Originally named RAF Rhosneigr, RAF Valley opened in 1941 and operated as a fighter station during World War Two, defending the Irish Sea and Merseyside from enemy air and sea activity. After the war, the station became a flying training station for the RAF and Royal Navy, as it remains today.

Having worked on many Ministry of Defence sites across the UK, Complete Roofing Systems was engaged to deliver a £2m project, stripping and re-roofing 85 homes on the barracks as the existing roof coverings had reached the end of their life.

We stripped the existing roof coverings and installed Mini Stonewold tiles with dry-fixed ridge, hip and verge. This tile was specified due to its strength and robustness, enabling it to withstand the prevailing winds that come in straight off the Irish Sea.

Our team also replaced the existing hanging wall tiles with HardiePlank® cladding and replaced the fascia, soffits and gutters. Some homes had their flat roof porches and canopies replaced with glass-reinforced plastic and many required rendering and decoration to finish the exterior.

As always, our work was delivered in accordance with British Standard 5534:2014 (plus amendments), the code of practice for pitched roofs.

Due to its scale and the number of different trades working together, collaboration was key to the success of the project. Our site team meticulously managed the programme to ensure every element worked together and changes caused by the weather were well communicated.

Communication was also critical in minimising disruption to the residents and enabling convenient and safe access to their homes throughout the works. Our site manager developed a close working relationship with the residents, ensuring he kept them regularly updated and gave them the opportunity to raise any issues or concerns.

The project was particularly challenging due to adverse weather conditions. As much of the programme took place during winter, our team had to contend with high winds, heavy rain and snow. While the only option was to pause works when the wind speed surpassed 17mph, we were able to work very flexibly by ensuring our operatives and subcontractors were based locally, meaning they could travel to site quickly as and when the weather allowed them to work.

Despite these challenges, the project was delivered successfully. All 85 homes now have durable, weathertight roofs with insurance-backed guarantees from both BMI Redland and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC).

We’re always proud to support the armed forces with our work and, in this case, provide RAF Valley’s servicemen and women, and their families, with long-lasting, attractive homes that will withstand the elements for many years to come.

Find out more about our tiling services.