Felt roofing has long been a popular choice for flat roofs, sheds, and extensions, offering an affordable and functional solution for many homes. However, despite its widespread use, felt roofing can be prone to unexpected failures if not properly installed or maintained. At Rowley Regis Roofing Repairs, we’ve seen many common issues with felt roofing and know how to address them before they lead to more serious problems. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the surprising causes of felt roofing failures and the solutions that can keep your roof in top condition.
Common Causes of Felt Roofing Failures
- Poor Installation One of the most frequent causes of felt roofing failure is improper installation. If the felt is not laid correctly, it can lead to gaps, wrinkles, or uneven surfaces, which allow water to seep in. Common mistakes include using inadequate adhesives or failing to overlap the felt sheets properly, which compromises the roof’s waterproofing. Over time, these issues can lead to leaks and structural damage, especially after heavy rainfall.
- UV Damage Felt roofs, especially on flat roofs, are exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays for extended periods. UV radiation can cause the felt to become brittle and crack over time. This is particularly common on older roofs where the felt has not been treated with a protective coating. As the felt breaks down, water can penetrate the roof, leading to leaks and moisture damage within the structure.
- Foot Traffic Many people underestimate the impact that walking on a felt roof can have. Flat roofs are often used as access points for maintenance or storage, but felt roofing is not always designed to handle frequent foot traffic. Repeated walking or placing heavy objects on a felt roof can cause it to weaken, crack, or tear, leading to water ingress and long-term damage.
- Weather Extremes The British weather is notorious for its unpredictability, and felt roofing can suffer as a result. Heavy rain, snow, and ice can place a significant strain on the roof, leading to cracks or sagging areas where water can pool. Extreme temperature fluctuations—such as cold winters followed by hot summers—can also cause the felt to expand and contract, further weakening its structure and causing splits in the surface.
- Ponding Water Flat roofs, in particular, are susceptible to the problem of ponding water. This occurs when water doesn’t drain away properly, leading to pools of standing water on the surface. Over time, the weight of the water can cause the roof to sag and put additional strain on the felt material, increasing the likelihood of leaks and structural damage.
- Aging Felt Like all roofing materials, felt has a limited lifespan. Over time, even the best-maintained felt roofs will begin to show signs of wear and tear. Older felt roofs may start to blister, crack, or become loose at the edges, allowing water to penetrate and damage the underlying structure.
Solutions to Prevent and Fix Felt Roofing Failures
- Professional Installation The most effective way to prevent felt roofing failures is to ensure the roof is installed correctly from the outset. At Rowley Regis Roofing Repairs, we provide expert installation services to ensure that your felt roof is laid with precision, using high-quality materials and proper techniques. A well-installed felt roof will have proper overlaps, secure adhesion, and the necessary waterproofing to keep your home protected from the elements.
- UV Protection Applying a protective coating to felt roofing can help guard against UV damage. These coatings reflect harmful rays, prolonging the life of the felt and reducing the risk of cracks or brittleness. Regularly inspecting your roof and applying UV protection can help maintain its durability and ensure it remains weather-resistant.
- Limit Foot Traffic If your flat roof is used for maintenance access or storage, consider installing walkways or protective mats to distribute weight and minimise damage to the felt. Reducing foot traffic and avoiding placing heavy objects directly on the roof can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
- Regular Inspections and Maintenance Routine inspections can identify potential problems before they lead to costly repairs. Check your felt roof for any signs of wear, such as cracks, blisters, or areas where the felt has lifted. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems from developing. At Rowley Regis Roofing Repairs, we offer professional roof inspection services to catch problems before they escalate.
- Ensure Proper Drainage Proper drainage is crucial for flat felt roofs to avoid ponding water. Installing adequate drainage systems or ensuring existing drains are free from debris can help prevent water from pooling on the surface. If your roof already suffers from ponding water, it’s essential to address the underlying cause, such as poor roof design or sagging areas.
- Roof Replacement If your felt roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has suffered significant damage, replacing the felt may be the best solution. While repair options are available for minor issues, an old or severely damaged roof may require a full replacement to ensure long-term protection. A new felt roof, installed with modern techniques and materials, can offer years of reliable service.
Conclusion
Felt roofing failures can cause significant problems for homeowners if left unaddressed, but with proper care, many of these issues can be prevented. From ensuring proper installation to addressing UV damage and weather-related wear, there are plenty of solutions to keep your felt roof in excellent condition.
At Rowley Regis Roofing Repairs, we provide expert roofing services designed to protect your home and extend the life of your roof. Whether you need a full roof replacement or regular maintenance, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or discuss how we can help you with all your felt roofing needs.
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