Roof tiles for listed buildings

The right roof tiles for listed buildings are usually handmade clay tiles in the size, shape and colour of the originals. Tudor makes like-for-like peg and plain tiles, usually within 4–6 weeks, and they are the tiles recommended by architects, planners and conservation officers.

Request samples Call 01797 320202

Church with a steep roof of handmade clay tiles

Why size matters on listed roofs

A Royal Charter of 1477 set English tiles at 10½ × 6¼ in, but makers in different towns kept their own sizes, and peg tiles didn’t settle at 10 × 6 in until the late 19th century. So the tiles on a historic roof can differ a lot from today’s standard, and even a slight change in size shows.

We respect those regional differences. Send or bring us a tile and we will make a like-for-like size, with square or round peg holes for wooden or metal pegs, or with nibs. About bespoke tiles.

Matching colour and texture

Our tiles have a gentle double camber and subtle tones and textures that recreate the look of time-weathered peg tiles. Jubilee, blended with other colours, gives an instantly aged roof, and the English Oak range was developed for heritage properties. Compare colours.

Handmade peg tiles hung on oak battens in an old roof

Samples, site visits and advice

We will send samples to you or your conservation officer, and our Specifications and Business Development Manager, Jo Mills, can visit site to help match existing tiles and check what planning needs. You are also welcome at the factory in Lydd by appointment.

Historic England explains what listing means for owners of listed buildings.

Bats in historic roofs

Old roofs often have bats, and the law protects them and their roosts. If yours has had bats, you will need expert advice before work starts, and access for bats afterwards. Our bat access tiles work in any plain tile roof.

Listed buildings we have roofed

The main roof of the Church of St Mary in Castro, Dover Castle
The restoration of the Royal Horticultural Society’s building at Wisley
The Inigo Jones Theatre at the new Globe, Southwark
National Trust and English Heritage properties
Listed homes, churches, oast houses and stately homes across England

See a list of listed projects with dates and grades.

Questions about roof tiles for listed buildings

Do I need permission to re-roof a listed building?

Often, yes. Work that affects the character of a listed building needs listed building consent from the local planning authority, so speak to your conservation officer before you order.

Can you match the tiles on my roof?

We can make a like-for-like size from a sample tile, and help you choose a colour or blend that sits with the old tiles.

How long do bespoke tiles for a listed building take?

Usually 4–6 weeks from order.

Can I see your tiles on another listed building?

Yes. Ask us for addresses near you, or see the tiles at the factory by appointment.