It’s been a busy few weeks at UKRS as we try to fit as much restoration in as possible into the fading summer daylight.
Colne Complete
We’ve almost finished our job in Colne, working on the damaged roof of Colne Municipal Hall. This Edwardian theatre in the centre of the town has suffered roof damage over the years which has led to water ingress. To remedy this, we took on the job of restoring the roof, mostly out of sight from pavement level. We’ve replaced and strengthened the guttering and replaced the worn out, warped lead (with artificial lead, to deter thieves), and grouted and pointed the walls around the main tower. It brings to an end a couple of months of work on the roof. Highlights of our restoration can be found on our YouTube channel.
Truss Triumph
One of the most dramatic events in the last month was taking an enormous truss up to the Grade II listed barn we’re restoring in the Yorkshire Dales. The tie beam alone weighed around 400kg and the truss was transported in parts through the winding country lanes. With half a dozen men in prime position, the massive bottom chord was winched into position and then the rafters and purlins slotted into place. The collapsed roof had two of its three original trusses still in place, one of which needed extensive restoration, but the third one was made from scratch in our joinery workshop. Watch the whole journey on our Videos page!
Pantile Progress
In Ripon, the “leaning” barn, as it was once called, is now looking a lot more like a barn. Recent weather has slowed the restoration down a little bit, but the wrap has come down and tiling has now begun. In fact, at time of writing, it’s almost complete. The largest slope has all its pantiles in place and our lads are working their way up the other side, dodging the rain as best they can. They’re working their way up and will hopefully begin on the ridge at the top next week.
And don’t forget, we’re still on the lookout for workers, so if you’re a roofer, builder, site manager or want to get involved in a secure, full-time restoration role, go to our Job Vacancies page and see what suits you!