Flat Roof Problems in Winter

Our UK weather is notorious for creating issues with our flat roofs. Here at Composite Roof Supplies, we want to offer as much help to you as possible. So we strongly advise a pre-winter inspection, looking for signs of a potential failure before the bad weather sets in.

If you have a fibreglass roof, you may experience Flat Roof Problems in Winter months. This can be a frustrating and costly problem to deal with, but there are steps you can take to prevent and solve it. By performing pre-winter checks and taking remedial action, you can save yourself a lot of money and hassle in the long run. Read on to learn more about common flat roof problems in the winter and how to solve them.

What to look for during your 3-Point inspection: Flat Roof Problems in Winter

1. Flat Roof Problems Like Cracks:

Random sunny days create expansion and slight movement which is perfectly fine under normal circumstances with any Fibreglass Flat Roof.

Providing the roofer has built in some allowance for such movement with 10-20mm gaps to perimeter edges & the deck boards were fitted with a 3mm gap on the joints you shouldn’t have any problems.

Unfortunately, cracks may be visible in some GRP Roof installations due to poor preparation when fitting the deck boards.

Quick Remedial action
Pu Based products like Tekcryl’s coat System is a solution that will cover almost any existing surface, a quick fix, and can be used in damp conditions so perfect if you missed that pre-winter inspection. This product is guaranteed for 5 years.

GRP Repairs are simple and effective, we advise inspecting the whole roof to see if an expansion joint using the E280 trim should be fitted, if in doubt consult a professional GRP Roofing Company. For small repairs grind out the affected area back to the board then apply some woven bandage with Roofing Resin, blend the new with the old the best you can applying slightly more resin than required prior to sanding back smooth before you apply the Roofing Topcoat. This will achieve a much nicer finish.

2. GRP Pin Holes: Flat Roof Problems in Winter

Checking for Pin Holes in GRP roofs! these tiny holes are common if the installer had little or no experience, the misconception is there wasnt enough Topcoat applied when in actual fact it’s down to a lack of Resin consolidation during the fibreglassing process. All GRP Roofs should be inspected with a Strip light before any Topcoat is applied, and any pin holes need to be reworked with Resin brushed on the laminate.

Remedial action
If you spot pin holes after the roof is completed.
Sand the area heavily! ideally back to the clear Resin and re-apply some GRP Roofing Resin ensuring all pin holes are filled, you may need to apply the 2nd coat. Before any NEW topcoat is applied ensure a good wipe down with acetone is done to create a surface for the Topcoat to successfully bond to. Ensure any new Topcoat overlapping the old Topcoat has a keyed surface.

3. Flashing Checks: Flat Roof Problems in Winter

Water entering your property can be disastrous, so prevention is better than cure here. A quick walk around the perimeter edges is advisable to prevent any further flat roof problems in winter, you’re looking for signs of dry cracking in the sealant, sufficient overlaps on joints, and no visible cracks in the lead role.

Check flashings on perimeter edges or capped parapets, Some Lead and PU sealants perish over time with exposure to UV.

Remedial action
Peel out and replace with fresh sealant. Replace any split lengths of the Lead roll.
This simple guide to maintaining your flat roof will eliminate to the need for expensive repair work.
For further technical support, we can be contacted via email or Telephone

GRP roofing in the winter:

Q: Can I install GRP roofing in the winter?

A: Yes, it is possible to install GRP roofing in the winter. However, there are some additional considerations you will need to take into account, such as:

• Temperature: The ideal temperature range for applying GRP roofing is between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). If the temperatures are below 10°C (50°F), the resin will cure too slowly and may not bond properly to the GRP sheets.

• Water: The resin used in GRP roofing is water-based, so it is important to ensure that the roof surface is dry and free of moisture before applying the resin. If there is any moisture present, it can cause the resin to cure improperly and may lead to cracking or other damage.

• Snow and ice: If there is snow or ice on the roof, it will need to be removed before you can start the installation process. Snow and ice can damage the GRP sheets and make it difficult to work with the resin.

Q: What are the benefits of installing GRP roofing in the winter?

A: There are a few benefits to installing GRP roofing in the winter, such as:

• Lower prices: Contractors often charge lower prices for roofing work in the winter when demand is lower.

• Shorter wait times: You are less likely to face long wait times for materials and contractors when installing GRP roofing in the winter.

• Less crowded worksites: Worksites are less crowded in the winter, which can make it easier to get around and work efficiently.

Q: What are the drawbacks of installing GRP roofing in the winter?

A: There are also a few drawbacks to installing GRP roofing in the winter, such as:

• Slower curing process: The resin will cure more slowly in colder temperatures, which can extend the installation time.

• Increased risk of damage: The GRP sheets and resin are more susceptible to damage from moisture and temperature fluctuations in the winter.

• Potential for delays due to weather: If there is a sudden drop in temperature or heavy snowfall, it may be necessary to postpone the installation.

Overall, the decision of whether or not to install GRP roofing in the winter is a personal one. It is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully before making a decision. If you are considering installing GRP roofing in the winter, make sure to choose a contractor with experience working in cold weather conditions.

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