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Most of us associate a barn with animals and farming, but some of the most luxurious conversions in recent years feature these mammoth rural properties. British barns have a rich history and were traditionally used for several purposes. Primarily, they served as grain storage, often featuring large doors to allow fully laden wagons to pass through. They were also used to house livestock and store farm equipment and hay. These barns were integral to the agricultural landscape and played a crucial role in the history of farming practices of the time. Known for transforming spaces into dynamic and tasteful environments, barn conversions have seen a resurgence in popularity since their initial boom in the 1990s. Our client requested a sustainable conversion for this large, horseshoe-shaped Suffolk barn. In achieving this, the contractor installed solar panels into the roofing, which required an air and vapour permeable underlay with exceptional breathability.
View products used in projectSuffolk
Install an air and vapour permeable underlay with exceptional breathability for a roof which is specified to hold solar panels. Permavent APEX, which is both vapour and air permeable, is the ideal underlay for use around solar arrays.
Permavent APEX was specified for its superior quality 3 layer air open and vapour permeability, providing unique condensation control which eliminates the need for low or high level ventilation. Permavent APEX significantly reduces potential condensation risk.
Permavent APEX was essential in enabling the installation of multiple photovoltaic panels in an array across the roof, harnessing sunlight to generate free, clean electricity. This approach powers the homes sustainably, reducing its environmental impact.
Sandtoft Neo clay pan tiles were used to set off the contrasting flat roof sections, finished in a GRP coating with a dark Anthracite colour.
Branch Manager at SIG Roofing, Adrian Dann comments, “I believe the quality and value for money of Permavent underlays, along with the technical support provided by Permavent, makes Permavent APEX the first product of choice.”
Permavent APEX was installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions and building standards regulations, in compliance with BS5534 & BS5250.
Installer: District Roofing
Merchants: SIG Roofing, Gt Yarmouth
Thank you to Dale Gowing for helping to put this case study together.
