Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Oast Cowl Restoration Services
Established in 1937, Dude & Arnette is a fourth-generation family business specialising in oast cowl repair, construction, and restoration. Our team of highly trained craftsmen employs traditional methods and materials to preserve the heritage of these iconic structures while incorporating modern techniques to ensure durability and cost-effectiveness. With decades of experience serving clients across the UK, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship without subcontracting any work. Featured in Channel 4, BBC One, and ITV, our commitment to quality is evidenced by our 70-year legacy of satisfied customers and guaranteed workmanship. 
Services
Oast cowl construction
Cowl painting
Cowl repair
Cowl cleaning
Roof building
Kent peg tiles
Kiln roof maintenance
Carpentry
Details
- Year established: 1937
Highlights and features
- Fourth-generation family business since 1937 with unmatched heritage expertise
- Specialist craftsmen using traditional methods without subcontractors
- Featured in Channel 4, BBC One, and ITV for industry-leading work
- 70+ years of proven experience with guaranteed workmanship
- Combines traditional materials with modern durability standards
What people say
Brilliant from start to finish
Professional and efficient
Genuine craftsmanship
No hidden extras
Highly knowledgeable team
Services
Oast cowl construction
We create bespoke wooden oast cowls using traditional joinery techniques perfected over four generations. Each structure is handcrafted to blend seamlessly with its architectural environment while ensuring longevity. Our cowls feature authentic detailing that preserves Kent's hop-growing heritage.
Oast cowl repair
Specialist repair service for weather-damaged or deteriorated cowls using heritage-appropriate materials. We address structural issues, rot, and weatherproofing while maintaining original design integrity. Emergency repairs available for storm damage.
Oast cowl painting
Professional cowl painting using durable exterior-grade paints applied in five coats for maximum protection. Includes careful sanding, drying, and surface preparation to ensure lasting results against Kent's variable weather conditions.
Kent peg tile roofing
Installation and repair of authentic Kent peg tiles dating back to the 13th century. Our craftsmen use traditional hanging methods with wooden pegs to maintain historical accuracy while ensuring modern weatherproofing standards.
Kiln roof maintenance
Comprehensive maintenance for brick kiln roofs including tile replacement, weatherproofing, and structural support. We employ time-tested methods to prevent collapse and extend the lifespan of these historic structures.
Questions
What is an oast cowl?
An oast cowl is the distinctive rotating chimney structure found on traditional hop-drying oast houses, designed to control airflow during the drying process.
How long have you been repairing oast cowls?
We've been specialising in oast cowl restoration since 1937, making us the UK's longest-established family-run experts in this specialist field.
Do you work outside Kent?
While based in Kent, we provide oast cowl services nationwide, having completed projects from Norfolk to East Sussex and beyond.
What materials do you use?
We primarily use traditional timber and Kent peg tiles, though we can work with modern materials when necessary while maintaining heritage integrity.
Is fibreglass cowl better?
We specialise in traditional wooden cowls which offer superior heritage value, though we can refurbish fibreglass versions to improve their longevity and appearance.
Do you guarantee your work?
All our oast cowl work comes with a guarantee, reflecting our confidence in the quality and durability of our traditional craftsmanship.
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