Clearing Foam From Devonport Roofs
Devonport was heavily damaged in the Second World War and largely rebuilt afterwards, then regenerated again in more recent decades. The result is a real mix: post-war houses and flats, newer homes, and a scattering of older buildings in the Devonport conservation area.
We take spray foam out of Devonport homes. Because the housing varies so much street to street, we’ll ask a few questions about your property and the roof before quoting.
What Devonport Roofs Are Like
Post-war houses typically have simple pitched or hipped roofs with tiles rather than slate, and a reasonable loft reached through a landing hatch. These are often among the more straightforward jobs.
Newer housing usually has trussed roofs, with closely spaced timbers that make working around foam slower. Foam sprayed between trusses can take time to clear neatly.
Surviving older buildings, some of them listed, need more care, particularly around original timbers.
On the Ground in Devonport
Because Devonport has been rebuilt in stages, two houses on the same street can have completely different roofs. A photo from the hatch is especially useful here — it tells us straight away whether we’re dealing with a cut timber roof or trusses.
What Makes a Devonport Job Harder or Easier
- Trussed roofs with closely spaced timbers in newer homes
- Tiled post-war roofs with reasonable lofts
- Listed and older buildings in the conservation area
- Flats where the roof is managed by a landlord or freeholder
- Waterfront exposure on some streets
Indicative Costs in Devonport
Indicative costs
Many Devonport houses fall within the typical 3-bed range. Trussed roofs, closed cell foam or listed buildings can push the price higher.
- A slope, a section or a little loft£1.5k – £3k
- Both slopes of an average family house£3k – £5k
- Large roofs, rigid foam or tricky access£5k – £8k+
- Measured rate£40 – £80+ a square metre
Indicative Plymouth figures only — the fixed price comes after we’ve looked at the foam in person or through good photographs. What sets the price.
Sales, Surveys and Lenders
If you’re remortgaging or selling a Devonport home and the lender or surveyor has flagged spray foam, ask for their exact requirement in writing. Some want full removal; others are satisfied with a report and photos.
Even with the foam gone, the lender or buyer has the final word — our lenders page explains why.
Useful Links for Devonport
- RICS consumer guide to spray foam insulation — the surveying profession’s homeowner briefing on sprayed insulation.
- Plymouth City Council: conservation areas — Devonport is protected, so look here before anything changes on the outside of the roof.
- Plymouth City Council: building control — Plymouth’s building control team, if new roofing or insulation might need signing off.
- Historic England: search the National Heritage List — see if the property is listed before planning repairs.
Links open in a new window. These bodies have no connection to our business.