New Roof Installations Preston
This page explains what goes into a well-installed roof, the choices you'll make and what to expect. If your existing roof needs stripping and replacing, see our roof replacement in Preston page as well.
What goes into a new roof
A pitched roof is a system of layers, and each one has a job. Getting every layer right is what makes the difference between a roof that lasts and one that gives trouble within a few years.
| Layer | What it does |
|---|---|
| Rafters or trusses | The structure that carries the weight of the roof |
| Breathable membrane | A second line of defence under the slates or tiles, letting moisture vapour out of the roof space |
| Battens | Timber strips fixed across the rafters at the right spacing for the slate or tile chosen |
| Slates or tiles | The weatherproof covering, fixed to suit the roof's pitch and exposure |
| Ridges, hips and verges | The edges and peaks, bedded or fixed so they stay put in high winds |
| Leadwork | Flashings, valleys and abutments where the roof meets walls, chimneys and windows |
| Ventilation | Airflow through the roof space to keep condensation down |
Choosing your roof covering
Natural slate
Slate is the traditional roof across Preston and Lancashire. We fit Welsh and Spanish slate. With proper maintenance, a well-laid slate roof can last 50+ years. See our slate roofing page.
Clay and concrete tiles
Tiles come in a wide range of profiles and colours, and suit most homes, extensions and new builds. Clay tends to be the premium choice and concrete the more affordable one. See our tile roofing page.
Flat roofs
For extensions, dormers and garages, we install flat roofs in felt, EPDM rubber and GRP fibreglass, laid to proper falls so water drains away. Our new flat roofs come with 20+ year guarantees. See our flat roofing page.
Where we install new roofs
- Houses: a complete new roof on an existing home, after the old one has been stripped.
- Extensions: pitched or flat roofs on single and two-storey extensions, matched to the house where it matters.
- Garages and outbuildings: see our garage and outbuilding roofing page.
- New builds: new roofs for self-builders and builders, fitted when the structure is ready. See our roofs for extensions and new builds page.
- Commercial buildings: see our commercial roofing page.
The details that matter most
Membrane and ventilation
A modern breathable membrane lets water vapour escape from the roof space while keeping wind-driven rain out. Combined with the right ventilation at the eaves and ridge, it helps stop condensation forming in the loft, which can rot timbers and soak insulation over time.
Battens and fixings
Battens have to be set at the right gauge for the slate or tile, and every slate or tile fixed the right way for the roof's pitch and exposure. Shortcuts here are invisible on day one and show up as slipped tiles a few years later.
Ridges, hips and verges
These are the parts most exposed to wind. They're bedded or fixed securely and finished neatly, so they don't work loose.
Leadwork
Where the roof meets a chimney, a wall or a window, lead flashing keeps the water out. We use Code 4 and Code 5 lead, dressed and fixed properly. See our leadwork roofing page.
Building regulations and planning
The Planning Portal says that in most situations, re-roofing needs building regulations approval. Re-covering a roof should also improve its thermal insulation, and changing to a significantly heavier or lighter covering can mean the roof structure needs checking. New roofs on extensions and new builds are normally covered by the building's own approval. We'll explain what applies to your job.
Like-for-like re-roofing doesn't usually need planning permission. If your home is listed or in a conservation area, changing the roof covering can need consent, so check with your council first.
Our warranty
Our premium roofing projects come with a 30-year warranty on materials and workmanship. Ask us for the details when we quote.
What to expect
- Free visit and quote. We look at the roof or plans, talk through the options and give you a clear quote.
- Planning the work. We agree dates, scaffolding and where materials will go.
- Installation. The roof goes on layer by layer, with your property protected throughout.
- Finishing and clear-up. Leadwork, gutters and details finished, waste removed, and a final check with you.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a new roof take to install?
It depends on the size, the covering and the weather. We'll give you a realistic timescale when we quote.
Slate or tiles for a new roof?
Slate gives a traditional look and a very long life; tiles offer more choice and usually cost less. We'll help you choose for your house and budget.
Do you install roofs on new builds?
Yes. We fit new roofs for homeowners, self-builders and builders.
Will I need building regulations approval?
For re-roofing, in most situations yes. New builds and extensions are normally covered by their own approval. We'll explain what applies.
Is there a warranty?
Our premium roofing projects come with a 30-year warranty on materials and workmanship.
Are your quotes free?
Yes. Call 07742 720 236 to book a free quote.
Planning a new roof in Preston?
Call Danny on 07742 720 236 or request a free quote. We cover Preston, Leyland, Chorley, Penwortham and the surrounding area.