If you’re thinking about felt roofing for your home or business but want to know how long it will last and what maintenance is required, this guide is for you!
We’ll cover everything from what felt roofing is made of and how waterproof it is, to whether a 30-year lifespan– possibly even longer– can be expected.
Read on to discover why this versatile roof covering could provide both security and value over the decades.
How Long Does Felt Roofing Last? Expected Lifespan!
Factors that can affect how long felt roofing lasts include:
- If it’s made from organic materials or synthetics
- How well it was put on in the first place
- The shape of the roof (flat roofs may not last as long)
- What the weather is usually like
- Maintenance
Typically, old-style organic felt roofs endure 20 to 30 years. But nowadays, synthetic felts last up to twice as long– 50 years.
Fitting plays a big part! If something is well made it can last for years longer; but if it’s badly fitted you might have to replace it sooner than you think.
Sloping roofs also tend to last longer because they don’t collect rainwater (or snow) in the way flat roofs do.
And if there are lots of storms or rapid changes in temperature, be prepared for some wear and tear if it’s felted rather than tiled!
When Should You Replace Your Felt Roofing?
If you take good care of your felt roof, it could last for three decades. However, there are various signs that you may need to repair or replace it:
- There are air bubbles.
- You can see cracks.
- Moss or mildew is growing on it.
- Water is pooling.
Small fractures etc., can be fixed but if there is significant damage, then the entire thing might have to be redone. Moss and mildew mean that there is probably water damage– which could get a lot worse if not sorted out.
In the same way, having lots of water sitting on it puts stress on the structure and this may lead to water getting into your home through cracks: If either of these apply, it’s best to get someone qualified round to take a look ASAP.
Although repairs can usually be done whenever necessary, sometimes (especially after long spells of bad weather) the only safe/sensible option is to start from scratch again– for both safety reasons and because it will last longer.
How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Felt Roof?
To ensure longevity of your felt roof, proper maintenance is key. Follow these tips to keep your felt roof in good condition for as many years as possible:
- Inspect the roof twice annually (in spring and autumn) for damage like tears, cracks or bubbles.
- Make sure the surface is clear of leaves, branches or anything else that could cause problems– do this regularly.
- If there are any loose bits at the edges or seams, flap them down again so they don’t get caught by the wind and cause further harm.
- Small holes or tears can be mended with roofing cement: apply it using a trowel and smooth over with an old credit card.
- Don’t walk more than necessary on the felt; because repeated footfall can weaken its structure.
Older felt roofs may benefit from being coated with a reflective paint-like substance called elastomeric coating which provides protection against sun and severe weather; this should be done every five years by professionals who will clean the roof first then apply two coats of the material.
When it needs replacing, consider upgrading to a newer type of high performance felt rather than traditional materials for example based on natural products like bitumen (which is used to make asphalt road surfaces).
Should You Repair Your Felt Roofing Instead of Replacing It?
Deciding between repairing or replacing felt roofing is often difficult. Although fixing it might appear to be the faster and cheaper choice now, a replacement could last longer.
Age, how badly it is damaged and how often repairs are needed should also play a part in your decision– and getting advice from a reputable roofer would be wise.
They will not only be able to say how long does felt roofing last for but also offer guidance on what is best for your roof’s overall health and lifespan.
The Bottom Line
To sum it up: If you’re a homeowner, it’s essential to know how long does felt roofing last and what you can do to make it live longer.
Most felt roofs need replacing every 20-30 years; but if your roof is flat with a shed extension, budget for work every 10-15 years.
However, a well-installed and maintained felt may last even longer. Follow our tips to keep yours looking good!
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