Introduction: Felt roofing, or bitumen or built-up roofing, is a popular choice for residential and commercial properties due to its affordability, durability, and ease of installation. However, its performance can vary depending on the climate in which it is installed. In this blog post, we’ll explore how felt roofing performs in different climates and provide insights from Sittingbourne Roofing Services to help you make informed decisions about your roofing needs.
Understanding Felt Roofing
Felt roofing consists of multiple bitumen-soaked felt or fibreglass matting bonded with hot asphalt or cold-applied adhesive. This creates a waterproof membrane that protects against water infiltration and weathering. Felt roofing systems are typically finished with a layer of gravel or mineral granules to enhance durability and UV resistance.
Performance in Warm Climates
In warm climates with high temperatures and intense sunlight, roofing may experience accelerated ageing and deterioration due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation. Over time, the heat can cause the bitumen to soften and degrade, leading to cracking, blistering, and premature failure of the roofing membrane. To mitigate these issues, choosing high-quality felt roofing materials with enhanced UV resistance is essential, as well as considering additional protective coatings or reflective surfacing to reduce heat absorption and extend the roof’s lifespan.
Performance in Cold Climates
In cold climates with freezing temperatures and snowfall, felt roofing may be susceptible to damage from freeze-thaw cycles and ice dam formation. Water can seep into cracks and crevices in the roofing membrane, freeze, and expand, causing the material to crack and degrade over time. Proper insulation and ventilation are crucial for preventing ice dams and maintaining consistent temperatures on the roof surface. Additionally, selecting a thicker or reinforced felt roofing membrane can provide added protection against thermal expansion and contraction in cold climates.
Performance in Wet Climates
In wet climates with frequent rainfall and high humidity, felt roofing may be prone to water infiltration and moisture buildup if not properly installed and maintained. Over time, moisture can penetrate the roofing membrane, leading to mould, mildew, and rot. It’s essential to ensure adequate drainage and waterproofing measures, such as proper flashing, sealants, and gutter systems, to prevent water from pooling or accumulating on the roof surface.
Consult with Sittingbourne Roofing Services
When considering felt roofing for your property, it’s essential to consult with experienced professionals like Sittingbourne Roofing Services, who understand the unique challenges and considerations of different climates. Our team can assess your specific climate conditions, recommend appropriate roofing materials and techniques, and ensure that your felt roofing system is installed correctly to withstand the elements and provide lasting protection for your property.
Conclusion: Felt roofing can perform well in various climates, but its performance may vary depending on temperature, sunlight exposure, and precipitation. By understanding the challenges and considerations associated with different climates, homeowners and property managers can make informed decisions about their roofing needs and ensure that their felt roofing system provides reliable protection and durability for years.
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