Lees Building Contractors Ltd carried out an extensive renovation and refurbishment on an occupied residential property in Clevedon. Works included the dismantling and rebuilding of gable ends and stone-front bays, reshaping the roof structure with steel portal frames, re-slating with traditional Welsh slate, and comprehensive leadwork on bays, dormers, gutters, valleys and chimneys.


Key Works & Features

  • Gable Ends & Stone Front Bays
    Carefully dismantled original gable walls and stone bay façades; rebuilt each element using matching reclaimed stone and lime mortar for historic accuracy.

  • Steel Portal Frame Roof Reshaping
    Installed precision-engineered steel portal frames within the roof space to open up interior volumes and support new roof geometry.

  • Traditional Slate Re-Covering
    Removed old coverings and laid natural Welsh slates on breathable underlay, complete with handcrafted ridge and hip tiles.

  • Comprehensive Leadwork
    Fabricated and dressed lead flashings on bay windows, dormer cheeks, gutter abutments, valley linings and chimney weatherings to BS EN 12588 standards.

  • Live-Inhabitant Coordination
    Phased work to maintain access and hygiene during occupation, with daily site cleans and protective dust barriers.


Specialist Techniques & Materials

  • Heritage Masonry:
    Reuse of original stone blocks, lime-based pointing and lime putty repairs to preserve breathability.

  • Portal Frame Installation:
    On-site assembly of galvanized steel beams, bolted to new padstones, with vibration isolation to protect neighboring structures.

  • Slate Tiling:
    Welsh slate laid with stainless‑steel nails and traditional copper point-and-dash ridge pointing for longevity.

  • Lead Fabrication:
    Soft-rolled 3 mm code-grade lead, dressed with secret gutters and expansion joints to accommodate thermal movement.

  • Occupancy Management:
    Temporary walkways, covered hoardings and dust‑extraction units to minimise disruption to residents.


Why This Project Stands Out

  • Sympathetic Restoration: Meticulous reconstruction of decorative stone bays and gables, blending seamlessly with the original architecture.

  • Structural Innovation: Steel frames enabled open-plan layouts without compromising heritage aesthetics.

  • Craftsmanship Excellence: Traditional slate and leadwork deliver a period-correct finish with modern performance.

  • Client-Focused Execution: Phased programming and strict site protocols ensured the home remained liveable throughout the works.


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Transform your period property with Lees Building Contractors Ltd’s expert renovation services:

Lees Building Contractors Ltd – Delivering Heritage-Sensitive Refurbishments Across the West Country.