There are some building projects where the location changes the way almost every detail needs to be considered.

This recent Calico project is a perfect example.

Sitting immediately beside the water, the existing roof structure needed to be completely rebuilt before receiving a new GRP fibreglass roof system.

The finished roof will do far more than simply keep the structure below dry. It is being designed as a usable waterside space, with designated anti-slip walking areas, room for a table and chairs and, eventually, a beautiful log cabin above.

The idea is to create somewhere that can be enjoyed throughout the year — outside when the weather is good and inside the future cabin when a little more shelter is needed.

Starting With What Was Already There

As with many renovation projects, the first challenge was understanding and working with the existing structure.

Once the old roof was removed, it became clear that the supporting walls were not all at the same height.

That is not something that can simply be ignored when trying to create a new roof with a controlled fall and a properly supported deck.

We have therefore had to correct those differences using a combination of timber work and brickwork, gradually bringing the structure to the levels required for the new roof.

Customer-Supplied Timber — Cheaper Doesn't Always Mean Quicker

The structural beams for the project were supplied directly by the customer.

They had managed to source them for a very competitive price, which initially looked like a useful saving.

However, building materials are not only about the purchase price.

The timbers were not as straight and consistent as we would normally want for this type of work, so we have had to spend additional time preparing them before installation.

To establish a proper straight reference, we have been snapping a chalk line along one side and cutting the timber true, before using that straight edge as the reference for the opposite side.

It takes longer than working with consistently straight material from the outset, but the alternative would be allowing those variations to work their way into the roof structure.

Once large sheets are laid across multiple joists, even small inaccuracies can become much more obvious.

That is why we would rather spend the extra time getting the structure right now.

Building the Fall Into the Roof

A flat roof is not actually supposed to be perfectly flat.

Water needs somewhere to go.

Now that the main roof timbers are installed, we are adding firring pieces to create approximately a 1:40 fall across the roof.

These tapered timbers gradually change the level of the deck and encourage rainwater to move in the direction we want rather than sitting on the finished roof surface.

In this case, the drainage is being designed to direct surface water toward the slipway side of the building, where new guttering will collect and manage the runoff.

It may look like a relatively small detail, but controlling water is one of the most important parts of a flat-roof installation.

Why We're Using 18mm BS EN 636 Class 3 Plywood

The next major stage is the roof deck.

Rather than simply using the easiest sheet material we could obtain locally, we have sourced 18mm plywood to BS EN 636 Class 3 specification.

This is a higher specification than the material readily available to us from the usual local suppliers and is better suited to the environment and roof system being created here.

The lower surface of the plywood has already been treated before installation, giving us the opportunity to protect an area that will become far more difficult to access once the roof is assembled.

The sheets will then be securely fixed across the prepared roof structure to create the continuous deck required for the fibreglass system.

Why Fibreglass Makes Sense Beside the Sea

Once the plywood deck is complete, the roof will receive its GRP fibreglass covering.

For this particular project, fibreglass makes a great deal of sense.

A properly installed GRP roof creates a seamless waterproof surface without the numerous joints found in some other roofing systems.

That is especially useful in a location exposed to sea air, wind and rain.

GRP also allows us to form details around edges, upstands and other areas of the roof as part of the overall waterproof system.

But this roof has another requirement.

It needs to be usable.

Creating a Roof You Can Actually Enjoy

This isn't going to be a roof that is installed and then forgotten about.

The intention is for the space above to become part of the property.

Once the fibreglass system is installed, we plan to incorporate additional grip into designated walking areas.

That will help create more secure routes around the roof and the future cabin, rather than leaving the whole surface with the same smooth finish.

We will also form toe rails around the appropriate edges, helping define and protect the usable roof area while directing water toward the planned drainage points.

Ultimately, there should be enough space for a table and chairs outside the cabin, creating a brilliant spot from which to enjoy the view across the water.

A Log Cabin With a View

The final stage will completely change how the roof is used.

A log cabin is planned for the upper level, providing a sheltered waterside retreat.

On a summer's day, the doors can be opened and the outside roof area enjoyed with a table and chairs.

When the temperature drops or the weather turns, there will still be somewhere to sit inside, protected from the elements while enjoying exactly the same view.

It should become a great place to sit with a cup of tea or coffee and look out over the water, even on the colder days.

Considering the position of this property, that view is very much part of the project.

