The upstand, or kerb, is the raised frame the lantern sits on. Send photos from Thurso (KW14) and we'll tell you which it is — with the price agreed in writing before any work.
Is it time for upstand and kerb repairs?
- Water appearing below the lantern rather than from the glass
- Ponding water against the kerb after rain
- Cold, damp or mouldy lining around the opening
Common causes we find
Kerb too low
If the kerb doesn't rise enough above the finished roof, water sits against the joint during heavy rain.
Rotten timber
Untreated or wet timber kerbs rot from inside, so the lantern loses support and the seals open.
About Thurso and the KW14 area
Wind-driven rain is the real test of a roof lantern, and the wetter west sees plenty of it. Leaks that appear only in a storm from one direction usually point to the cappings or eaves on that face — a useful clue when you send us photos.
Coastal wind drives rain hard against lanterns, so cappings and ridge seals on the seaward face take the most punishment.
Neighbouring places we cover include Wick (19 miles), Kirkwall (34 miles).
How much should it cost?
Guide price for upstand and kerb repairs: £395–£1,295 ex VAT (£474–£1,554 inc VAT), per lantern. Towers or scaffold, where needed, are priced into the quote. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing before any work starts.
Do you need permission in Scotland?
In Scotland, like-for-like repairs to a roof lantern don't usually involve building control. A full replacement or a bigger opening is controlled under the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, so we set out the route in writing first. Listed buildings in Scotland need listed building consent from the planning authority for alterations, with Historic Environment Scotland guidance; check before changing a lantern on a listed property.
How does it work?
- Send photosWhatsApp or upload a few photos and tell us when it leaks.
- Guide priceWe reply with a guide price and whether a visit is needed.
- Fixed price in writingYou approve the price and the date before anything starts.
- Repair and testWe fix what's failed, water-test where it matters, and send photos.
Upstand and kerb repairs in Thurso: questions
How do I get a price for upstand and kerb repairs in Thurso?
Send a few photos of the lantern and the problem, with your Thurso postcode. We'll reply with a guide price and tell you whether a visit is needed before we can fix the price.
Which places near Thurso do you cover?
As well as Thurso, we cover nearby Wick, Kirkwall and the rest of Highlands and Islands.
How much does an upstand repair cost?
Typically £395–£1,295 ex VAT depending on size, timber condition and the roof covering. The fixed price is confirmed in writing before work starts.
Will my ceiling need repairing?
If water has soaked the lining it may need making good after the leak is fixed; we can advise, but internal decorating isn't included unless quoted.
Other lantern repairs in Thurso
- Roof lantern resealing in Thurso
- Glazing bar and capping repairs in Thurso
- Ridge and hip repairs in Thurso
- Flat roof junction and flashing repairs in Thurso
- Opening vent and actuator repairs in Thurso
- Cleaning and maintenance in Thurso
Upstand and kerb repairs near Thurso
More about upstand and kerb repairs · All roof lantern repairs in Thurso