Roofing and Window Restoration, The Bar Convent, York

CG Building & Restoration Ltd was appointed as principal contractor for a major conservation project at The Bar Convent in York — Britain’s oldest living convent and a Grade I listed landmark. The works formed part of a wider heritage upgrade programme, requiring specialist roofing, joinery and window restoration delivered with precision and sensitivity.

The roofing package included a full survey, careful removal of historic coverings, structural timber repairs, installation of breathable membranes and reinstatement of reclaimed and new materials matched to the original roofscape. Lead valleys, flashings and decorative details were restored in line with Lead Sheet Association standards. A trusted heritage roofing subcontractor, selected through our rigorous PQQ process, carried out the specialist slate and leadwork under our management and conservation oversight.

Our in‑house joiners completed targeted structural timber repairs using seasoned oak and traditional techniques, ensuring the roof structure was strengthened without altering its historic appearance. Bespoke scaffolding and a full temporary roof were installed to provide safe access across multiple elevations while minimising disruption to residents, hotel guests and visitors.

Alongside the roofing works, CG Building restored and redecorated over 280 historic timber windows. Each unit was individually assessed, repaired where possible and repainted using breathable, conservation‑grade coatings to protect the timber and preserve the building’s architectural character.

High‑quality, conservation‑grade materials were used throughout, including reclaimed Welsh slate, handmade clay tiles, lead sheet (Code 5 and 6), seasoned oak, Douglas fir, lime mortars and breathable membranes.

This project demonstrates CG Building & Restoration Ltd’s capability in delivering complex heritage restoration within a live, multi‑use environment — combining specialist subcontractor expertise with our own skilled joiners and project management team to protect and enhance one of York’s most significant historic buildings.