North Devon
Products Used
Set within the historic setting of Berry Farm near Hartland on the exposed North Devon coast, The Cottage at Berry Barns presented a roofing challenge defined by heritage sensitivity and extreme weather exposure.
Dating from the mid-18th century and surrounded by traditional agricultural buildings, the property demanded a solution that would honour its architectural legacy while withstanding the relentless coastal winds that characterise this dramatic landscape.
Main contractor Hiax Preservation Ltd specified SSQ’s Riverstone 1st Natural Slate, selected for its proven suitability on listed and historic buildings. The natural tonal variation and texture of the slate complement the age and character of the cottage and the surrounding barns, ensuring the renewed roofscape sits comfortably within its agricultural context.
Given the site’s severe exposure, which is often battered by high winds, a traditional scantle slating method was employed, one of the oldest and most robust forms of slate application. Riverstone 1st slates were bedded in haired lime mortar and secured with copper clout nails, combining mechanical fixing with the additional wind resistance provided by mortar bedding. This approach significantly reduces the risk of wind lift, a critical consideration at Berry Farm where the weather frequently subjects buildings to intense conditions.
Completed on time and within budget, the client was extremely happy with the look of the building and the quality of work and materials used and as a result has since commissioned further works at Berry Farm.
The result is a roof that is both technically resilient and architecturally authentic and the Cottage stands as a testament to how SSQ’s Riverstone 1st Natural Slate can unite traditional craftsmanship, heritage compliance and enduring performance in one of the South West’s most demanding coastal environments.
