Historic Roof Restoration by Armadillo Roofing
Reynolds House is a Georgian manor over 300 years old, set deep in the Hampshire countryside. When the owners contacted Armadillo Roofing, they were concerned that the roof—exposed to three centuries of British weather—was nearing total failure.
On inspection, we found the original clay tiles had crumbled at the touch, with corroded fixings no longer holding them securely. Many were resting only by friction and gravity. The roof’s wavy profile revealed underlying structural damage, suggesting significant degradation in the oak rafters supporting the structure.
Due to the fragile state of the roof, it was unsafe to remove tiles for a full survey. Once the restoration began, our team confirmed that a large percentage of the structural timbers were compromised. In one section alone, over 60% of the rafters needed restoration or reinforcement.
As experts in historic roof restoration in Hampshire, we developed a plan that would preserve the character of the building while ensuring its long-term stability. Wherever possible, we treated and retained the original Siberian oak rafters. Where additional support was required, we installed sister rafters—carefully placed to blend with the existing framework without compromising historical authenticity.
To prepare the roof for tiling, we installed a high-performance Permavent breathable membrane and new battens. The client requested tiles that matched the building’s period character, leading us to source hand-made, artificially weathered clay roof tiles that closely matched the originals in appearance and texture.
More than 20,000 tiles were laid with precision, and we introduced a dry ridge system—a subtle modern addition that provides proper ventilation and helps prevent future rot in the remaining original timber. The roof now performs to modern standards, while visually remaining part of the original architecture.
Each of the property’s dormer windows had suffered from advanced rot and heat loss. Our carpenters fully rebuilt and resealed them, significantly improving the insulation and structure in time for winter. These subtle restorations helped elevate the home’s energy efficiency without disrupting its historic façade.
During this project, we underwent an on-site inspection by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) as part of our application for professional accreditation. Following the successful completion of Reynolds House, Armadillo Roofing became an NFRC-accredited contractor, a prestigious status that reflects our expertise and commitment to industry standards.
We are also proud members of Checkatrade, where our reputation is backed by transparent customer reviews and third-party verification.
👉 Read our Checkatrade reviews
Completed Manor house roof with aged clay tiles
The Reynolds House roof restoration is more than just a success story—it’s a model of how sympathetic roofing techniques can preserve the past while protecting the future. This was not a rebuild; it was a carefully planned heritage roof restoration that demanded craftsmanship, precision, and respect for the building’s story.
At Armadillo Roofing, we believe a restored roof should look like it’s always been there. That philosophy was brought to life at Reynolds House—where every tile, joint, and rafter tells a story of care and commitment.
Looking to restore a period property? Need heritage roofing experts in Hampshire or beyond?
Get in touch with Armadillo Roofing today.
Phone: 0333 0382558
Email: info@armadilloroofing.co.uk
Website: www.armadilloroofing.co.uk
Checkatrade: View Reviews
