From the Ground Up – #25

A Warmer Roof, Taller Frames and a Cottage Extension Taking Shape

An old polycarbonate roof is gone in Henfield, extra tall black frames are in at Leatherhead, and the aluminium frames have landed in Chichester. Three different builds, all coming together nicely.

End of the week, so let’s take a look at what’s been happening.

• The old polycarbonate roof came off this week and a lightweight super insulated tiled roof system went on in its place.
• The system is light enough that the existing frames carry it without any extra support. That meant the customer kept the frames he already had and put the money into the roof instead.
• The flat roof attached to it was looking dated, so we re-leaded it and agreed the cost up front. One team, one package, no chasing separate trades to finish the job off.
• Dry lining went in straight after, so the ceiling is smart, smooth and ready for decorating.
• A polycarbonate roof is loud in the rain and hard to heat. This one will be quieter, warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and actually usable all year round.

• The customer already had a concrete base down, so we checked it over and built off what was there rather than digging out and starting again.
• The structure is predominantly glazed with a lightweight flat roof, so the existing base was well up to the job. That saved time, cost and a lot of mess in the garden.
• Black frames went in with matching leadwork, which ties the new structure into the house rather than leaving it looking bolted on.
• Look closely and the frames are over 2.4m tall. That gives the roof plenty of height and clears the existing house windows, so the space feels bigger, lighter and more airy.
• The flat roof is insulated, so this is a room that works in January as well as July.

• The frames are in on this conservatory, fully aluminium in grey, contrasting against the period cottage and the flint retaining walls we built earlier on.
• We used a high end Cortizo aluminium system. It is built to last and copes well with sea air, which matters this close to the coast.
• We have also added a cornice. It lifts the whole thing and gives it a bit more character, which suits an older, more rustic cottage.
• Picking a system for where a house actually sits, rather than what looks good on the day, is what keeps frames working properly years down the line.
• A couple more days left on plastering and electrics, then this one is finished. It is going to be an absolute showstopper.

That’s a Wrap For This Week

That’s it for this week’s round-up! It’s always exciting to see these spaces take shape. From first foundations to final finishes. Whether you’re mid-project, just getting started, or simply gathering ideas, we hope these updates give you a clear view of what’s possible.

👉 Book a free 30-minute consultation with one of our team. We’ll help you explore ideas, understand the process, and see what’s possible for your home.

Check back next week for more real progress from real homes – From The Ground Up.