Knowledge Builders

is fibreglass roof better than felt

by Scotty Walter Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Fibreglass is much more durable than felt and stronger too. It has no seams, so it’s less likely to fail and let water in, and it’s relatively easy for a professional to repair if damaged. The benefits of fibreglass roofing for the consumer are its durability, longevity and high performance.

Fibreglass is much more durable than felt and stronger too. It has no seams, so it's less likely to fail and let water in, and it's relatively easy for a professional to repair if damaged. The benefits of fibreglass roofing for the consumer are its durability, longevity and high performance.May 16, 2022

Full Answer

What is the difference between felt and fibreglass roofing?

Fibreglass vs Felt Roofing – the Key Benefits. Traditionally, flat roof materials included felt and lead. While these options were hard wearing and attractive, they didn’t always perform as well as expected. The expected life span of a felt roof could be as little as 5 years.

Is fibreglass roofing the best roofing material?

However, fibreglass is a stronger roof material. This makes it a better choice in areas that see intense rainfall and wind. So, for buildings that will experience severe weather, we recommend GRP or fibreglass roofing as the best roofing system. It’s also important to note that some newer felt roof systems offer greater longevity than 5-8 years.

What is the best roofing material for a flat roof?

Felt and GRP fibreglass roofing systems are the most popular systems for flat roofs. They are also suitable for pitched roofs in some applications. The popularity for both systems stems from different requirements, however. Felt is a cheaper material, fibreglass is more expensive.

What is the difference between GRP and felt roofing?

GRP, while waterproof like felt roofing, is laid out in a completely different manner using a liquid resin – which is not only safer for roofing engineers, but means that there is both room for more versatility in terms of the shape of your roof and that the job can be completed in double-quick time.

How long does a flat roof last?

What is GRP Fibreglass?

Is felt roofing good?

Is a new roof a big investment?

Can felt roofs be damaged?

Is bitumen a good alternative to roofing?

See 1 more

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Is fibreglass roofing any good?

Fibreglass roofing systems are known to be durable, have excellent longevity and high performance. While Fibreglass roofs are a newer edition to the roofing industry, they have a greater life expectancy of roughly 20-30 years.

Do fibreglass roofs crack?

Fibreglass roofs tend to be extremely durable but, like any roof, over time it can become worn and brittle and this results in cracks and holes appearing.

How long do fiberglass roofs last?

30-50 yearsWhile fiberglass shingles may cost more per square foot than your average asphalt shingles, their quality and longevity can add significant value to your home and save you money on costly roof repairs. With proper maintenance, you can expect fiberglass shingles to last for 30-50 years.

Can you fibreglass over felt roof?

Can I fibreglass onto roofing felt or on top of bitumen felt? No you cannot fibreglass directly onto roofing felt with conventional polyester resins which are used in fibreglass roof installations.

Can you walk on fibreglass roof?

Yes, a Fibreglass Roof can be walked on. Depending on the volume of foot traffic expected for the roof to take, this will determine the weight of matting that should be used in the construction of the roof.

Are fibreglass roofs noisy?

Common noises which can be heard from a fibreglass roof is the sound creaking and cracking.

What is the cost of a fiberglass roof?

They are less expensive than other asphalt types and other roofing materials but can be durable and last for years. The national average cost to install fiberglass roofing shingles is $5,250 to $10,500, with most people paying around $7,500 for 1,500 sq. ft. of installed fiberglass architectural shingles.

What color roof lasts the longest?

light colored roofsIn this regard, light colored roofs last longer than dark roofs, making them the better choice over dark colored roofs for homeowners.

How long does a 30 year roof really last?

Shingles Do Not Have a Guarantee The truth is, a 30-year shingle will not really last 30 years. The expected service life of a 30-year product, if properly cared for, is approximately 25 years. If it's not cared for properly, that 30 year shingle will only last 12 to 15 years.

What is the best type of flat roof?

EPDM Membranes Quite possibly the best flat roofing membrane, EPDM is a relatively low-cost flat roof material that offers a number of significant advantages. Clean, straightforward installation, incredible strength, a long lifespan, and a smart finish combine to make EPDM membranes a difficult one to beat.

How many layers of fibreglass do I need for a flat roof?

How many layers of fibreglass do I require for a flat roof? A. Generally, one layer of 600gm/sq. m chopped strand mat is the accepted norm.

How long does roofing felt last?

between 20 to 30 yearsAsphalt felt, the most common type of underlayment has a lifespan of between 20 to 30 years. However, in extreme extended conditions, its lifespan can be cut by half. Fortunately, new rubberised or synthetic asphalt underlayment has a longer lifespan of between 25 and 35 years.

Can a fibreglass roof be repaired?

