LCA Murdoch award winners turn their hand to conserving and restoring the roof of Salisbury Cathedral Museum

Established in 1860, the Salisbury Museum also features notable exhibits that will captivate future generations eager to learn about Salisbury’s rich medieval history and connect with their past. The museum showcases its architectural marvels, including the renowned Salisbury Cathedral, which boasts the tallest spire in the United Kingdom. The Salisbury Museum is located in a Grade I- listed building called The King’s House.

Originally, the museum began as a collection of local antiquities, sparked by the passion of local historians, educators, and collectors. Over the years, it has evolved into a significant cultural institution, housing various programs and exhibitions that invite visitors of all ages to explore the region’s extensive array of artifacts spanning thousands of years of human history. As a vital cultural hub, the Salisbury Museum not only preserves history but also fosters a deeper understanding of local heritage, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to resonate in the present.

One of the museum’s standout collections is its extensive array of items from the Stonehenge World Heritage Site, including prehistoric artifacts that shed light on the lives of the ancient people who inhabited this iconic landscape. The museum remains a cornerstone of Salisbury’s identity and a beacon of cultural heritage.

The recent project to conserve and restore the museum's roof by Jackson + Dix Roofing Ltd took nine months to complete, spanning all seasons. The company's Lewis Dix takes up the story: "We encountered significant challenges, particularly with access to the site, which was difficult due to the extensive timber work required.

"Putting our mark on one of the historic buildings of Salisbury felt incredibly humbling. It always feels wonderful to know that you were a part of hundreds of years of conservation and restoration efforts. At any given time, we had a team of seven skilled roofers working onsite, each with specialized qualifications, including Heritage Gold Level 3 in leadwork and Level 2 certifications in slating and tiling.

"Regarding the materials used, the architect specified all the materials for the project. We utilized Roof Shield membrane for less sensitive areas and IF felt for areas subject to wildlife restrictions. Nicholson Airtrak was employed on the ridge line, providing state-of-the-art ventilation. Natural Hydraulic Lime (NHL) 3.5 and locally washed and graded sand mortar were used to bed the ridge tiles and point the gables.

"Old Kent pegs were reinstated with traditionally fixed oak pegs. To cover larger areas on the roof, Heritage Clay tiles were purchased and fixed with aluminum nails. Lastly, Associated Lead Mills (ALM) provided all the milled lead.

 "The most significant challenge we faced during the project was access. We had to ensure that we worked in a logical sequence while prioritizing safety, especially when using scaffolding in reverse to reach various areas. Stripping the roof was particularly challenging due to its scale and the lack of easily accessible platforming points. Consequently, we had to map out most of the roof from the top down and tile as we went, finishing at the eaves. As we progressed downwards, the scaffolding was adapted to accommodate our needs.

"The weather posed another significant challenge. With numerous artifacts housed within the building, we had to take utmost care to keep all the water out while sympathetically repairing the timbers. However, it was a rewarding yet challenging project. 

"Other options considered for material were lead for the flat roofs due to its exceptional durability, excellent thermal conductivity, and remarkable longevity. Additionally, I would have preferred reclaimed pegs to maintain the historical authenticity of the project. Furthermore, I would have incorporated IF felt throughout for enhanced protection.

"The whole project gave an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. This project was particularly challenging, and completing one of the largest tile jobs to date was a significant relief for the entire team. It was humbling to put our mark on one of the historic buildings of Salisbury. Knowing that we were a part of hundreds of years of conservation and restoration efforts was truly gratifying.

"Jackson + Dix Roofing also wants to express their deepest gratitude to H Mealings, the primary contractor, and the architects for their collaborative efforts on this project. I also want to thank my incredibly talented team: Mike King (Tiler Supervisor), Dan Farmer, Liam Barson, Josh Wajtknecht, Nick Stevens, Carl Marchent, and Tony Anstess. Their unwavering hard work and dedication were instrumental in the project’s success."

For more exciting projects from this LCA Murdoch Award winner visit www.jacksondixroofingltd.co.uk