Oast houses are a traditional feature of the British countryside, and their distinctive cowls are an iconic part of the landscape. These structures were originally used for drying hops, an important ingredient in beer production. Today, many oast houses have been converted into homes, and the cowls remain an important part of their design.
Oast cowls come in a variety of styles, each with its own unique design and history. The most common type is the Kentish cowl, which features a circular shape and a conical roof. Other styles include the Sussex cowl, which has a more pointed roof, and the Herefordshire and Worcestershire cowl, which has a distinctive pointed top and no cap. Each style has its own unique history and cultural significance, and can be found in different parts of the country.
Key Takeaways
Oast cowls are an important part of the design of traditional British oast houses, which were originally used for drying hops.
There are several different styles of oast cowls, each with its own unique design and history.
Oast cowls can be found in different parts of the country and are an important part of British cultural heritage.
History of Oast Cowls
Oast cowls are an iconic feature of the Kentish and Sussex landscapes, and are also found in Herefordshire. These cowls are the distinctive conical roofs that sit atop oast houses, which were used for drying hops. The cowls have a rich history, which is explored in this section.
Evolution in Kent
The cowl's primary function was to extract the hot air and moisture from the drying hops in the oast house. The first cowls were made of straw and were not particularly effective. The Kentish-style cowl, which is still the most common, was developed in the 18th century. It has a distinctive shape, with a pointed top and a flared base. The cowl is designed to rotate in the wind, which helps to draw the hot air and moisture out of the oast house.
Kentish cowls were originally made of wood, but in the 19th century, they began to be made of cast iron. This made them more durable and easier to maintain. The Kentish-style cowl is still the most common, and it is instantly recognisable as a symbol of Kent.
Spread to Sussex and Herefordshire
The Kentish-style cowl was so successful that it soon spread to Sussex, where it became the dominant style. Sussex cowls are similar to Kentish cowls, but they are slightly shorter and wider. In Herefordshire, the cowl has a more squat and rounded shape, and is often made of brick.
Cowls are not just functional, they are also decorative. Kentish cowls often have a distinctive finger, which is fitted to the centre post and attached to the backboard. This helps the cowl to turn in the wind, and it also adds an extra decorative element to the cowl.
In conclusion, the history of oast cowls is a fascinating subject, and one that is closely tied to the history of hop farming in the UK. The Kentish-style cowl is still the most common, but there are many other styles to be found across the country. Whether functional or decorative, the cowl remains an important part of the British landscape.
Design and Functionality
Oast cowls are an iconic symbol of the British countryside, and their unique designs and functionality have contributed to their popularity. While there is no standard blueprint for an oast design, they mostly fall into two categories - the circle kiln and the square kiln. Even within these two basic oast cowl designs, there was a huge degree of artistic license used by builders, meaning that each oast house has its own truly unique design.
Kentish Cowl Characteristics
The Kentish cowl is the traditional cowl found on most oast houses. It has a distinctive conical shape with a circular cap at the top, which is designed to rotate with the wind. The cap is fitted with a weather vane, which helps to determine the direction of the wind. The Kentish cowl is usually adorned with a decorative motif, which can range from animals such as horses, cockerels, and pheasants, to agricultural symbols like tractors. The motifs are not just for decoration, but also serve a functional purpose, as they help to identify the different oast houses in the area.
Sussex Cowl Variations
The Sussex cowl is similar in design to the Kentish cowl, but it has some variations. The cap of the Sussex cowl is usually square or rectangular in shape, and it is fitted with a wooden finial, which is designed to prevent rainwater from entering the kiln. The Sussex cowl is also adorned with a decorative motif, which can range from animals to agricultural symbols. However, the motifs on Sussex cowls tend to be more intricate and detailed than those on Kentish cowls.
Hereford and Worcester Styles
The Hereford and Worcester styles of oast cowls are less common than the Kentish and Sussex styles, but they are still an important part of the British countryside. The Hereford style cowl has a square cap with a weather vane, while the Worcester style cowl has a circular cap with a wooden finial. Both styles are adorned with decorative motifs, which can range from animals to agricultural symbols.
In conclusion, the design and functionality of oast cowls have made them an iconic symbol of the British countryside. The Kentish cowl is the most common style of oast cowl, with its distinctive conical shape and circular cap, while the Sussex cowl has some variations, including a square or rectangular cap and a wooden finial. The Hereford and Worcester styles of oast cowls are less common, but still an important part of the British countryside, with their square and circular caps and decorative motifs.
