Project Overview
Our team was appointed to carry out a full roof replacement and spray foam removal on a residential property with approximately 140m² of closed-cell spray foam insulation applied directly to the roof membrane. The works included the removal and safe reinstallation of solar panels, stripping out the old roof covering and insulation, and installing a new breathable roofing system. The project was completed in close coordination with local building control to ensure all regulations were met and certification was secured.
Scope of Work
Scaffolding and Site Preparation
- Erected two-lift scaffolding to gutter height, including beam work across the conservatory to provide safe access at the rear.
- Installed debris netting for site protection and to prevent spray foam waste from spreading to neighbouring properties.
- Supplied weatherproof tarpaulins and driveway protection to safeguard the property during works.
- Supplied skips for waste disposal, with all waste removed under our licensed waste carriers.
Solar Panel Handling
- Removed existing solar panels with care and stored them securely in the garden.
- Reinstalled panels upon project completion, replacing any perishable fixings to ensure continued performance.
Removal of Existing Roof Covering and Insulation
- Stripped existing concrete tiles and battens, placing waste directly into skips.
- Removed closed-cell spray foam insulation and the original membrane from the roof structure.
- Carried out careful scraping and cleaning of rafters, hips, and ridge boards to fully expose the timber structure.
- Treated rafters with a universal 5-star wood preservative where required.
Installation of New Roofing System
- Installed over fascia vent strips, felt support trays, and a Marley breathable felt membrane to enhance roof ventilation.
- Supplied and fixed new 25mm x 50mm treated battens.
- Reused existing large concrete plain tiles, reinstating them in line with manufacturer guidance and the code of practice for tiling and slating.
- Installed a vented dry ridge system and new vented verge ends to ensure optimal airflow and long-term durability.
Insulation Upgrade
- Supplied and installed Knauf mineral wool loft insulation to a minimum depth of 300mm, ensuring compliance with current building regulations.
- Installed new insulation over existing loft boarding where required.
- Created safe scaffold-board working platforms in loft areas.
Final Preparations and Clean-up
- Prepared the roof for universal 5-star roof treatment.
- Conducted a full gutter clean and thorough site tidy.
- Liaised with local building control officers throughout, securing a formal LABC completion certificate.
- Provided a detailed site audit report with before, during, and after photographs.
- Issued a 10-year Confederation of Roofers insurance-backed guarantee for peace of mind.
Challenges and Solutions
The removal of closed-cell spray foam directly bonded to the membrane required careful, controlled techniques to avoid damage to the roof timbers. Our specialist team ensured full removal while preserving the structural integrity of the roof.
Working around existing solar panels required additional planning. The panels were carefully dismantled, stored safely, and reinstalled with new external fixings to maintain long-term performance.
Close liaison with local building control was essential. All works were inspected and approved, with certification issued to support mortgage applications and future property sales.
Conclusion
This project was delivered to a high standard, with all waste responsibly removed and full compliance with building regulations achieved. The new breathable roof system and upgraded insulation improve the property's energy efficiency, ventilation, and long-term structural protection. The client now has full certification and guarantees in place, ensuring the property can be sold or remortgaged without issue