Old House Project - Ragstone and Roofing

Our Old House Project is rescuing and repairing a Grade II* building ‘at risk’, but it is the education and training, and the opportunity to demonstrate the SPAB Approach to building conservation, that give it added value for us. The skilful work carried out by the many craftspeople involved in the project so far has exemplified SPAB principles. That most recently undertaken by Owlsworth IJP and their subcontractors adds to the range of materials and techniques on show.

The project’s overall aim, in line with the SPAB Approach, has been to minimize loss of building fabric. Where necessary, St Andrew’s characterfully weathered stonework has been consolidated with mortar or tile repairs. In a few areas though, where there has been greater structural need, our architect and 2002 Scholar Malcolm Fryer, working with engineer Ed Morton, has decided that a replacement stone is required. For this, new ragstone has been obtained from Gallagher’s nearby Hermitage Quarry – the one site in south east England still producing ragstone for building. It is a hard stone, known for being difficult to carve, but mason Jim Roberts has produced beautiful work. The new stones will have a strong visual impact where they sit within the old wall, but they are honest additions, expertly carved. When finally fixed, using the chalk-lime mortar we have burnt on site, they will be unmistakeable as new work but part of the structural whole.

Work has also occurred to the windows – in situ wherever possible – with wonderfully well-crafted repair carried out by Owlsworth. Glazing is being undertaken by Robert Croudace, a local Kent-based specialist.

Owlsworth has also resolved a problem in an area of the house that has suffered for decades, if not centuries. An awkward roof junction has previously caused water penetration problems in the north west corner of the building’s 15th century timber-framed section. Evidence that the problem in this corner has been present over a long period is shown by the past replacement with a brick pier of a main timber post to the frame – probably around 100 years ago. The junction has now been reworked with a lead hopper introduced to collect water from the valley. It should help the building’s roof and rainwater drainage system perform more satisfactorily in this area.

The Old House Project is a featured case study in this year’s Heritage Counts publication.

First published in SPAB members-only magazine. Become a member to see the latest SPAB Magazine and get access to digital back issues.