Project Overview
In 2019, John Flowers Ltd was appointed by ENGIE to carry out the full re roofing of a three storey apartment block in Arklecragg, Washington. The 1970s building contains 65 apartments and remained fully occupied throughout the works.
The roof spans approximately 175 linear metres and features a 45 degree bend in the structure. The existing covering consisted of 450mm x 450mm Hardrow slates installed over the original cosy felt system.
The Challenge
Inspection revealed that wind driven rain had repeatedly breached the slate safety margin, leaving the ageing felt membrane as the only protection against water ingress.
The differing roof slopes, curved building design, challenging weather conditions and tight programme added further complexity to the project.
The Solution
Working with slate manufacturer Forticrete, an improved specification was developed using 600mm x 450mm slates with increased headlap to enhance weather protection.
Due to the building’s curved shape, the inner roof formed a large swept valley requiring each slate to be precisely cut to maintain tight and continuous coursing.
The Result
Approximately 2,500m² of roofing was stripped and renewed over an 18 week programme. The project also included new fascias, soffits and rainwater goods, providing a durable and long lasting roofing solution for the building.
