Permavent Supports Roofing Work at The Ark Homeless Shelter

Permavent is supporting essential roofing works at The Ark, a Shrewsbury-based homeless shelter, by donating its Apex breathable membrane.

The work was part of a collaborative project with roofing contractor Roofrite (Shropshire) Ltd and other generous contributors.

The Ark provides accommodation and specialist support services to people experiencing homelessness across Shropshire. It offers not only a safe place to stay but also pathways towards independence and long-term stability.

The roofing works are being delivered by Roofrite (Shropshire) Ltd, with Permavent supplying Apex membrane to enhance the performance and longevity of the roof structure. The membrane has been selected for its ability to provide reliable weather protection while maintaining breathability, an important consideration for buildings in constant, year-round use.

Support is also being provided by other contributors who have kindly donated materials free of charge, including Boden Roofing Supplies (50x25mm battens), SIG (new 500x250mm Spanish slates) and Manthorpe (ventilation products).

Roofing Work

A general overview of the specification of works includes the careful stripping and re-use of the existing natural slate roof, with additional matching slate being introduced in line with local conservation approval. All leadwork is being renewed, alongside insulation upgrades to enhance the building’s thermal performance.

The project also includes remedial works to three chimneys, with re-pointing and re-flaunching being carried out using lime mortar to meet conservation requirements. Rainwater goods and associated timber elements are being assessed as works progress and repaired or replaced where required, helping to ensure the building remains weather-tight, durable and fit for year-round use.

Supporting Community

James Ford, National Specification Manager – Roofing, at Permavent, commented: “Projects like this highlight how the construction supply chain can play a practical role in supporting community infrastructure. Our involvement is about ensuring the right materials are available to help protect a building that does vital work every day.”

The Ark’s facilities play a critical role in supporting vulnerable individuals, and maintaining a safe, dry and durable building is essential to the charity’s ongoing operations.

Dependable Materials

Ross Jones, Director at Roofrite (Shropshire) Ltd, added: “Having dependable materials on site helps us complete the works efficiently and to the standard required for a building of this importance. It’s rewarding to be involved in projects where the outcome genuinely matters beyond the construction itself.”

For Permavent, the project reflects an ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that deliver long-term social value, working alongside contractors and charities to help protect buildings that support people most in need.

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