Old Roofs: Construction, repair and replacement

This course examines the design and construction of old roofs, considers the problems that they present and reviews current practice in maintenance and repair.

The roofs of older buildings present challenges to all owners and developers. It is essential to understand their construction and the materials and coverings used in them whenever they need to be repaired following damage
or failure and where replacement, with newer and different materials, is being considered. Similarly, alterations and additions to the roofs of the older buildings are less straightforward than in the case of newer ones.

This course considers these issues and covers:

• the design and construction of old roofs
• historic roof structures: cruck frames, trusses, clasped purlins and coupled rafters
• traditional roof covering materials including: thatch, shingle lead, tile and slate
• the latest research into thatch fires and new approaches to limiting possible damage in the future
• recent research into under-sheet corrosion in lead roofs and possible solutions
• causes of decay and methods of repair
• selection and specification of replacement materials

Kevin Stubbs is an independent Historic Buildings Consultant whose clients include private home owners, local authorities and various national academic organisations. He comes with a background of very extensive experience in education, archaeology and building conservation. He has previously worked as a Director of Archaeology in the Test Valley, Principal Buildings Conservation Officer for Hampshire County Council and Director of a building conservation centre.

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