The traditional method for finishing a flat roof is with a combination of felt and bitumen. Although this option does provide an attractive and durable result, it’s not particularly reliable over the long term. That’s why GRP roof repairs and roof installations are becoming increasingly popular.
GRP (also known as glass-reinforced plastic or fibreglass) is an extremely strong yet lightweight material that can be quickly and easily applied to flat roofs, providing a robust and weathertight finish that should last for many years. It is suitable for a wide range of projects, from domestic applications like small garden sheds, garages and house extensions, all the way through to massive commercial buildings like sports stadia and shopping centres.
The benefits of GRP roofing
GRP offers a number of benefits over traditional felt roofs – from its lifespan to its resistance to weather impact, mould, rot and fire. It is cold-applied, simplifying the installation process, and it can even be applied over existing roofing solutions, so you don’t need to worry about removing the old roofing materials before carrying out flat roof repairs.
| Flat roofing: GRP vs felt | ||
| GRP | Felt | |
| Expected lifespan | 25+ years | 5-10 years |
| Can be installed over an existing solution | ✓ | X |
| Resistant to fire | ✓ | X |
| Capable of withstanding regular foot traffic | ✓ | X |
| Mould and rot resistant | ✓ | X |
| Weather resistant | ✓ | X |
| Cold applied | ✓ | X |
| Quick installation | ✓ | X |
When a flat roof needs to be repaired, a quick solution is essential. After all, water and wind can cause a lot of damage in very little time. One of the main benefits of GRP – both for flat roof installations and repairs – is that it’s a cold-applied liquid, meaning that it is quick and easy to install. This is also advantageous for new roof projects, as it means you won’t have to wait long for the roof to be completed.
GRP is also a versatile material, and that’s why we also use it to construct other elements of a roof – such as architectural mouldings and upstands for roof windows and ventilation units, and it can be used to provide reliable weatherproofing around building penetrations.
GRP roof repairs and flat roof installations from Jones and Woolman UK
Here at Jones and Woolman UK, our team has extensive experience in both installing GRP flat roofs and carrying out flat roof repairs.
We work with a wide range of customers, from homeowners wishing to carry out improvements or repairs, through specifiers responsible for large commercial buildings. No job is too big or too small, and we are committed to providing a high level of service to every one of our customers.
Every month we buy in around two metric tonnes of GRP, and buying in bulk like this saves us around 40% on materials – savings that we pass on to you.
Whether you’re looking to repair a flat roof or install a new one, and whether it’s a garden shed or an international airport terminal, Jones and Woolman UK can help. To find out more or to discuss your project in more detail, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
