GRP, Rubber, or Felt - Which roofing option is the best for me?

If you aren`t sure of the differences, read this.

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), rubber, and felt roofing are commonly used for flat or low-sloping roofs. Let's compare GRP roofing with rubber and felt roofing and look at their advantages and disadvantages.

GRP roofing has several advantages. It's highly durable and can last for up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance. It's weather-resistant, waterproof and can withstand heavy rain, snow, and hail. GRP roofing also requires minimal maintenance, making it cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, it can be finished in a variety of colours and styles, giving it an attractive appearance.

However, there are some disadvantages to GRP roofing. The installation process requires specialised skills and equipment, making it more expensive than other options. Also, GRP roofing can develop cracks over time due to the expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. Lastly, it provides limited thermal insulation compared to other roofing options, making it less energy efficient.

Rubber roofing is flexible and can adapt to the shape of the roof, making it ideal for roofs with unusual shapes. It's easy to install without the need for specialised equipment or skills, and provides good thermal insulation, which can help reduce energy costs.

But rubber roofing also has some disadvantages. It has a shorter lifespan than GRP roofing, typically lasting between 10-15 years. It's vulnerable to damage from UV rays, which can cause the rubber to crack or deteriorate over time. Rubber roofing can also be punctured by sharp objects, causing leaks, and we would still recommend that you get this installed by a qualified professional.

Felt roofing is cost-effective and easy to install without specialised equipment or skills. It provides good thermal insulation, which can help reduce energy costs. This would typically be used on sheds and small garages and not often found on modern buildings these days.

However, felt roofing has some drawbacks. It has a shorter lifespan compared to GRP roofing and rubber roofing, typically lasting between 5-10 years. It's vulnerable to damage from extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and hail. Also, felt roofing requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and prevent leaks.

All types of roofing can be aesthetically pleasing when fitted correctly. GRP is the slightly higher-priced option but comes with high guarantees overall. If you need further information or advice to help you make your choice, you can contact the team on 01803 866599.