A remarkable blend of modern materials and time-honoured craftsmanship has revitalised a historic landmark in Rotherham. The Thomas Rotherham College, a bastion of education with deep historical roots, has completed a significant project to replace the aging roof of its Grade II-listed Woodhurst building. This extensive undertaking, which saw the application of over 4,750 linear metres of high-quality roofing battens and more than 30,000 Welsh slats, was a testament to the meticulous planning and expert execution required to preserve a heritage site.
The Woodhurst building, an architectural gem that forms a central part of the college campus, required a comprehensive re-roofing solution to address decades of wear and tear. The project’s scope was substantial, covering an area of 500 square metres and demanding a sensitive approach to maintain the building’s historical integrity. Appointed as the specialist contractor, NRA Roofing was tasked with this delicate operation, a role that called for not only technical skill but also a deep respect for the building’s original design and Victorian-era construction.
The project began with the careful and systematic removal of the old roof, a critical first step that paved the way for the installation of new, durable materials. The selection of these materials was a crucial phase, guided by the need to ensure both long-lasting performance and aesthetic harmony with the building’s original character. To achieve this, NRA Roofing collaborated with AccuRoof, a division of the well-known SIG Roofing group, in the early stages to precisely define the material requirements.
The choice of materials was pivotal. For the slates, the team opted for high-quality Welsh slate sourced from the renowned Cwt Y Bugail quarry, supplied by SIG Roofing. This particular slate was chosen for its exceptional quality, durability, and a classic aesthetic that perfectly complemented the building’s heritage. The slats were carefully laid on a robust and modern foundation, which included a breathable membrane and premium timber battens.
A key component of this foundation was the SR Timber Premium Gold-graded roofing batten. The selection of this specific batten was deliberate, as it meets rigorous industry standards, including those outlined in BS 8417:2011+A1:2014 for timber preservation and BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 for grading. SR Timber’s Premium Gold batten is also one of the select few construction products to have successfully undergone assessment by the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), a new mark of quality assurance in the industry. This adherence to strict standards was paramount, assuring the battens’ long-term durability and performance.
The new roofing system was designed to provide not just a new aesthetic but also a significant upgrade in thermal performance. The project included the installation of increased insulation, which will substantially improve the property’s energy efficiency. To ensure proper ventilation and prevent moisture buildup, counter battens were also fitted. The use of a TLX Batsafe breather membrane further enhanced the system’s performance, contributing to an improved U-value—a measure of a building component’s heat transfer rate.
The collaboration between all parties involved—from the material suppliers at AccuRoof and SIG Roofing to the skilled craftsmanship of NRA Roofing—was essential to the project’s success. The combination of the inherently durable Welsh slate and the expertly installed timber framework is expected to give the new roof a lifespan of at least 75 years, mirroring the longevity of its Victorian predecessor. This project at Thomas Rotherham College stands as a prime example of how modern construction techniques and materials can be integrated with traditional craftsmanship to preserve and enhance historical buildings for future generations. It underscores the importance of choosing high-quality, certified materials and relying on the expertise of experienced professionals in the specialized field of heritage building preservation. The revitalised Woodhurst building now not only stands as a testament to its storied past but is also prepared to face the future with a resilient and efficient new roof.
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