The Wokingham Baptist Church, a listed building in the heart of Wokingham, required restoration work on its gables to address weathering and structural wear. The existing coping stones had reached the end of their lifespan, necessitating a thoughtful and regulated approach to repair and restore this historic structure. This case study details the steps taken to preserve the church's architectural character while ensuring its structural integrity.

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Project Overview

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The project focused on the restoration of the gables, which had suffered from years of exposure to the elements. The key tasks included:

1. Removing the existing coping stones that were no longer fit for purpose.
2. Conducting localised slate repairs and adding soakers to improve weatherproofing.
3. Replacing the old stones with handmade Portland stone installed over new lead capping and flashings.
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The work was carried out in compliance with heritage regulations to maintain the historic and architectural significance of this listed building.

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Problem Identification

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Several issues necessitated this restoration:

1. Worn Coping Stones: The existing stone coping had deteriorated over time, compromising its ability to protect the gables from water ingress and weather damage.
2. Slate Repairs Needed: A few areas of the slate roofing adjacent to the gables were damaged, contributing to water leaks and potential structural issues.
3. Heritage Regulations: As a listed building, the restoration needed to align with strict guidelines to preserve the historical and aesthetic integrity of the structure.

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Solution Implementation

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To address these challenges, the following steps were undertaken:

1. Removal of Old Coping Stones: The existing stones were carefully removed, ensuring no further damage to the underlying structure. This step provided a clean slate for the new installation.
2. Localised Slate Repairs and Soakers: Damaged slates near the gables were replaced, and soakers were installed to improve water management and prevent future leaks.
3. Handmade Portland Stone Installation: Handmade Portland stone was chosen for its durability and historical accuracy. These stones were meticulously installed over new lead capping and flashings, ensuring a weatherproof and visually cohesive finish.
4. Adherence to Listed Building Regulations: Throughout the project, all work was performed in compliance with heritage guidelines to maintain the building’s historical significance.

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Detailed Implementation

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Removal of Old Coping Stones

The old coping stones were carefully dismantled and removed to avoid disrupting the gable structure. This process required precision and attention to detail to prepare the surface for the new installation.

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Slate Repairs and Soakers

Damaged slates adjacent to the gables were replaced with locally sourced slate, matching the original material. Soakers were strategically added to channel water away from vulnerable areas, enhancing the roof’s overall durability.

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Handmade Portland Stone Installation

Handmade Portland stone was selected for its close resemblance to the original coping stones, ensuring historical continuity. Each stone was installed over a new lead capping and flashing system, which provided a robust barrier against water ingress while complementing the church's aesthetic.

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Results and Evaluation

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The restoration work was completed successfully, achieving the following:

• Enhanced weatherproofing through the use of new lead capping, flashings, and soakers.
• Preservation of the church's historical integrity with the use of handmade Portland stone.
• Compliance with listed building regulations, ensuring the project met all heritage guidelines.

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The restored gables now provide a durable and visually harmonious addition to the church, blending seamlessly with its original architecture. The project reinforced the structure’s ability to withstand the elements while maintaining its historical charm.

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Restoring listed buildings requires a unique blend of craftsmanship, knowledge of heritage guidelines, and attention to detail. The restoration of the Wokingham Baptist Church gables demonstrates our ability to preserve historical architecture while delivering modern performance.

If you have a listed property or heritage building in need of restoration or repair, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss how we can protect and enhance your property’s legacy.

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