Looking After Centuries-Old Timber
High above the staircase ceiling, two magnificent oak tie beams stretch from east to west. These beams have supported the roof for hundreds of years. Over time, large cracks appeared in the timber – signs of historic movement that had likely been there for many decades.
These cracks told us that this part of the building had experienced stress in the past. Left unaddressed, it could have become vulnerable during heavy snow, strong winds, or extreme weather and risk structural failures in the buildings.
We needed to protect these historic timbers.
Strengthening Without Changing
To achieve this, engineers installed steel supports alongside the original oak beams. Known as parallel flange channels (PFCs), these steels now sit slightly above and on either side of each tie beam, quietly sharing the load.
They are securely bolted to the oak using specially designed steel plate cleats, ensuring strength and stability while leaving the original structure in place.
A Carefully Planned Operation
Bringing large steel beams into a historic house is no small task.
Each section – weighing around 120 kilograms – had to be winched up to parapet level on the south side of the building before being carefully brought into the attic through a dormer window. In total, 12 sections were installed, each one positioned with precision.
To ensure a perfect fit, the ends of the steels were specially fabricated with ‘cranks’. This allowed them to slide neatly beneath the slope of the roof tiles and rest securely on the wall plates. The east and west walls now share the weight of both the steelwork and the historic timbers they support.
It was a complex and delicate operation, carried out with great care to protect the fabric of the building at every stage.
Respecting the Past
One of the most important principles of this project was respect for the original structure.
No historic oak beams were moved, and no earlier repairs were removed. Instead, the new steels simply hold everything in its current position, gently reinforcing what is already there.
All work was completed under listed building consent, in line with heritage regulations. To ensure the steelwork lasts for many years to come, it has been treated with a red oxide primer to prevent corrosion.
Protecting West Horsley Place for the Future
Without this intervention, the roof in this area could have been at risk during periods of severe weather. Now the Main Staircase roof is stronger, safer, and better prepared for the years ahead.
Projects like this may take place out of sight, but they play a vital role in preserving West Horsley Place.
Every repair is part of a long story of care, commitment and stewardship – one that we are proud to continue.
