Keymer now producing Ditchling tiles

Keymer is a well known and respected company that has been producing handmade clay roofing tiles since 1588 in west Sussex, England. Over the years many building techniques have been changed and modernised, and so indeed has the process of making tiles on the most part. The production of Keymer tiles has evolved over the generations, but many traditional processes have been retained. The tiles are often used in restorations of older buildings, such a churches, schools and oast houses. Due to the added character of using such traditional tiles, many bespoke projects make good use of Keymer products. They are also used by builders of retail, leisure and other, similar constructions. As well as a variety of plain and peg tiles, including the new ‘Ditchling’, Keymer can provide other clay roofing materials such as ornamental tiles and finials. The tiles are still made out of native Wealden clay. Although the original production site at Ditchling Common was left in the late nineteenth century due to the clay supply running low, the clay pit and factory are still at nearby Nye Road. As well as supplying roofing tiles, Keymer originally produced bricks. In fact initially the company was known as Keymer brick and tile company. In the 1970’s the decision was made to stop brick production and concentrate on tiles due to some instability in the market for bricks. Due to increasing interests in using quite locally sourced materials and preserving traditional skills, Keymer has been able to increase their production of roofing tiles and other related materials.

The Ditchling is a roofing tile that has been developed by Keymer to fit in with their existing range. It is hand crafted with a sand faced finish, and is available in the colours Medium, Old English and Dark.

As a company that has been in the roofing business for over 400 years, Keymer is used to adopting new approaches and has been utilising more environmentally friendly production methods in recent years, though it retains traditional practices.

For further information and a comprehensive list of companies who offer roofing services, please visit our website at http://www.buildingregister.com.