Felt Roof Repair
Felt roofing remains a popular choice due to its affordability, durability, and versatility. However, like all roofing materials, felt roofs can experience wear and tear over time, leading to leaks, cracks, and lifting seams. Timely felt roof repair can extend the life of your roof and prevent costly damage. In this guide, we’ll explore common felt roof problems, repair solutions, and essential maintenance tips.
Common Felt Roof Problems
- Cracks and Splits: Over time, UV exposure and weather changes can cause felt to become brittle and crack.
- Blistering and Bubbles: Moisture trapped beneath the felt can form blisters or bubbles, which weaken the roofing structure.
- Torn or Loose Felt Edges: Wind and storms can lift the edges of the felt, creating gaps that allow water to seep in.
- Ponding Water: Flat felt roofs are prone to water pooling, which can damage the felt and cause it to sag.
- Leaks and Damp Patches: Damaged felt can lead to water ingress, causing leaks and damp patches inside your property.
Felt Roof Repair Solutions
1. Patching Small Cracks and Holes
Best for: Small tears, cracks, or punctures.
Process:
- Clean the damaged area to remove dirt and debris.
- Apply a roofing adhesive to the area.
- Place a patch of new felt over the damage and seal the edges with bitumen or waterproof adhesive.
2. Re-Sealing Blisters and Bubbles
Best for: Blisters caused by trapped moisture.
Process:
- Carefully cut an "X" into the blister and peel back the felt to expose the trapped moisture.
- Dry the area thoroughly.
- Apply roofing adhesive and press the felt back into place.
- Cover with a layer of bitumen for extra waterproofing.
3. Replacing Loose or Damaged Felt Sections
Best for: Sections with severe tears or lifted edges.
Process:
- Remove the damaged felt and clean the surface.
- Cut a new piece of felt to size and secure it with adhesive or torch-on bitumen.
- Ensure all seams are sealed properly to prevent water ingress.
4. Full Felt Roof Overlay
Best for: When the overall roof is worn but the structure is sound.
Process:
- A new layer of felt is applied over the existing roof, creating a fresh, watertight seal.
- Torch-on or self-adhesive felt options provide durable protection.
5. Complete Felt Roof Replacement
Best for: When the roof is severely damaged or past its lifespan (typically 15–20 years).
Process:
- The old felt is removed, and any damaged roof decking is replaced.
- Layers of underlay felt and topcoat felt are applied for maximum protection.
Materials Used for Felt Roof Repairs
- Bitumen Felt: Traditional felt roofing material, commonly used for flat roofs.
- Torch-On Felt: Applied using a heat torch for a stronger bond and increased durability.
- Self-Adhesive Felt: Quick and easy to apply, often used for DIY repairs.
Why Hire Professionals for Felt Roof Repair?
- Safety and Equipment: Roofers are trained to work safely at heights and use specialized equipment.
- Quality Repairs: Professional roofers use high-quality materials and techniques to ensure a durable repair.
- Cost-Effective: Timely repairs by experts prevent further damage and reduce the risk of costly replacements.
- Warranty and Assurance: Reputable roofing companies offer warranties on their work for added peace of mind.
Cost of Felt Roof Repairs
- Small Repairs (Cracks, Tears, Blisters): £100 – £300
- Replacing a Section of Felt: £300 – £1,000 (depending on the size)
- Full Roof Replacement: £2,500 – £6,000 (based on roof size and type of felt used)
Maintenance Tips for Felt Roofs
- Clear Debris Regularly: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris to prevent blocked drainage and water pooling.
- Inspect After Heavy Rain or Storms: Check for visible damage, such as lifted edges or tears, after extreme weather events.
- Clean Gutters and Downpipes: Ensure gutters and downpipes are free from blockages to allow water to flow away from the roof.
- Avoid Walking on the Roof: Minimize foot traffic on your felt roof to avoid punctures and unnecessary wear.
- Annual Professional Inspection: Hire a professional roofer to inspect your felt roof at least once a year to catch any potential issues early.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
- Age of the Roof: If your felt roof is over 15–20 years old, replacement may be more cost-effective.
- Recurrent Leaks: Persistent leaks despite multiple repairs indicate that the felt may no longer be watertight.
- Structural Damage: If water has damaged the roof deck or insulation, a full replacement is necessary.
Conclusion
Felt roof repair is an essential part of maintaining your home or building's structural integrity. Whether you’re patching a small tear or considering a full roof replacement, addressing felt roof issues promptly can save you money and prevent further damage. For the best results, consider hiring professional roofers who can provide high-quality repairs, long-lasting solutions, and warranties for peace of mind.
By following regular maintenance routines and conducting inspections after extreme weather, you can ensure your felt roof remains durable, watertight, and in excellent condition for years to come.