Moot Hall - Wymondham - Norfolk

Product Used: Traditional

Colour: Antique/ Elizabethan/ Wealden Red Mix

Description:

Nothing could provide the historic market cross building, set within the heart of the medieval village of Wymondham, Norfolk, with such a genuinely traditional aesthetic as Keymer's handmade clay tiles.

Being a third of the building's entire structure, the roof is a vital element to its aesthetics. The centuries old design features a traditional conical shape, encircled by six separate sides, each tiled with Keymer's handmade Traditional Wealden Red clay tiles.

When laying the new roof for building of such heritage, such as Moot Hall - dating from the 13th century - it was imperative to stay true to its origins. The building is an important centre point to both locals and visitors, surrounded by the red roofs of 17th century residences and medieval alleys.

After a fire in 1616 Moot Hall was rebuilt and still stands exactly as it did then, and that includes its brand new handmade Keymer tiled roof.

Due to Keymer's own proven history in quality handmade tiles, dating over 400 years, it was the obvious choice for roofing contractor MG Houghton to supply a roof that remained 100% faithful to the Middle Ages.

The six triangular sides of the roof, although magnificent in design and looks, posed difficulties when laying the clay tiles, requiring a dedicated tiler. Every tile adjoining the six hips had to be cut to exactly fit the profile.

Whilst tiling proceeded, it was essential to avoid any harm coming to the roof's original timbers. Due to their heritage, it was essential not to move or damage them in any way, requiring a delicate approach.

Modern, machine-made tiles just wouldn't do justice to the entirety of Moot Hall's heritage or aesthetics - only traditional methods can really deliver a material of real character.

The finished result displays an example of real values, both in workmanship and materials, put to work upon an inspiring roof.

Keymer's handmade clay tiles provide, once again, a roof that is really worth looking at, reminding everyone to look up to what is really a key element of any building.