fibreglass flat roofs

Fibreglass Flat Roofs

In the past, flat roofs were associated with leaks – if you had a flat roof, you had to be prepared to carry out regular maintenance, and probably pay out for a full replacement every 10 years or so. But Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) – also known has fibreglass – has changed all that. Here’s how.

1. GRP is extremely durable.

 The typical life span of a GRP roof is in excess of 50 years – up to five times longer than felt roofs.

2. GRP is completely waterproof. 

The material of choice for most boats and yachts, GRP can withstand sustained exposure to huge amounts of water. And because a fibreglass roof is formed from one single continuous membrane, it’s fully sealed – unlike felt or rubber roofs, there aren’t any seams or joints for water to penetrate.

3. GRP roofs are wind resistant

Once you patch a felt roof, the chances are that eventually the wind will get beneath the patch and make the hole bigger. In contrast, GRP roofs are fully bonded to the surface of the decking boards, so they’re very resistant to wind uplift.

4. It requires minimal maintenance. 

Felt roofs allow condensation to build up, which inevitably leads to mould and rot. As such, a felt roof will often require patching. In contrast, a fibreglass roof requires very little looking after – just periodic washing with warm water and a soft brush to keep it looking like new.

5. Quick, easy and safe to install. 

A single domestic garage can be re-roofed with GRP in a day by two people; and because GRP roofs are cold laid, they don’t require any form of heat treatment meaning minimal safety risks during installation.

6. Fibreglass is highly adaptable

As a liquid resin, fibreglass can be moulded to any area, so it can be used to create any shape of roof, or accommodate obstacles such as roof lights, balconies or walkways. It’s also available in a wide range of colours and textures, including non-slip.

GRP has revolutionised flat roofs. No longer something to be reviled, flat roofs can now be both durable and attractive.

To find out more about how a fibreglass roof can benefit your building, please contact us.