Felt Flat Roofs in Newcastle: What You Need to Know

Flat roofs have become increasingly popular in Newcastle, particularly for extensions, garages, and commercial buildings. Among the various options available, felt flat roofs are one of the most reliable and cost-effective choices.

They provide excellent waterproofing and are relatively simple to install, making them a go-to solution for many property owners.

At Roofing Newcastle, we’ve installed and maintained countless felt flat roofs across the city. Our team brings extensive local expertise and experience in flat roofing projects specific to Newcastle upon Tyne. In this article, we’ll explore what felt flat roofs are, their benefits, and why they might be the right option for your home or business.

What is a Felt Flat Roof?

A felt flat roof is constructed using layers of bitumen felt material, which is heated and applied to the roof surface to create a watertight barrier. Typically, multiple layers of felt are used, ensuring durability and enhanced weather protection.

The final layer is often finished with a mineral coating to provide additional UV protection and improve the roof’s overall lifespan. This type of roofing has been a popular choice in Newcastle for decades due to its affordability and effectiveness in our climate.

Types of Felt Flat Roofs

When it comes to felt flat roofs, there are several types to choose from, each with its own set of advantages:

• Built-up Felt Roofs: These are the most common type, consisting of multiple layers of felt material. The layers are bonded together to create a durable and waterproof surface, making them a popular choice for many properties.
• Mastic Asphalt Felt Roofs: Combining felt and mastic asphalt, these roofs offer enhanced durability and waterproofing. The mastic asphalt provides a tough, resilient surface that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Self-adhesive Felt Roofs: These roofs use a self-adhesive felt material that is easy to install. The adhesive backing ensures a strong bond to the roof surface, making the installation process quicker and simpler.
• Torch-on Felt Roofs: Applied using a blowtorch, torch-on felt roofs provide a strong and durable bond. The heat from the blowtorch melts the bitumen in the felt, creating a seamless and watertight seal.

Each type of felt flat roof has its own benefits, and the best choice will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your property. Whether you prioritise ease of installation, durability, or cost, there’s a felt flat roof option that will suit your needs.

Benefits of Felt Flat Roofing

When considering a flat roof for your property, felt roofing offers several advantages. Modern flat roofing systems enhance structural integrity and durability, preventing issues like water pooling and providing various design options:

• Cost-effective: Felt flat roofs are one of the most affordable roofing options available. They provide excellent value for money without sacrificing quality.
• Quick installation: Installing a felt roof is a relatively fast process compared to other roofing methods. This reduces labour costs and minimises disruption to your property.
• Durable: When properly installed and maintained, a felt roof can last up to 20 years or more, depending on the materials used and the environment.
• Waterproof: Felt is a waterproof material by nature, making it an excellent choice for Newcastle’s rainy climate.
• Adaptable: Felt flat roofs can be applied to almost any flat surface, making them ideal for a wide range of buildings, including garages, sheds, and home extensions.

Why Choose Felt Flat Roofing in Newcastle?

Newcastle’s weather can be challenging, with heavy rainfall and strong winds common throughout the year. For this reason, having a durable, waterproof roof is essential. Felt flat roofs offer a great solution for homes and commercial properties alike, providing the protection needed to withstand the city’s unpredictable weather patterns.

At Roofing Newcastle, we often recommend felt roofing for clients looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re looking to replace an existing roof or install one on a new extension, felt flat roofs offer the reliability and longevity that Newcastle homeowners and businesses need. Our expertise in flat roofing solutions is specifically tailored for the North East region, ensuring optimal performance against local weather conditions.

The Installation Process

The installation of a felt flat roof involves several key steps to ensure a watertight seal and long-lasting durability. At Roofing Newcastle, we follow a meticulous process to guarantee the best results:

1. Preparation: The existing roof surface is thoroughly cleaned, and any damage is repaired before laying the felt. This ensures the roof will have a smooth, secure base for installation.
2. Laying the felt: The first layer of felt is applied, usually with the help of heat to bond the material to the roof. Multiple layers of felt are then added for extra strength and waterproofing.
3. Finishing touches: Once the felt layers are in place, the final surface is finished with a mineral coating to protect against UV rays and extend the roof’s lifespan.

Proper flat roofs construction is crucial for ensuring the durability and longevity of your roof.

The installation process is usually completed within a day or two, depending on the size of the roof. This means you can enjoy a new, watertight roof with minimal disruption to your home or business.

Pre-installation Requirements

Before installing a felt flat roof, it’s crucial to ensure that the roof surface is properly prepared. This preparation is key to achieving a strong, durable, and long-lasting roof:

1. Cleaning the Roof Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the roof surface to remove any dirt, debris, or old roofing materials. A clean surface ensures that the felt material will adhere properly.
2. Inspecting for Damage: Carefully inspect the roof for any damage or defects. Any necessary repairs should be made before installation to provide a smooth and secure base for the felt.
3. Priming the Surface: Apply a suitable primer to the roof surface. This step is essential for ensuring a strong bond between the felt material and the roof, enhancing the overall durability of the installation.
4. Ensuring Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to leaks and other issues. Make sure the roof is well-ventilated to maintain its integrity over time.

