
Ryearch was appointed to renew the copper roof and undertake associated works at this grade II* listed Catholic church in Cornwall, built over 100 years ago.
Following a successful major internal and external refurbishment to the church in 2020/21, Ryearch was asked to look at the large north east dome roof covering as it was approaching its useful lifespan without constant maintenance.
Works specification:
- Renewal of the copper and associated lead flashing and gutters.
- Weatherproofing the copper encased cross on the apex of the dome.
- Existing coverings were removed and replaced with 0.7mm thick copper sheeting laid in 16 curved diminishing sections divided into 5 panels with intermediate oak rolls, along with the cross and its pattress.
- Repair of fragmented sections of curved corbel stone and decorative dentils below, using stone and compounds.
- Complete replacement of some corbels and dentils using New Forest of Dean stone.
- Replacement of code 5 lead coverings to the circular corbel.
Pre-construction: Ryearch’s specialist Heritage Surveyor, Graham Howarth, first started formulating the works package in late 2022, working closely with the church and their advisors Scott & Co (Chartered Building Surveyors and Historic Building Consultants), and all relevant authorities.
Approvals for the works to proceed were received in early 2024, ready for a summer start. Works commenced with an enabling scaffold, which provided high security protection against intruders.
Collaboration: Ryearch was on board with the project from day one, building on our strong partnership with the Church from the previous refurbishment project. Initially there was no contract, no retentions, no competition and no commitment, so the project proceeded with huge trust on all sides.
Project team: Our Heritage Surveyor managed the team of highly specialist and skilled stonemasons (C.F. Piper & Son) and copper and lead plumbers (Dimensions Lead). Ryearch has worked with both suppliers over many years and were selected from our Approved Contractor List. Ryearch also appointed a small scaffolding company (M&J Scaffolding Services), which was local to the project.
Quality: Graham was on-site each day to supervise, manage and inspect the works. The quality of craftmanship was also assessed during the periodic visits and inspections by Scott & Co, which were noted as being exceptional.
H&S: Ryearch created a site-specific safety plan for this project, which focused on working at heights and keeping the congregation safe, as the Church remained open and operational throughout the works. Disruption to worshippers was managed by ceasing works during all church services and mass.
The scaffolding was inspected each week, as part of our standard approach to maintaining a safe site.
Managing challenges: The site team uncovered faults with some of the curved corbel stones and decorative dentils, following the removal of the existing roof coverings. Ryearch incorporated this additional work within the project programme; to minimise ongoing disruption to the Church.
Outcome: The project was completed within the negotiated package for content, time and cost, with the Church and their specialist team being delighted with the outcome.
Project Elements:
- Client: St Cuthbert Mayne Roman Catholic Church
- Chartered Building Surveyors & Historic Building Consultants: Scott & Co
- Project dates: July 2024 – October 2024
- Value: £65,000
Pictures: Grade II* listed church refurbishment; building heritage works in Cornwall