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Case Study – Knaphill Lower Primary School – Replacement Roof

Case Study: Roof Replacement at The Knaphill Lower Primary School 

Project Overview 

The Knaphill Lower Primary School required urgent works to replace its ageing asbestos roof and A-frame roof structure. The project involved a full roof replacement including the removal of the chrysotile tiles and roof structure with installation of new alongside internal improvements to ceiling and lighting systems. The goal was to enhance safety, insulation, and learning conditions while delivering a future-proof solution for the school. 

  • Location: Knaphill, Surrey 
  • Client: The Knaphill Lower Primary School 
  • Sector: Education 
  • Project Duration: July 2024 – September 2024 
  • Services Provided: Specification Writing, Tender, CIF Bid Application, Project Management, Design & Build Coordination, Health & Safety Compliance, Contract Administration 


Our Role / Services Provided 

We supported The Knaphill Lower Primary School from inception to completion by providing comprehensive consultancy and contract oversight services including: 

  • Condition survey and procurement of specialist asbestos and structural reports.  
  • Specification of new roof structure proposal 
  • CIF Bid preparation and submission alongside client. 
  • Pre-start meeting and contract award 
  • On-site quality monitoring and reporting 
  • Contract administration and Employers Agent duties. 
  • Snagging and Compliance sign-off  


Scope of Works Completed 

  • Safe removal and disposal of asbestos roof tiles in accordance with HSE guidelines 
  • Dismantling and removal of the original A-frame roof structure 
  • Construction of a new timber pitched roof with composite slate tiling 
  • Installation of new loft void insulation to meet current energy standards 
  • Installation of new plasterboard ceilings and suspended lay-in grid ceilings 
  • Upgrade to modern LED lighting systems to improve classroom illumination 
  • Full internal redecoration of affected areas 
Knaphill Lower Primary School - Case Study - School building with outdated roof requiring refurbishment and investment for improved safety and efficiency.
Existing pitched roof.
Roof construction site with timber decking and scaffolding in place, showing structural works in progress beneath protective sheeting.
Roof structure removed and ready to receive new trusses.
Interior classroom ceiling during construction, displaying new timber roof trusses and exposed services before insulation and ceiling installation.
Installation of new wooden roof trusses.
Interior of a classroom under refurbishment with exposed timber roof trusses and visible pink insulation between rafters.
Installation of new wooden roof trusses.
External view of pitched roof in progress with waterproof membrane and red battens installed, ready for tile application.
Installation of new waterproof membrane.
Newly installed pitched slate roof with a worker completing finishing touches near a chimney, surrounded by trees.
Installation of new composite slate tiles.
Refurbished classroom with new suspended ceiling and LED lighting installed to improve learning environment.
Installation of new lay-in grid suspended ceilings with new LED lighting.

Results & Outcomes 

  • Asbestos safely removed, creating a healthier environment for staff and pupils 
  • Structurally sound new roof installed, enhancing long-term asset reliability 
  • Improved thermal performance due to insulation and ceiling upgrades 
  • Enhanced lighting and internal finishes created brighter, more welcoming learning spaces 
  • Project delivered on time and completed in time for children returning from 2nd September 2024. No disruption to the running of the school. 
  • Very positive feedback from school leadership and staff.