The Details Beneath the Finished Roof Matter

One of the things we regularly talk about at Calico is the importance of the work you eventually won't be able to see.

When this project is complete, most people will notice the fibreglass finish, the cabin and the view.

They probably won't notice:

• The different original wall heights
• The brickwork alterations
• The timber used to correct levels
• The time spent straightening supplied beams
• The firrings creating the 1:40 fall
• The treated underside of the plywood
• The planning involved in directing rainwater toward the new guttering

But those details are what allow the visible parts of the project to work properly.

More Than Simply Replacing a Roof

This project is a good example of the way renovation work can evolve.

What starts as a roof rebuild can involve structural carpentry, masonry, drainage, specialist sheet materials, fibreglass roofing and eventually the creation of an entirely new recreational space.

It is also why we prefer to look at a project as a whole rather than treating every part as an isolated trade.

The joists affect the deck.

The deck affects the fibreglass.

The fall affects the drainage.

The finished roof affects how the future cabin and outside seating area can be used.

Everything is connected.

Following the Project Through to Completion

We will continue to share more of this project as the 18mm BS EN 636 Class 3 plywood deck, GRP fibreglass roof, anti-slip areas, guttering and final cabin begin to take shape.

With a waterside location like this one, we think the finished result will be worth following.

A staircase is one of the largest architectural features inside many homes, but it is often treated as something purely functional.

In reality, the staircase and balustrade can have a huge influence on how a hallway, landing or open-plan space feels. The right materials and details can completely change the appearance of an older staircase without necessarily replacing the entire structure.

At Calico, we work with staircases as part of wider building renovations, loft conversions, building conversions and individual carpentry projects, from straightforward repairs and upgrades through to complete staircase and balustrade refurbishment.

Do You Need a Completely New Staircase?

Not always.

Many existing staircases are structurally sound but look dated because of painted pine, tired handrails, damaged spindles or an older balustrade design.

In these situations, it may be possible to retain the main staircase and update the parts you actually see.

Timber Staircases

Timber remains one of the most versatile materials available for domestic staircases and balustrades.

Different timber species, profiles, colours and finishes can create very different results, from a traditional staircase intended to complement an older property to a clean contemporary design.

Painted Softwood

Painted pine and other softwoods are common in many homes and can provide a practical and cost-effective staircase finish.

Painted timber can work particularly well where the staircase needs to coordinate with painted skirting boards, architraves and internal doors.

A traditional white-painted staircase can also be combined with a contrasting natural timber handrail to introduce warmth without replacing every component.

Oak Staircases & Balustrades

Oak is a popular choice when homeowners want a warmer, more substantial appearance.

An existing painted staircase can sometimes be transformed by replacing visible components with oak rather than removing and replacing the entire staircase.

Oak can be used for:

• Handrails
• Newel posts
• Newel caps
• Spindles
• Base rails
• Stair strings
• Treads and risers

The finished appearance can range from very traditional to highly contemporary depending on the profiles chosen and the materials surrounding the oak.

Different Balustrade Materials

The balustrade is often the part of the staircase that has the greatest visual impact. Changing the material or style can dramatically alter how open, traditional or contemporary the staircase feels.

Glass Balustrades

Glass balustrades are often chosen when the aim is to create a lighter, more open appearance.

They can be particularly effective in hallways and landings where a traditional arrangement of timber spindles makes the area feel visually enclosed.

Glass may be combined with:

• Oak handrails
• Painted timber
• Suitable stainless-steel fittings
• Timber newel posts
• Minimal contemporary framing

One of the biggest visual advantages of glass is that it allows light to pass through the staircase rather than creating a stronger visual divide between different areas.

It can therefore work particularly well within modern renovations and open-plan spaces.

Oak & Glass Staircases

Oak and glass is one of the most popular combinations for contemporary staircase refurbishment.

The timber brings warmth and character while the glass helps keep the overall design visually light.

This approach can work particularly well when an older painted staircase is being modernised without removing the entire structure.

A design might combine oak newel posts and handrails with larger glass balustrade panels positioned between them.

Painted Timber & Glass

Choosing glass does not mean the entire staircase needs to have a natural timber finish.

Painted newel posts and stair strings can be combined with a timber handrail and glass panels.

This can create a clean contemporary appearance while allowing the staircase to remain coordinated with painted doors, skirting and architraves elsewhere in the property.

Traditional Staircase Styles

Traditional staircase design often makes more use of decorative timber profiles and detailing.

