Project Details

GNR were contracted to undertake the installation of a new zinc roof covering on this bespoke new build property between York and Leeds.

Our client contacted us at a very early stage of the project to assist with the design of the new zinc roof covering and build up of Insulation to ensure the requirements for a cold roof could be met.

Further, the project came with an added layer of complexity at design stage which required us to incorporate a concealed gutter lining to all elevations.

Working alongside the site joiner we were able to offer a solution for the roof, Insulation and the concealed gutter system and provide a detailed specification and costs for the same.

Moreover, the client requested the integration of several large roof light units, Supplied by The Rooflight Company into the elevations.

No detail existed for the installation of such units so we were tasked with creating one.

When we were originally contacted the structure was a steel frame with timber roof trusses and an outer skin of blockwork.

First, we set about designing the perimeter concealed gutter and ensuring that the heights were correct to make it work.

Moreover, we needed to create outlet details to oversell the outer skin of blockwork and ensure that we could then discharge the rainwater into the drainage below.

Further, as the gutters were concealed, fail safe details needed to be installed in case of blockages to ensure rainwater was taken away from the building and external facade which was set to be timber clad.

Furthermore, because the roof was of cold construction, ventilation details had to be incorporated at the eaves and apex of each elevation.

To keep the natural look of the building with the timber cladding on the elevations we specified a natural zinc roof covering.

The proposed metal, supplied by Metal Solutions and manufactured by ZM Silesia will mellow over time and take on its own patina.

Similarly, the timber cladding, which will be left unfinished, will do the same to create a natural looking building which blends with the environment.

Attention to detail was key to the success of this project.

Due to guidance on the maximum lengths of zinc trays we opted to install the gutters in Terne coated stainless steel. Purpose made outlets were formed from the same.

Moreover, the vent details at the eaves and apex were formed using stainless steel insect mesh.

Insulation was installed using an Actis Insulation System in between, on top and to the underside of the rafters.

The roof was then lined with an 18mm exterior plywood substrate on top of a 25mm x 50mm treated softwood counter batten.

Once installed, we were able to set about installing the gutter linings and standing seam zinc roof covering.

The images show the journey from roof structure through to completion of the roof, the other elements of work on the project remain ongoing….

Skills Required

• Joinery.
• Insulation using Actis Insulation.
• Design of ventilation systems for cold zinc roofing.
• Installation of Neo Roof windows.
• Formation of stainless steel gutter linings and soldered outlet details.
• Formation of standing seam zinc roof trays and details.

Materials Used

• ZM Silesia natural Zinc. 
• Actis insulation products.
• Exterior grade plywood.
• Terne coated stainless steel.
• The Rooflight Company Neo roof windows.
• Stainless steel insect mesh.
• Zinc fall pipes and outlets.