This barn is a once in a lifetime type of project. A grand total of 12,000 new Delabole scantle peggies with mitred hips, all fixed with oak pegs hanging on split oak laths. We clipped the heels of the gable ranger slates to give an ornate look to the gable end. The courses were diminishing in size from 22 inch down to 7 inch on the ridgeline. The gable slates corresponding with the diminishing field slates. The project took a full 5 months of effort from 4 men including myself.
I’m Russell Blackaller, a heritage roofing specialist and writer with a passion for preserving traditional craft skills and sharing knowledge about the trade. As the director of Heritage Roofing Southwest Ltd, I’ve spent years working on some of the UK’s most significant historic buildings, combining hands-on expertise with a deep respect for architectural heritage.
Alongside my work on the tools and overseeing complex conservation projects, I’m a regular contributor to industry-leading publications, including Roofing Today and the SPAB Members’ Magazine and I am the co-curator of , Traditional Roofing Magazine supplement. I also write blogs for Master Roofers UK and craft detailed case studies that celebrate the craftsmanship and stories behind each project.
Combining studying for my masters in conservation in building and my passion for writing, I aim to inspire, educate, and advocate for the highest standards in heritage roofing and building conservation.