By following these pre-installation steps, you can ensure that your felt flat roof is installed on a solid foundation, providing reliable protection for years to come.

Maintenance and Lifespan of Felt Flat Roofs

Felt flat roofs are relatively low maintenance, but regular inspections can help extend their lifespan. Over time, felt roofs may develop small cracks or blisters, especially if exposed to extreme weather. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and ensure your roof lasts as long as possible.

At Roofing Newcastle, we recommend an annual roof inspection to check for any signs of wear and tear. If necessary, repairs can be carried out to keep your roof in top condition. Proper flat roof repairs are crucial for extending the lifespan of your roof and ensuring long-lasting results.

With proper maintenance, a felt flat roof can last anywhere between 15 to 20 years. The mineral coating applied during installation helps to protect the roof from the elements, adding to its longevity.

Common Issues with Felt Flat Roofs

While felt flat roofs are durable and cost-effective, they are not without potential issues. Here are some common problems that may arise:

• Ponding: Flat roofs can sometimes experience water pooling, especially if the roof isn’t perfectly level. If not addressed, this can lead to leaks and damage to the roof’s structure.
• Cracking: Over time, felt roofs may develop small cracks or splits, particularly if exposed to extreme temperatures.
• Blistering: Felt roofs can occasionally develop blisters, which occur when air or moisture becomes trapped between the layers of felt.

While these issues are not uncommon, they can be resolved with prompt attention. Regular inspections and maintenance can help catch these problems early before they lead to more significant damage. Addressing a damaged flat roof promptly is crucial to prevent further issues and maintain the integrity of the structure.

Repair Options for Felt Flat Roofs

Felt flat roofs are known for their durability, but like any roofing system, they may require repairs over time. Here are some common repair options:

1. Patching Small Holes or Cracks: For minor damage, a patching compound can be used to seal any holes or cracks in the felt material. This quick fix can prevent leaks and further deterioration.
2. Applying a New Layer of Felt: For more extensive damage, a new layer of felt material can be applied over the existing roof surface. This method reinforces the roof and restores its waterproofing capabilities.
3. Complete Roof Replacement: In cases where the damage is extensive or the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, a complete replacement may be necessary. This involves removing the old felt and installing a new felt flat roof.

Addressing repairs promptly is essential to prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your felt flat roof. Regular inspections can help identify issues early, allowing for timely and effective repairs.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

When installing a felt flat roof, choosing the right contractor is crucial. Poor installation can lead to leaks, ponding, and reduced longevity. At Roofing Newcastle, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality felt roof installations that stand the test of time. Our team of experienced roofers ensures every installation is carried out to the highest standards, using the best materials available. We offer a variety of flat roofing services, including installation, repair, maintenance, and waterproofing, catering to both residential and commercial needs.

Felt Roofing Contractors in Newcastle

Choosing the right felt roofing contractor in Newcastle is crucial for ensuring a high-quality installation or repair. Here are some tips to help you find a reputable contractor:

1. Look for Professional Memberships: Contractors who are members of professional organisations, such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), are more likely to adhere to high standards of workmanship.
2. Check Online Reviews: Reading online reviews can provide insights into the contractor’s reputation and the quality of their work. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback from previous clients.
3. Ask for References: A reputable contractor should be able to provide references from past clients. Contacting these references can give you a better understanding of the contractor’s reliability and expertise.
4. Verify Qualifications and Certifications: Ensure that the contractor has the necessary qualifications and certifications, such as the City & Guilds qualification in roofing. This demonstrates their knowledge and competence in the field.

By choosing a reputable and experienced felt roofing contractor, you can have confidence that your felt flat roof will be installed or repaired to the highest standards, providing reliable protection for your property.

Is a Felt Flat Roof Right for Your Property?

Felt flat roofs are an excellent choice for many types of buildings, from residential extensions to commercial properties. They are particularly suitable for extension flat roofs and dormer flat roofs, offering a practical, cost-effective solution for those looking for a durable, waterproof roof that won’t break the bank.

If you’re in Newcastle and considering a felt flat roof, get in touch with Roofing Newcastle today. We can assess your property and provide expert advice on whether a felt roof is the best option for you.

Conclusion

For Newcastle homeowners and businesses, felt flat roofs provide a reliable and affordable roofing solution. With their waterproofing capabilities, ease of installation, and low maintenance requirements, they are ideal for properties looking for a long-lasting roof in a city known for its rainy weather. Additionally, new flat roofs offer significant benefits for garage roofs, including enhanced durability and long-term savings by preventing water damage.

At Roofing Newcastle, we specialise in felt flat roof installations that are built to last. Whether you’re looking to replace an old roof or install a new one, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your roofing needs and get a free quote.