Camellia House Roof Truss Restoration

Project Overview

Barker & Patterson was appointed to restore the historic cast iron roof trusses of the Grade II* listed Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse.

Following the careful removal of the trusses in 2022, each section was transported to our Hull workshop for restoration. The trusses were shot blasted to remove decades of paint and corrosion before undergoing detailed inspection, repair and preparation works.

While the main cast iron structures remained in remarkably good condition, significant deterioration had occurred to the base plates. These sections were sympathetically repaired and, where necessary, replaced to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the roof.

A key element of the project involved the use of traditional hot riveting techniques, closely replicating the methods originally used when the trusses were manufactured in 1812. This skilled and time-intensive process helped preserve the historic character of the structure while preparing it for reinstallation.

The completed restoration showcases Barker & Patterson's expertise in heritage restoration, traditional metalworking techniques and the repair of historically significant structures.