The Brief
Lewtrenchard Manor is a remarkable historic estate located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. With a history spanning more than 900 years and references dating back to the Domesday Book, the manor is an important heritage asset that required specialist roofing expertise and careful conservation management.
Project Management & Building Etc was appointed to undertake a comprehensive roof restoration programme, ensuring the long-term protection of the building while preserving its historic character. The project demanded close collaboration with conservation specialists, heritage consultants, and environmental teams, all while adhering to strict conservation guidelines.
Our Work
The project involved a complete roof replacement, beginning with the careful stripping of the existing roof coverings back to the original roof structure. Extensive inspections revealed areas requiring significant repair and restoration, all of which were completed using traditional methods and materials appropriate to the age and significance of the building.
Our scope of works included:
- Full roof strip and re-roof back to the original roof structure.
- Complex and intricate leadwork installations throughout the roof system.
- Significant structural roof repairs carried out in keeping with the historic fabric of the building.
- Construction and restoration of extensive hidden valley gutters.
- Installation and repair of parapet lead roofing systems.
- Renewal of internal lead gutter systems.
- Weatherproofing measures designed to withstand the challenging conditions experienced on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.
- Coordination with ecological specialists to ensure the protection of bat populations throughout the works.
Given the heritage status of the property, every stage of the project was undertaken in close consultation with conservation officers, Savills, the client team, and English Heritage representatives. Strict conservation requirements governed both the materials used and the methods of construction, ensuring the integrity and historical significance of the manor were preserved.
The Outcome
The completed works have secured the long-term protection of Lewtrenchard Manor, safeguarding one of Devon's most significant historic buildings from the elements while maintaining its architectural heritage.
Through meticulous craftsmanship, specialist leadwork expertise, and careful coordination with conservation bodies and environmental specialists, the project successfully delivered a durable and sympathetic roofing solution. The restored roof not only protects the building for future generations but also respects the rich history and character that make Lewtrenchard Manor such an exceptional landmark.
The result is a fully restored roofing system that meets modern performance standards while remaining faithful to the building's centuries-old heritage.
