Felt roofing has been a trusted flat roofing solution in the UK for decades. Known for its cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and waterproofing ability, it remains a popular choice for garages, extensions, and outbuildings. But how well does felt roofing really perform under the often unpredictable and demanding British weather? At LJ Roofing Haydon Wick, we install and maintain high-quality felt roofing systems throughout Haydon Wick, Wiltshire—ensuring homes and businesses stay protected in all seasons.
What Is Felt Roofing?
Felt roofing typically consists of bitumen-saturated sheets reinforced with fibreglass or polyester. These are applied in layers using heat or self-adhesive techniques to create a watertight membrane over flat or low-pitch surfaces.
It’s a practical solution that delivers reliable weather protection, especially when installed correctly by experienced professionals.
British Weather: The Real Test for Roofing
The UK experiences a wide range of weather conditions, often in quick succession. From freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall to UV exposure and wind-driven storms, these elements place a constant strain on any roofing material.
In Wiltshire and across the South West, homeowners require roofing systems that can withstand:
- Prolonged periods of rain and damp
- Freeze-thaw cycles in winter
- Occasional snow and frost
- Intense summer sun, even if only for brief spells
- Sudden changes in temperature and high winds
Felt roofing has proven itself capable of handling these challenges when properly installed and maintained.
How Felt Roofing Handles British Conditions
1. Waterproofing in Heavy Rain
Modern felt roofing materials are designed to create a seamless, water-resistant layer. When fitted with the correct fall (slope) and effective drainage, felt roofs perform well in extended periods of rain.
Benefits include:
- Tight waterproof seal
- Multi-layer protection
- Edge and upstand detailing to prevent water ingress
2. Resistance to Frost and Cold Weather
Felt roofing is flexible enough to cope with natural expansion and contraction caused by temperature shifts. This helps reduce the risk of cracking, blistering, or splitting during freeze-thaw cycles.
Cold-weather resilience:
- Reinforced layers reduce brittleness
- Good adhesion minimises wind uplift
- Proper installation helps avoid water pooling that can freeze
3. UV and Heat Resistance
Although the UK is not known for extreme heat, UV rays can still degrade roofing materials over time. High-quality felt roofs now include protective mineral finishes that help reflect sunlight and slow down UV damage.
UV resistance features:
- Mineral surfaces reduce thermal absorption
- Coatings help prevent material shrinkage
- Prolongs roof lifespan in sunny periods
4. Wind Performance
Flat roofs are more exposed to wind uplift than pitched systems, especially around edges and parapets. Proper installation techniques—including secure bonding and edge trims—ensure felt roofs stay intact during gusty conditions.
Windproofing benefits:
- Fully bonded layers resist peeling
- Torch-on application improves adhesion
- Heavy-duty materials stand up to gales and storms
Maintenance Tips to Maximise Lifespan
To ensure your felt roof continues to perform under British weather, regular inspection and maintenance are essential.
Recommended actions:
- Clear debris from the roof and gutters after storms
- Check for ponding or soft spots after heavy rainfall
- Reseal joints or flashings as needed
- Schedule annual inspections to catch early signs of wear
At LJ Roofing Haydon Wick, we provide professional maintenance services across Haydon Wick, Wiltshire to keep felt roofs performing at their best year-round.
Conclusion
Felt roofing remains a dependable choice for British homes, offering robust protection against rain, frost, sun, and wind when professionally installed and maintained. At LJ Roofing Haydon Wick, we ensure every felt roofing system we work on is designed to withstand the realities of the UK climate—providing long-term value and peace of mind to property owners in Haydon Wick, Wiltshire.
Call us on: 01793 569 598
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