Transforming from the Top: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Roof Refurbishment

This week marks the beginning of an exciting new project, a full roof refurbishment that promises a dramatic transformation. These types of projects are some of our favourites, not just because of the scale and complexity, but because they allow us to breathe new life into a building from the top down. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing a tired, weathered roof evolve into a sleek, protected surface that’s built to last.

But before the coatings go on and the final finish gleams in the sunlight, there’s a lot of groundwork to be done. Roof refurbishment is as much about preparation and safety as it is about aesthetics and performance. Here’s a closer look at what goes into a successful refurbishment and why our meticulous approach makes all the difference.

Getting up onto a roof is no small feat. Safety is paramount, and we never compromise when it comes to protecting our teams and our clients. Depending on the structure and height of the building, we may use scaffolding, mobile platforms, or specialist access equipment. In many cases, railing systems or mansafe systems are essential to ensure safe working conditions.

If your roof doesn’t already have a mansafe system installed, we can include that as part of our contract. It’s a smart investment, not just for the current project, but for any future maintenance work. Rooflight safety is another critical consideration. Rooflights can be deceptively fragile and pose a significant risk to anyone working near them. We always assess their condition and take appropriate precautions to prevent accidents.

Before any physical work begins, we conduct a thorough site survey. This allows us to understand the roof’s condition, identify any hazards, and plan the refurbishment in detail. Our preparation includes risk assessments, method statements, and all necessary documentation to ensure compliance and transparency.

Solar panels are another factor we often encounter. On this particular project, the roof had panels in situ, which needed to be carefully removed before any repair or coating work could begin. We handle this with precision, ensuring the panels are safely stored and reinstalled if required.

Once access is secured and the site is fully prepared, we turn our attention to the roof itself. Cleaning is a crucial step, any loose paint, debris, or contaminants must be removed to ensure proper adhesion of the coating systems. We use specialist equipment to clean the surface thoroughly, leaving it ready for treatment.

Repairs come next. Whether it’s sealing joints, replacing damaged sections, or treating corrosion, we address every issue before moving on to coatings. This stage is where our technical expertise shines, as we tailor our approach to the specific materials and conditions of each roof.

With the surface prepped and repaired, it’s time for the main event, the application of our specialist coating systems. These coatings are designed not only to enhance the appearance of the roof but to provide long-term protection against the elements. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and formulated to suit a variety of roof types.

We don’t stop at the roof surface. Gutters are often included in our refurbishment work, and for good reason. Blocked gutters can lead to standing water, which in turn causes corrosion, especially on the cut edges of metal roof sheets. By treating and coating these areas, we help prevent future damage and extend the life of the entire roofing system.

At Cladding Coatings, we pride ourselves on preparation. It’s the foundation of every successful project and the reason we consistently deliver high-quality finishes. From safety systems and site surveys to cleaning, repairs, and coatings, every step is carefully planned and executed.

Roof refurbishment is more than just a facelift, it’s a strategic investment in the longevity and performance of your building. And when done right, the results are truly impressive.
To learn more about our services or see examples of our work.