Typical features can include:

• Turned timber spindles
• Decorative newel posts
• Shaped timber handrails
• Moulded details
• Painted finishes
• Stained or natural timber

These styles can work particularly well in Victorian, Edwardian and other older properties where the staircase should complement the architectural character of the house.

Contemporary Staircase Styles

Modern staircase design generally uses cleaner lines and fewer decorative details.

Common elements include:

• Square timber spindles
• Glass balustrades
• Simple oak handrails
• Clean newel post profiles
• Minimal trims
• Contrasting natural timber and painted finishes
• Metal balusters

In these interiors, the staircase can become a much more deliberate part of the overall design rather than simply a route between floors.

Staircase Handrails

The handrail has a significant influence on both the appearance and feel of a staircase.

Options can include:

• Painted timber
• Natural oak
• Stained timber
• Traditional shaped profiles
• Simple contemporary profiles

A new handrail can sometimes be introduced as part of a wider balustrade refurbishment without altering the main staircase structure.

Newel Posts

Newel posts are the main structural posts within many balustrade designs and can become one of the strongest visual elements of the staircase.

Depending on the existing staircase, they may be:

• Retained and refinished
• Modified
• Clad
• Partly replaced
• Completely replaced

Changing a bulky or heavily decorative newel post for a simpler design can help modernise the staircase considerably.

Equally, introducing a more traditional newel post can help restore character where an older staircase has previously been simplified.

Open & Closed Staircases

Most domestic staircases have closed risers, where the vertical section between each tread is filled.

Open-riser staircases leave this area visually open and can allow more light through the staircase.

They can produce a very contemporary appearance, although structural design, safety and applicable Building Regulations need to be considered where this type of staircase is proposed.

Staircase Flooring & Finishes

The staircase also needs to work with the flooring on the floors above and below it.

Depending on the design, stairs may be:

• Carpeted
• Timber finished
• Painted
• Combined with a stair runner
• Finished with contrasting treads and risers

The junction between the staircase and surrounding floor is important too.

Changes in floor height caused by timber, LVT, tiles or carpet can affect thresholds, stair nosings and the final finish around the landing.

Our Flooring Services page explains more about the different flooring options available and the preparation required beneath them.

Staircases During Loft Conversions

A loft conversion will often require a completely new staircase.

Finding the right location can be one of the most important parts of the conversion because the staircase needs to work both upstairs and on the floor below.

Headroom, floor openings, landings, doors, circulation and fire safety all need to be considered.

The new staircase should also feel like part of the original house rather than something that has simply been added afterwards.

Where appropriate, the style of the new balustrade, handrail and newel posts can be coordinated with the existing staircase.

Read more about creating an additional floor on our Loft Conversions page.

Staircases During Basement Conversions

Basement access can present a different set of challenges.

Some properties already have steep or narrow stairs that were originally intended only for occasional access or storage.

Where the basement is being transformed into a regularly used room, the existing staircase may need to be altered or replaced.

In some properties, a new floor opening and completely new staircase may need to be considered as part of the conversion.

Don't Forget the Space Under the Stairs

The staircase itself can also create valuable opportunities for storage.

The area beneath the stairs is often awkwardly shaped, but bespoke carpentry can turn it into something considerably more useful.

Options might include:

• Fitted cupboards
• Pull-out drawers
• Shelving
• Shoe storage
• Coat storage
• General household storage

Because the storage is designed around the staircase itself, it can make much better use of the available space than standard freestanding furniture.

Find out more through our Storage Systems and Carpentry Services pages.

Should You Repair, Refurbish or Replace?

There is no single answer.

If the main staircase is structurally sound and works well within the property, refurbishment can often provide a significant visual improvement without replacing everything.

If the staircase is badly positioned, unsuitable for a new layout or being introduced as part of a loft, basement or major renovation, replacement may make more sense.

The important part is understanding the available options before deciding which approach is right for the property.

Choosing the Right Staircase Style for Your Home

The best staircase is not necessarily the most fashionable one.

It should work with the age and style of the property, the surrounding flooring and joinery, the amount of natural light and the way the rest of the home is being renovated.

A glass balustrade can be ideal in one property and completely wrong in another.

Likewise, traditional timber spindles may suit an older house better than replacing everything with a very contemporary design.

At Calico, we prefer to look at the staircase as part of the wider home rather than treating it as an isolated feature.