of replacing offers both financial benefits and essential preservation of building authenticity.
Selecting the proper Code 5 or 6 lead for valleys and bays and recreating intricate bargeboards or finding suitable pantiles requires attention to every detail. In our work on roofs and rainwater goods restoration we always emphasize long-lasting materials while respecting historical accuracy. Heritage professionals recommend us and property owners throughout Scotland trust us because we prioritize conservation in our approach.
FAQs
What is Heritage Roofing?
Heritage roofing refers to repairing and restoring roofs of historic or listed buildings through traditional materials and methods. The primary goal of heritage roofing is to maintain the building’s authentic character and handcrafted details.
Can any roofer handle heritage roofing projects?
Roofer expertise varies and not all possess the skills needed for heritage roofing projects. Successful completion of these jobs requires specialists with experience using traditional materials such as lead and slate along with expertise in historical building techniques.
How do I find a heritage roofing contractor in Edinburgh?
In the contractor selection process check their expertise with traditional materials and techniques along with their knowledge of local conservation regulations. Prospective clients should obtain references and examine earlier work to determine their appropriateness for specific requirements.
What types of properties require heritage roofing?
Heritage roofing projects commonly focus on structures built prior to 1920. Heritage roofing projects frequently involve residential homes along with churches and castles and halls that have important historical or cultural significance.
What are the main difficulties involved in restoring roofs on historic buildings?
The task of restoring roofs on heritage buildings introduces multiple challenges. The restoration process for heritage roofing projects demands finding matching traditional materials and maintaining original craftsmanship while adhering to conservation guidelines and preventing any damage to the building’s historic fabric.
Can modern materials be used in heritage roofing projects?
Heritage roofing projects can incorporate modern materials provided they adhere to conservation guidelines and maintain the building’s historic character. Traditional materials such as slate, clay tiles, and lead remain the choices of preference for most heritage roofing projects to ensure authentic preservation.
How often should roofing work be carried out on heritage buildings?
Heritage building roofs need maintenance as determined by systematic inspections which should occur every one to two years. Regular maintenance tasks like clearing gutters and checking for damage prevent expensive repairs. Buildings usually need complete restoration or repair work every few decades depending on the materials used and environmental weather conditions.
What heritage roofing services include?
Heritage roofing services offer inspection services along with slate and tile repairs and leadwork restoration as well as chimney and masonry repairs and lime repointing together with conservation-compliant upgrades timber repairs and ongoing roof maintenance.
Free Heritage Quotes & Advice
