Restoring Heritage: Natural Slate Roof Replacement on a Wiltshire Farm

Nestled in the heart of the Wiltshire countryside, our latest roofing project blended tradition, craftsmanship, and natural beauty in equal measure. Tasked with replacing the roof of a historic farm building, we turned to one of the most enduring and beautiful materials available: natural slate.

Preserving Character, Ensuring Longevity

The farm, with its weathered stone walls and panoramic views over rolling fields, deserved nothing less than a roofing solution that honoured its heritage. The original slate tiles, while charming, had endured years of harsh weather and were no longer fit for purpose. Leaks had begun to appear, and some of the slates had slipped or cracked, posing both a structural and aesthetic concern.

Our client wanted a roof that not only restored the building’s structural integrity but also retained its period character. Natural slate was the perfect choice—sustainable, durable, and visually timeless.

Carefully Sourced, Expertly Installed

We sourced premium-grade natural slates from a reputable quarry known for producing tiles with a consistent grain and rich, dark hue that matched the farm’s original roofing as closely as possible. Each tile was individually inspected to ensure it met our quality standards.

The installation process began with the careful removal of the old roof. We salvaged any reusable slates for future use, in keeping with the farm’s ethos of sustainability. Once the structure was stripped back to its rafters, we checked and repaired the underlying timbers before laying a breathable membrane to provide added weather protection.

The slates were then laid by hand in the traditional style, fixed with copper nails for longevity. Attention to detail was key—from maintaining the correct pitch and alignment to ensuring proper drainage and weatherproofing.

A Seamless Blend of Old and New

Now complete, the new roof sits perfectly atop the building—proud yet unobtrusive, with the same muted tones and natural textures that have graced rural Wiltshire farmsteads for centuries. It’s a roof that will last for decades, quietly withstanding the elements while contributing to the timeless charm of the property.

This project wasn’t just about replacing a roof. It was about respecting heritage, choosing quality materials, and executing the job with skill and care. The result? A roof that does justice to the land it stands on and the history it shelters beneath.