We have 3 super easy products for fibreglass recoating and repairing. They're really effective and you can use them alone or together. Our incredible new GRP Restoration Coating will completely restore your roof. Our patches and sealant will fix holes and cracks.

How do you maintain a fiberglass roof?

Fiberglass roofs need minimal maintenance aside from the occasional brush or mop with water. If a fiberglass roof is showing signs of wear with cracks and pinholes, then a coating of acrylic or a gel coating can be applied to get the roof back to new.

How do you find a leak in a fibreglass roof?

Fibreglass Roof Cracks Cracks on a fibreglass roof are easy to identify, as they are typically visible to the naked eye. In less extreme cases, you might also notice surface flaking before a full-on crack emerges. The sooner these can be repaired, the better.

How thick is a fibreglass roof?

GRP roofing comes in slightly different thicknesses a standard 450g/m roof laminate installed onto OSB 3 18mm T+ G boards is rated (approx.) 13.3 kg/m² (OSB 18mm T + G 11kg/m²) weather tightness (excerpts from BBA Certificate).

What happens when a wood frame is soaked in moisture?

When the supporting wood frame soaks up moisture it begins to crack, stretch, twist and warp. This normally results in tears becoming more severe, allowing more moisture to find its way into the wood, the ultimate consequence is commonly mildew and fungal growth this will be relatively widespread before it will be noticeable within the building or home itself. This can signify a real health threat.

Is fiberglass roofing better than metal?

Fibreglass is highly valued for its light weight, which is far less than that of ceramic or metal roofing, and for its outstanding durability and insulating properties. Today, fibreglass flat roofs can be found in a wide selection of styles, colours and can be finished in many colours this solves the potential problem of ugly flat roofs as Fibreglass Roofing can be crafted to fit in perfect keeping with its surroundings

Does fibreglass roof crack?

Fibreglass flat roofing does not crack or blister in the British sun, or leak in our winter this is because it is a one piece installation with absolutely no joins or links fibreglass flat roofs never warp, stretch, twist or crack. Fibreglasss roofing fundamentally does not support the growth of mildew or moss, and when installed properly will guarantee 100% immediate water drainage Fiberglass flat roofing assures a completely waterproof home, meaning your home and family will stay dry .

Why use fibreglass roof?

Larger outbuildings, such as double garages and converted workspaces, will be better served by a fibreglass roof because you’ll be using them more. Therefore, a more durable roofing material will serve you for longer.

How long does a fibreglass roof last?

The benefits of fibreglass roofing for the consumer are its durability, longevity and high performance. A fibreglass roof will last for more than 20 years and it’s less likely than felt to develop a fault.

What type of roof is best for flat roofs?

Felt and GRP fibreglass roofing systems are the most popular systems for flat roofs. They are also suitable for pitched roofs in some applications.

What is the best roofing material for a pitched roof?

High performance. Fibreglass is a newer roofing system that lends itself best to flat roofing but is also suitable for pitched roofs in some applications. Fibreglass is much more durable than felt and stronger too.

How long does felt last on a roof?

The downside to roofing felt is its lifespan. Typical roofing felt will last for 5-8 years, depending on the weather it experiences.

Is fibreglass roofing good for the environment?

The primary benefit of fibreglass roofing for the roofer is that it’s prefabricated (it often comes pre-cut from the factory, allowing for quick installation). There’s also no wastage at all, which reduces the need to go to the local skip. This is also more environmentally friendly, since roof felt is not widely recycled.

Is fibreglass a good roof material?

However, fibreglass is a stronger roof material. This makes it a better choice in areas that see intense rainfall and wind. So, for buildings that will experience severe weather, we recommend GRP or fibreglass roofing as the best roofing system.

What is the best type of roofing for a commercial roof?

Two of the most popular choices for private and commercial roofing alike are felt roofing – which is considered a more traditional choice – and grp fibreglass roofing, which is a more contemporary option that is gaining popularity in the roofing trade and with homeowners alike.

What is the phone number for GRP roofing?

For more information on our services or to discuss a quote, simply call us on 0800 3118 262 at your convenience – and we will be happy to bring the benefits of long-lasting and effective GRP roofing to your home or business in no time at all.

Is felt roofing a reliable material?

While felt roofing has been a reliable and common source of roofing material over the decades, the emergence of fibreglass roofing has likely kicked the outdated material into touch – making it a popular choice for professionals and homeowners alike.

Is felt roofing waterproof?

Felt roofing has been used in roofing installation for the good part of a century now and is therefore considered to be a ‘tried and tested’ material – in addition to this, compared to other materials and options available, it’s less costly and effectively waterproof – it’s also no hassle whatsoever to lay down and put in place. However, in comparison with fibreglass roofing, felt installations simply do not have the staying power, making them much more susceptible to external damage, weather intrusion and moisture build-up, meaning that they could cause mould problems only a short time into their use. Felt roofing requires much attention, in terms of repairs and quick fixes – meaning that it may not be as cost-effective as it first appears.

