Before

The Project

We have had the pleasure of working on the lead and blue slate roof of this Grade II Listed Hawking Tower in the heart of Northamptonshire. Built around 1720 it is now very much a family home rather than a 3 story castellated tower, originally used as a falconry spectating point!

After

A Piece Of History

Before the existing lead roofs were stripped, we had the pleasure of discovering the last lead workers’ footprints, which had been left in the lead and dated as a historical reference to how long ago the roof was re-leaded – 1823/1826!

Re-Casting And Fitting The ‘New’ Lead

Along with restoring the lead roofs – by means of all existing lead being stripped out and removed from the site to be taken to a professional lead maker to be re-cast, the old fashioned way of melting the lead down to liquid, before pouring the molten lead over a perfectly flat bed of sand to create a ‘new’ sheet of lead. The timber structure beneath the lead was reinforced and strengthened, using reclaimed oak wood boards, before a base of brown paper laid ready to receive the immaculately hand dressed ‘new’ lead. The existing Blue Slate turret, was also stripped back to its rafters so new breathable felt could be laid, with batten, ready to receive a new covering of the highest quality reclaimed blue slate, with lead details.

The Blue Slate Turret

The existing Blue Slate turret, was also stripped back to its rafters. This is so new breathable felt could be laid, with batten. Ensuring the roof was ready to receive a new covering of the highest quality reclaimed blue slate, with lead details.

Lead Balustrade Roof

The balustrade roof on the top of the tower, which has suffered the elements for many a year also received a new Lead flashing on top of the existing stone work to preserve the roof for generations to come. 

Expert Workmanship

Every millimetre of the lead and slate roofs have been poured over meticulous details everywhere you look, all clipped and fashioned by hand to create the perfect long lasting roof covering. It has been a pleasure collaborating with the team at Symmetry Lead work on this project and look forward to many more to come. Heritage Roofing Services – Stamford are proud to use time learnt skills and materials to continue the preservation of Historic Buildings around the counties.

Do You Have a Heritage Roof That Needs Expert Care? Or Historic Leadwork that requires an expert?

Whether you’re dealing with a historic listed building or a quaint cottage, our team specialises in traditional roofing, including Welsh blue slate tiles and leadwork. From full roof replacements to careful repairs, we combine time-tested craftsmanship with a deep respect for historic materials and methods, ensuring every detail is done right.

Contact us today to discuss your project. We’re here to help you preserve and enhance the beauty and long-term value of your property – with care, precision, and pride in every slate.