Fibreglass roofs offer several advantages over felt ones: they’re more durable, longer-lasting and often cheaper.
GRP flat roofs can be retrofitted on top of existing structures without the need to replace insulation and timber decking, saving on cost for both. They come with a functional guttering system but may become blocked and require regular sweeping.
Cost
GRP flat roofs – often called fibreglass – are an extremely strong and easy-to-maintain option for new builds and those replacing traditional felt roofs in existing homes.
They are resistant to extreme weather conditions, moss growth, rotting and pest infestations. They are also easier to repair than EPDM roofing as any damage is usually localised rather than affecting the entire surface.
Installation takes one to three days and they typically start from £75-£130 per square metre, depending on its specifications, construction materials and finishes.
Durability
GRP – commonly known as fibreglass, FRP or GRP roof coating material – is a way of futureproofing a flat roof that has already begun cracking or leaking by applying resin-coated matting onto it. This creates a watertight barrier that will last for decades if properly maintained.
It can be used to cover any sized or shaped roof with no need for heat; this makes installation on new builds or over an existing structure less hazardous for professional installers.
Make sure your substrate is bone dry before applying the resin coating, as moisture will prevent it from sticking properly.
Noise
A popular choice in the UK due to its durability and affordability, GRP roofs can sometimes produce disruptive noise when their rigid sheets expand and contract; this is entirely normal but special expansion joints can be installed during the fitting process to reduce sound levels.
They are also prone to pinhole leakage. To avoid this risk clear debris with a brush or rake.
Moss growth will also shorten your roof’s lifespan by years, as will ponding – pools of water that gather in various places on the surface. Safely remove both.
Maintenance
GRP flat roofs need slightly more cleaning and attention than most other options but it is easily manageable by following recommended procedures. Remember, although fibreglass and GRP materials are heat, water and fire resistant compared with felt or rubber roofing, they still need to be regularly maintained to prevent water damage or mould growth.
A cheap sweeper can do the trick when it comes to cleaning off dirt or debris from your rooftop surface. For those who live around trees, don’t forget to prune branches, leaves, and twigs so that you reduce the build-up of debris that falls onto the roof.
If there are any holes or damages, try to repair them as promptly as possible. This is going to keep your structure’s integrity intact. You could either use a fibreglass repair kit or follow along with the online download guide or video that you find.