BS 5534 compliant tile and slate installations — mechanically fixed to current standards with our 15-year guarantee and insurance-backed protection.
Pitched roof failures typically stem from a handful of recurring issues: nail fatigue causing slipped tiles, underlay degradation allowing wind-driven rain ingress, inadequate ventilation causing condensation in the roof void, and lead flashing failures at abutments and valleys.
Every Ikon pitched roof installation addresses these failure points head-on, with full compliance to BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 — the current code of practice for slating and tiling.
The 2015 revision of BS 5534 removed the old "1 in 5" nail rule for most exposure zones. Under the current standard, all tiles and slates now require mechanical fixing — either nailed, clipped, or a combination depending on the exposure calculation for your specific location, pitch, and tile profile.
We carry out BS 5534 exposure calculations on every project to determine the correct fixing specification. This isn't optional — it's a code requirement that many installers either don't know about or choose to ignore.
Incorrect ventilation is one of the most common defects we find during surveys. For cold roof constructions, Approved Document F and BS 5250 require 10mm continuous eaves ventilation plus 5mm high-level ventilation at the ridge (or equivalent free areas).
On warm roof constructions with breathable membrane, the ventilation requirement may be reduced or eliminated — but only if the membrane is BS 5250 compliant and approved by the manufacturer for that specific application. Counter-battens are typically required to maintain the drainage path between membrane and tile.
When a repair isn't enough and the existing covering has reached end of life, a full strip and re-roof is the most cost-effective long-term solution. This involves stripping the entire roof back to the rafters, inspecting and replacing any damaged timbers, installing breathable membrane, battens, and new tiles or slates. Where the roof includes flat sections, we integrate these with our torch-on flat roofing systems for a seamless finish.
All chimney junctions, valleys, and abutments are detailed in lead — read more about our leadwork service. For an idea of costs, see our guide on how much a new roof costs in Kent.
When we strip a pitched roof, we go right back to the rafters. This allows us to inspect the timber structure, replace any defective members, upgrade insulation if needed, and install a completely new underlay, batten, and tile system from scratch. It's the only way to guarantee the entire build-up is sound.
Common questions about our pitched roofing services.
Pitched roofing costs typically range from £120–£275 per square metre (inc. VAT) depending on the tile or slate type, the complexity of the roof, and whether it's a full strip or overlay. We provide detailed written quotes after a free on-site survey.
A properly installed pitched roof with quality concrete tiles can last 40–60 years. Natural slate roofs can exceed 80–100 years. Lifespan depends on the quality of installation, materials, and regular maintenance.
Yes. We install dry ridge, dry verge, and dry hip systems as standard on all new pitched roofing work. Dry fix systems are mechanically fixed and don't rely on mortar, which means they're maintenance-free and fully compliant with current building regulations.
Every pitched roof installation comes with three layers of protection: a 15-year workmanship guarantee, a 15-year manufacturer-backed materials warranty, and a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee (IBG) — meaning you're covered even if the company ceased trading.
In most cases, yes. We source tiles from all major manufacturers and can often find close matches for existing roof coverings. Where an exact match isn't available, we'll advise on the best alternatives and show you samples before work begins.
Yes. We cover the full DA, BR, SE, ME, and TN postcode areas including Sidcup, Orpington, Bromley, Dartford, Medway, Rochester, Welling, Chislehurst, and surrounding towns.
Book a free inspection. Expert advice from someone who's been on roofs for 18+ years.
Real reviews from homeowners across Kent and South East London.