Materials and Construction
Traditional Materials
Oast cowls were traditionally constructed using materials such as Kent peg tiles, lath, and leaded lights. Kent peg tiles were used to cover the conical roof of the oast, while lath was used to support the tiles. Leaded lights were used to provide light and ventilation to the kiln below. The tiles were laid in a herringbone pattern, with each tile overlapping the one below it to create a watertight seal.
Modern Adaptations
In modern times, fibreglass has become a popular alternative to traditional materials. It is lightweight, durable, and easy to install. Fibreglass oast cowls are made using a mould, which allows for a consistent shape and size. They are available in a range of colours and finishes, making them a versatile choice for modern oast houses.
While fibreglass may be a popular choice for modern oast cowls, some purists argue that it lacks the authenticity and character of traditional materials. Additionally, some local councils may require that oast cowls be constructed using traditional materials in order to maintain the historical integrity of the area.
Overall, the choice of materials and construction method for oast cowls depends on the desired aesthetic, budget, and local regulations. Whether using traditional materials or modern adaptations, it is important to ensure that the cowl is properly constructed and installed to ensure its longevity and functionality.
Cowl Maintenance and Restoration
Maintaining and restoring an oast cowl is essential to ensure its longevity and to keep the oast house functioning properly. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems and reduce the need for costly repairs. In this section, we will discuss routine maintenance and restoration techniques for oast cowls.
Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance involves regular checks and cleaning of the cowl. It is recommended to inspect the cowl at least once a year, especially after a storm or high winds. During the inspection, check for any cracks, missing tiles, or other damage. If any damage is found, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Cleaning the cowl is also important as it helps to remove any dirt, debris, or bird droppings that may have accumulated on the cowl. Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to clean the cowl. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they can damage the cowl.
Restoration Techniques
Restoration techniques are used when the cowl is damaged or has deteriorated over time. Restoration can involve repairing or replacing the damaged parts of the cowl. The restoration process should be carried out by a professional who has experience in working with oast cowls.
If the damage is minor, it can be repaired by replacing the damaged tiles or patching up any cracks. However, if the damage is extensive, it may be necessary to replace the entire cowl. In such cases, it is important to ensure that the replacement cowl is in keeping with the original design of the oast house.
Great Dixter, a historic house in East Sussex, is a great example of a well-maintained and restored oast house. The house has several oast cowls that have been carefully restored to their original condition. The restoration work was carried out by professionals who used traditional techniques and materials to ensure that the cowls were restored to their original design.
In conclusion, routine maintenance and restoration are essential for the longevity and proper functioning of an oast cowl. Regular checks and cleaning can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Restoration techniques should be carried out by professionals who have experience in working with oast cowls. Great Dixter is an excellent example of a well-maintained and restored oast house.
Cowl Manufacturing and Installation
When it comes to manufacturing and installing oast cowls, there are two main techniques: handcrafted and industrial production. Both techniques have their pros and cons, and it is up to the customer to decide which one is the best for their particular needs.
Handcrafted Techniques
Handcrafted oast cowls are made by skilled craftsmen who have years of experience in the field. They use traditional techniques and tools to create cowls that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The process starts with selecting the right type of wood, usually oak or chestnut, which is then seasoned for several months to ensure that it is dry enough to be worked on.
Once the wood is ready, the craftsman will start shaping it using chisels and other hand tools. This process can take several days, depending on the complexity of the design. Once the cowl is finished, it is treated with a weather-resistant coating and installed on top of the oast house.
Industrial Production
Industrial production of oast cowls involves the use of modern machinery and techniques to create cowls that are more affordable and can be produced in large quantities. The process starts with selecting the right type of wood, which is then cut and shaped using CNC machines.
Once the wood is cut and shaped, it is treated with a weather-resistant coating and installed on top of the oast house. This process is much faster than handcrafted techniques and can produce cowls in large quantities.
In conclusion, both handcrafted and industrial production techniques have their pros and cons when it comes to manufacturing and installing oast cowls. It is up to the customer to decide which one is the best for their particular needs.
