Repair Using Replacement Materials
When you carry out repairs, we encourage the use of authentic and appropriate materials. They are fundamental to the historic integrity of buildings and in most cases are the most suitable in terms of performance.
Changes of material
We discourage the use of new materials where their long-term performance is not known. If you are proposing a change of material for any of the main external elements of your building, you may need planning permission and listed building consent or denominational consent. See our Getting Permission to Make Changes page for more information.
We would not oppose changes of material where the existing material is inappropriate and the replacement would reinforce the significance of the building.
Metal theft
When lead or copper roof coverings have been stolen, we understand it may be too risky to replace with the same materials. We have found that the most appropriate and long-lasting alternative is terne-coated stainless steel (TCSS). In some circumstances, natural slates or clay tiles may be suitable alternatives, if they are historically, geologically and technically appropriate. A well-detailed design, good specification and experienced contractors are key to ensuring the performance of the replacement roof covering.
We will support the installation of TCSS or other appropriate alternatives where a church has already suffered lead or copper theft; or when a roof covering has reached the end of its useful life and needs to be replaced, and the church is in an area of evidenced high risk of metal theft.
Our advice notes on Theft of Metal from Church Roofs set out our approach and provide further information on replacement materials.
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Theft of Metal from Church Roofs: Prevention and ResponsePublished 10 September 2021
This note deals with measures to prevent theft and how to respond if a theft has taken place.
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Theft of Metal from Church Roofs: Replacement MaterialsPublished 10 September 2021
This note deals mainly with replacing lead and copper roofs on historic churches but also applies to other buildings with traditional metal roofs.
Sourcing traditional materials
There is now a wide variety of suppliers of many different types of material for traditional construction: lime for mortars; hair for plasters; clay roofing tiles and so on. Details can be found in specialist directories such as The Building Conservation Directory.
Your local conservation officer may be able to help in sourcing a material that is particular to your area, such as a type of brick that was produced locally, or a particular type of stone. You may wish to look at our page on Sourcing Traditional Materials.
