Kent Peg Tile Roofing in Tunbridge Wells
Kent peg tiles are a distinctive traditional roof covering found on many period properties across Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area, including Southborough, Pembury, Bidborough, Rusthall. Pro Guard Roofing Specialists Ltd repairs and re-roofs Kent peg tile roofs using appropriate traditional tiles, battens and leadwork — preserving the character of older Kent properties while making them weathertight.
About this service
Kent peg tiles are small, handmade clay tiles hung on timber battens using wooden or metal pegs rather than nails. They give the soft, undulating roofline characteristic of period Kent cottages, oast houses and farm buildings. Over time the pegs or battens fail, tiles slip and crack, and the membrane beneath degrades. We inspect the peg tile covering — with a drone where access is difficult — and recommend repair or renewal using tiles that match the original.
A Kent peg tile re-roof strips the old tiles, renews the membrane and battens, repairs any decayed timbers, and reinstates the peg tiles (reusing sound tiles and sourcing matching reclaimed tiles where needed) with new leadwork and traditional ridge detailing.
Typical problems we solve
- Slipped, cracked or missing Kent peg tiles
- Decayed pegs or battens causing tiles to slip
- Leaks through a peg tile roof
- Period cottages, oast houses and farm buildings
- Failed lead valleys or flashings on peg tile roofs
- A peg tile roof nearing the end of its life
Benefits
- Traditional Kent peg tiles sourced and matched
- Sound original tiles reused where possible
- Membrane and battens renewed on a re-roof
- Leadwork dressed and welded to a traditional standard
- Character of the period property preserved
- Workmanship guarantee on qualifying works
Our process
We inspect the peg tile covering, battens, membrane and timbers — using drone imagery where access is difficult — and advise whether tiles can be replaced or a full re-roof is better value. We source matching Kent peg tiles, including reclaimed tiles where needed, and provide a written quotation.
How we carry out the work
For repairs, we replace slipped or cracked peg tiles using matching tiles and correct fixing. For a re-roof, we strip the roof, renew the membrane and battens, repair timbers, and reinstate the peg tiles with new leadwork and traditional ridge detailing to a weathertight, lasting standard.
Drainage considerations
Lead valleys on peg tile roofs are a common leak source. We form and renew lead valleys with correct falls and traditional detailing so water is carried safely to the gutter.
Edging and finishing
Ridges and verges are detailed in keeping with the period building — traditionally mortar-bedded — so the peg tile roof retains its characteristic soft roofline.
Maintenance information
Kent peg tile roofs benefit from periodic inspection to catch slipped tiles and batten decay early. We advise on a simple maintenance routine and can carry out periodic checks.
Frequently asked questions
Can you match my existing Kent peg tiles?
Yes. We source matching Kent peg tiles, including reclaimed tiles where a close match to an existing covering is needed, so repairs and re-roofs blend with the original roof.
Do Kent peg tile roofs need special treatment?
They use traditional materials and fixing methods, so the work must be sympathetic to the building. We use appropriate tiles, battens and leadwork, and work to any listed building or conservation area requirements.
Contact Pro Guard Roofing Specialists Ltd
Call us on 01622 611 499 or email info@proguardroofingspecialists.co.uk. Calls are answered by our team 24/7 — no AI receptionists.
Pro Guard Roofing Specialists Ltd. Registered in England and Wales. Company No. 16026198. Registered Office: Maidstone House, King Street, Maidstone, England, ME15 6JQ.