Oast Houses and the Brewing Industry
Oast houses are an iconic feature of the brewing industry in Kent, England. They were designed for kilning (drying) hops as part of the brewing process. The oast houses are a good example of vernacular architecture and can be found in most hop-growing areas.
Role in Hops Drying
The oast houses played a crucial role in the drying of hops. The freshly harvested hops were spread out on large drying floors in the oast, while the kiln, fueled by wood or coal, provided the necessary heat to dry the hops. The oast cowl, which sits on top of the kiln, was designed to draw hot air out of the kiln and create a draft to circulate the heat evenly around the hops.
Malting Process
The malting process is an important part of the brewing process. The malted barley is used to make the beer, and the oast houses played a role in this process as well. The barley was soaked in water to start the germination process, and then spread out on a malting floor to dry. The oast houses were used to dry the malted barley, which was then crushed and used in the brewing process.
Overall, oast houses played a vital role in the brewing industry in Kent, England. They were used to dry hops and malted barley, which were essential ingredients in beer-making. The oast cowl, with its distinctive shape, was an important part of the oast house design, helping to create the necessary draft to circulate the heat evenly around the hops.
Cultural Significance and Iconography
Oast Cowl as a Regional Icon
The oast cowl is an iconic symbol of the counties of Kent and Sussex, and an important feature of the region's cultural heritage. The use of finger-like projections on the cowl is a distinctive characteristic of the oast houses in this area. The finger is a decorative element that adds to the overall charm of the structure. The cowl's design is also functional, allowing hot air to escape through the roof while keeping out rain and other inclement weather.
The Sussex oast cowl is a specific style of cowl that is unique to the region. It is characterized by its conical shape and the use of a pointed finial at the top. This style of cowl is often decorated with ornate patterns and designs that reflect the local culture and history. The Sussex oast cowl is an important part of the region's identity and is often used in marketing and promotional materials to showcase the area's heritage and traditions.
Cowl in Decoration and Architecture
The oast cowl is not only used in the architecture of oast houses, but it has also been incorporated into other forms of construction and decoration. The cowl has been used as a decorative element on buildings such as barns and houses, adding a touch of regional character to the structure.
In addition to its decorative use, the cowl has also been used as a functional element in other types of buildings. For example, the cowl has been used on breweries and maltings to help regulate the temperature and humidity of the building. The design of the cowl allows hot air to escape while keeping out rain and other weather elements, making it an ideal feature for buildings that require a controlled environment.
Overall, the oast cowl is an important symbol of the region's cultural heritage and an iconic feature of its architecture. Its unique design and functionality have made it an important element in the construction and decoration of buildings throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the various designs available for oast cowls?
Oast cowls come in a variety of designs, including the square, rectangular, and round kiln styles. The most recognisable oast cowl design is the round kiln, which is the most common type found in Kent and other areas of the UK. Other designs include the square kiln, the rectangular kiln, and the hop kiln.
How can one differentiate between traditional and modern oast cowl designs?
Traditional oast cowls are typically made of wood and feature a conical shape with a pointed top. Modern designs, on the other hand, are often made of fibreglass or other synthetic materials and may have a more streamlined shape. The traditional designs are often more ornate and decorative, while modern designs tend to be more functional.
What purpose does the cowl serve atop an oast house?
The cowl serves two primary purposes atop an oast house. Firstly, it helps to regulate the temperature inside the kiln by allowing hot air to escape while preventing rain and other elements from entering. Secondly, it helps to create a draft that draws air through the kiln, which is essential for drying hops and other crops.
Is there a functional advantage to having a rotating cowl on a chimney?
Yes, a rotating cowl can provide several functional advantages. Firstly, it can help to increase the draft, which can improve the efficiency of the kiln. Secondly, it can help to prevent downdrafts, which can cause smoke and other fumes to enter the kiln. Finally, it can help to prevent birds and other animals from entering the chimney.
Why do some oast houses feature a square design?
The square design was originally developed as a way to improve the efficiency of the kiln. The square shape allowed for more efficient use of space and better heat distribution, which made it possible to dry more hops at once. Today, the square design is less common than the round kiln, but it is still used in some areas of the UK.
What terminology is used to describe the top section of an oast house?
The top section of an oast house is typically referred to as the cowl or the kiln. The cowl is the rotating section that sits atop the kiln and helps to regulate the temperature and create a draft. The kiln is the main body of the oast house, where the hops or other crops are dried.