March 2026
St Fillans RC Church in Houston, Renfrewshire, is one ofScotland’s oldest Catholic churches, with roots dating back to 1841. Its historic roofscape characterised by pitched slate elevations, decorative leadwork and traditional stonework, represents both architectural significanc eand a significant maintenance challenge for the Diocese of Paisley.
Roofing Advisors were appointed to deliver Phase 1 of a comprehensive church renovation programme: a full re-roofing contract covering slate installation, leadwork, stonework repairs, rainwater goods renewal and flat roof works across the building. The project was delivered over 14 weeks, running from November through to March 2026.
Scope of Works
Our Contracting division delivered a comprehensive Phase 1 package of works, including:
Ballachulish Scotch slate was specified as the primary roofing material; a traditional choice appropriate to the building’s heritage status. Wherever possible, original slates were salvaged, dressed and reinstalled: 40% of the existing tiles were retained and reused, reducing waste and preserving the authentic character of the church’s roofscape.
Structural timber deterioration.
When the roof was stripped, the extent of rotted and damp timber work was significant. Around 70% of the structural rafters and sarking required full renewal. Our team worked through the structural repairs methodically, ensuring the building was watertight and structurally sound before re-slating commenced.
Turnpike roof structural rebuild.
The turnpike - the church’s distinctive conical roof feature - presented a particular challenge. The underlying timber structure was found to be severely compromised by rot, requiring a complete rebuild from structural timbers upward. The rebuilt turnpike was then weathered with Code 8 lead, providing a durable and period-appropriate finish.
Stonework cleaning and paint removal.
The church stonework carried multiple layers of non-hazardous exterior paint which required careful removal. The Tevac system was used to separate the paint layers from the stone, followed by a heated water wash at 110°C - a method that effectively cleaned the stonework without causing damage to the historic fabric of the building.
Working on a live heritage building.
A HIKA temporary roof canopy was installed over the works, enabling the re-roofing programme to proceed safely through the winter months whilst protecting the building interior and allowing works to continue regardless of weather conditions.
A Restored Roofscape for a Historic Church
The completed Phase 1 works have returned St Fillans RC Church to a weathertight, structurally sound condition - preserving a building of genuine historic and community significance for the Diocese of Paisley. The use of Ballachulish Scotch slate, combined with the careful salvage and reinstatement of 40% of the original tiles, ensures the restored roof sits sympathetically within the church’s historic character.
The rebuilt turnpike, finished in Code 8 lead, and the renewed rainwater goods and leadwork throughout the building provide long-term protection against the elements and significantly reduce the maintenance burden on the Diocese going forward.
Training the Next Generation of Heritage Roofers
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was the opportunity it provided for apprentice development. Kai, aged 16, worked on site throughout the project gaining hands-on experience in Scotch slate installation and leadwork detailing on a live heritage building. Heritage roofing skills are increasingly rare, and projects like St Fillans are vital for passing them on.
“Working on St Fillans Church has been a great experience for me. I’ve had the opportunity to learn how to install Scotch slates and get involved with leadwork, which isn’t something you get to do on every job. Being part of a project like this has helped me build my skills and confidence, and I’m learning something new every day.”
- Kai, Apprentice Roofer, Roofing Advisors
St Fillans RC Church is a strong example of Roofing Advisors’ capability in heritage and conservation roofing. A specialism that demands not only technical skill but an understanding of historic building materials, traditional craft methods, and the sensitivities of working on buildings of architectural and cultural significance.
Our Contracting division works across Scotland and the UK on church, listed building, and heritage roofing contracts, procured through both private appointment and public sector frameworks including Public Contracts Scotland.
Working on a church, listed building or heritage property? Contact our Contracting team to discuss your project.
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