The group’s Exteriors business – which sells roofing products – was hardest hit.

In a trading update today SIG confirmed that sales at the Exteriors division in UK and Ireland fell 5.9% in the final quarter of 2015 compared to the previous year.

Domestic sales decreased 1% across the whole company during the period.

Like for like revenue increased by 0.2% across the whole company in 2015 as turnover hit £2,565m.

SIG added: “In line with previous guidance the Group continues to expect that gross margin will be flat year-on-year. 

“It also anticipates that underlying profit before tax for 2015 will be within its previously stated £85m to £90m range.”