Complete DIY Roof Replacement - Using Timber and Ceramic Tiles

The original kitchen roof on our farmhouse was full of holes, rotten wood and broken tiles. Everything was stained with soot from the massive open fire – it wasn’t pretty!

Wanting to make this old granite stone structure a usable part of the house, we had no choice but to remove the roof completely. We actually planned for this structure to be the focal part of the house, our dream kitchen!

We began removing the ceramic roof tiles, taking care to save as many as possible. We planned to clean these up and reuse them. Although some parts of the roof came apart easily, others were still very firmly fixed in place despite being very old. The giant ridge beam in particular required a great deal of effort to move.

After cleaning out what now resembled a ruin, we began to build up the old stone walls so they were level. We installed a wall plate on each side and a heavy ridge piece along the middle.

We then cut, treated, painted and installed new rafters to support the tiles.

Next the membrane went on, as well as batons to hold the tiles. The old tiles cleaned up well and were carefully hung in position. We installed a skylight and chimney for our new (secondhand) wood burning stove.

We finished the build with tiles around the edges and a pineapple capping piece.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

You can see the full process in more detail over on our YouTube channel.