Roofclad Systems delivers £1m-plus roofing and solar upgrade for Unitech

Roofclad Systems has completed a roofing and solar energy project worth more than £1 million at Unitech Group’s Burntwood production facility, improving energy efficiency and weather protection while keeping manufacturing running.

The eight-month programme transformed the ageing roof at the Staffordshire site, replacing 5,555m² of asbestos cement sheeting and installing 592 solar panels. The installation is estimated to generate 240,967 kWh of renewable electricity annually, supporting Unitech’s long-term energy strategy.

Based on the client’s financial assessment, the solar installation has a projected payback period of approximately three years.

The existing roof, dating from the 1980s, had reached the end of its serviceable life, with leaks and limited insulation. Roofclad Systems replaced it with insulated Tata Steel Trisomet composite panels, achieving a U-value of 0.16 W/m²K and backed by a 25-year Platinum Plus System Guarantee.

Refurbished gutters and bespoke weatherproofing details strengthened protection against the elements, while new triple-skin rooflights brought natural daylight into the 90,000 sq ft facility.

Careful planning, phased working and close coordination with Unitech’s operational team enabled the refurbishment to proceed with minimal disruption to production.

Stuart Harrison, General Manager at Unitech Group, said: “Roofclad Systems worked safely and coordinated effectively with our on-site operations. The team responded well to challenges, maintained good Health & Safety standards and delivered quality workmanship. The installation team were helpful and easy to work with, making it a positive experience overall.”

Combining the roof replacement and solar installation in one coordinated programme also helped Unitech avoid the future cost and disruption of removing and reinstalling panels when the old roof needed replacing.

The completed project gives the business a modern, insulated and weatherproof roof alongside renewable electricity generation, delivering a lasting upgrade to its Staffordshire manufacturing premises.