What does it take to re-roof a large, complex residential development in an exposed coastal location, without displacing the people who live there?
At New Road Court Apartments in Porthcawl, the answer has resulted in a project shortlisted in the Roof Tiling category of the NFRC Roofing Awards 2026.
The two residential blocks sit around half a mile from Trecco Bay Beach, where exposure to wind-driven rain and uplift places significant demands on a pitched roof. The roof itself presented another challenge, with pitches ranging from 29° to 55°, alongside dormers, valleys, windows, balconies and numerous interfaces.
For chartered surveyors Ferrier Hart Thomas, acting for Wales & West Housing Association, the challenge was to develop a specification that could address these conditions while also supporting practical delivery on an occupied site.
Only 12 years in, the previous roof needed replacing
Broken tiles, moss growth and blocked drainage paths were already creating water ingress risks. Ferrier Hart Thomas identified that the original plain tile covering was not suited to the building’s height, exposure or roof geometry.
Its early replacement underlines the importance of specifying for the actual demands of a building, particularly on complex RMI projects where remedial works can bring significant disruption.
How specification support can help minimise remedial repair risk
Using Marley’s SpecRite tool, the team developed a project-specific roof system around those demands.
Double Roman concrete roof tiles in Mosborough Red were selected to support efficient drainage and resist wind uplift. Marley underlay, JB Red battens, fixings, dry-fix systems and ventilation components completed the specification, helping the team address detailing and BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 requirements as one coordinated system.
That support continued once work reached site.
Restricted access meant deliveries had to be carefully managed around ground-floor retail units, gardens, fences and narrow walkways.
Chris Marshall, Marley Regional Sales Director, South West, explains:
“On occupied projects like this, flexibility and communication are essential. By working closely with the Camilleri Roofing team, we were able to adapt deliveries to suit site conditions. This helped to support a smooth installation process while minimising disruption for residents and businesses.”
Marley also provided technical guidance and site inspections, helping the completed system qualify for a 15-year Roof System warranty.
Whether you’re planning a couple of extensions or working on a housing development due to home hundreds of people, our friendly experts are here to help you succeed. Get in touch with your local Marley area specification manager and obtain advice and guidance tailored to your particular needs.