Does felt roofing have staying power?

However, in comparison with fibreglass roofing, felt installations simply do not have the staying power, making them much more susceptible to external damage, weather intrusion and moisture build-up, meaning that they could cause mould problems only a short time into their use.

Is GRP a good roofing material?

GRP fibreglass roofing has fast become the choice of roofing professionals and those who have suffered with poor quality roofs and materials in the past. GRP, while waterproof like felt roofing, is laid out in a completely different manner using a liquid resin – which is not only safer for roofing engineers, but means that there is both room for more versatility in terms of the shape of your roof and that the job can be completed in double-quick time. GRP roofing is also built to withstand weather and common outside damage, and was developed to withstand years of constant use. This makes for a roof that will withstand almost anything that is thrown at it. While the cost of GRP is higher than that of felt roofing and its contemporaries, the very fact that you will not need to repair and fix your roof regularly makes it more than worth the price of admission.

Why Choose a Flat Roof?

Compact in design, flat roofs are perfect for small structures which are more of an ‘add-on’ to your property. They provide a cost-effective solution when selecting a roof for these areas of the home while also providing easy long term upkeep. While not sloped like a pitched roof, they’re angled slightly to allow rainwater to drain away from your roofing area. Flat roofs are also simpler to construct, and with fewer labour costs, they offer an affordable alternative to pitched roofs while helping to complete the work in a shorter timeframe.

Why are flat roofs angled?

While not sloped like a pitched roof, they’re angled slightly to allow rainwater to drain away from your roofing area. Flat roofs are also simpler to construct, and with fewer labour costs, they offer an affordable alternative to pitched roofs while helping to complete the work in a shorter timeframe.

What is a GRP roof?

While felt may be the most traditional form of flat roofing, GRP (glass reinforced plastic) fibreglass is now becoming more popular. This material consists of a layer of polyester resin which is reinforced with glass fibres to form a laminated layer. Its unique construction gives it waterproofing properties for one of the most durable flat roofs on ...

What is flat roofing?

Flat roofing is popular throughout Surrey, Kent and surrounding areas, being ideal for property structures such as extensions, porches, garages and dormers. When planning a new flat roof, one of the key decisions you’ll make is which material to use. Two of the most commonly used products are felt and GRP fibreglass, but which one is best for your home?

Why is bitumen important for flat roofs?

Unlike flat roofs in older properties, modern bitumen has more contraction and expansion benefits, helping them to last longer than ever before.

Where is Collier Roofing?

We have decades of experience, delivering high quality roofing services across areas such as Caterham, Croydon and Kenley. Get in touch to find out more about the types of material we recommend for new and replacement flat roofs.

Does a bonded roof need a hot flame?

The tightly bonded finish ensures your roof remains completely sealed, allowing no moisture to make its way in and a strong roof which won’t rip or deteriorate. No hot flames are required for installation, and the result is a high quality flat roof which will last for many years.

How long does a FG roof last?

2, a FG roof may well have a life expectancy of 25 years, but enquire as to the limitations of the waterproofing warranty the installer might provide - you might be surprised how much (paid for) maintenance will be required for a FG roof.

Does a trade last if fitted correctly?

Same as most trades, if its fitted correctly it will last.

How long does a flat roof last?

The expected life span of a felt roof could be as little as 5 years. Bitumen, a viscous liquid, was one alternative, yet its adhesive properties and sensitivity to heat made it unsuitable for some uses.

What is GRP Fibreglass?

Our trained roofers use GRP fibreglass in many new roof installations. Branded CrysticROOF, the material lets us deploy the most modern and innovative roofing techniques.

Is felt roofing good?

It’s affordable, lightweight and relatively easy to install, and it does a good job at keeping water out.

Is a new roof a big investment?

A new roof is a big investment, but help is at hand. South Thames Roofing are here to help you select the right roofing materials for your property. Whether you’re a domestic customer looking for an upgrade, an architect investigating new techniques or a business looking to protect your assets, we’ve got a roofing solution to fit the bill.

Can felt roofs be damaged?

Once you have layers of moisture within the roof, which are being warmed frequently, you’ll inevitably see, mould and rot start to appear and quite soon the roof will need replacing. Felt roof materials are also susceptible to weather damage from wind and rain, since felt is quite delicate.

Is bitumen a good alternative to roofing?

Bitumen, a viscous liquid, was one alternative, yet its adhesive properties and sensitivity to heat made it unsuitable for some uses. Homeowners are increasingly turning their back on traditional roofing materials and looking for longer-lasting alternatives.

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