Flat Roofing and Felt Roofing in Northampton

It depends on the system and how well it was installed. As a rough guide, older style felt roofs often needed replacing after 10 to 20 years, while modern GRP and EPDM roofs are commonly expected to last 20 years or more. Good drainage, clear outlets and fixing small splits early all help any flat roof last longer.

Neither is better in every case, because they suit different roofs. GRP fibreglass gives a hard, seamless finish that works well on roofs with lots of detail or that need occasional foot access for maintenance. EPDM rubber is flexible, handles temperature changes well and is often laid in a single sheet. We look at the size, shape and use of your roof before recommending one.

Yes, often it can. Splits, lifted edges, failed joints and small areas of damage can usually be repaired if the rest of the covering and the deck underneath are in good condition. If the roof has been patched many times, has widespread blistering or the boards below are rotten, a replacement is usually the better long-term option.

Standing water, often called ponding, usually means the roof does not have enough fall or the deck has sagged in places. A little water that dries within a day or two is common, but puddles that stay longer put extra strain on the covering and can lead to leaks. The fall can often be improved when the roof is next replaced.

Yes, a replacement is the ideal time to improve a flat roof’s insulation. Insulation boards can be laid over the deck and beneath the new waterproof layer, which is known as a warm roof, helping keep the room below more comfortable. It can raise the roof level slightly, so edges and upstands need planning in, and it is something we can discuss when we quote.