Felt Roofing in Surrey

Looking for reliable felt roofing in Surrey? Infinite Roofing provides professional felt roof installations, repairs and replacements for residential and commercial properties throughout Epsom and the surrounding areas.

Modern felt roofing offers a durable and practical waterproofing solution for flat and low-pitched roofs. It is particularly popular for garages, extensions, porches, outbuildings and certain commercial buildings where dependable protection against the British weather is essential.

Whether your existing felt roof has started leaking, the waterproof covering has deteriorated or you are planning a new flat roof installation, we can assess your requirements and recommend a suitable roofing solution.

Based in Epsom, Infinite Roofing covers Leatherhead, Cheam, Banstead, Ewell, Tadworth, Kingswood, Ashtead and neighbouring parts of Surrey.

From minor roofing defects to complete felt roof replacement projects, our aim is to provide quality workmanship, suitable materials and long-lasting weather protection.

Contact Infinite Roofing today to discuss your felt roofing requirements and request a free, no-obligation quotation.

Professional Felt Roofing Services

Felt roofing has been used on British properties for generations, although modern systems are considerably more advanced than many traditional coverings.

Contemporary reinforced bitumen membranes are designed to provide flexibility, strength and weather resistance when correctly specified and installed.

A modern felt roof usually consists of multiple waterproofing layers that work together to protect the structure beneath.

We provide felt roofing services for a variety of property types, including:

• New felt roof installations
• Felt roof replacements
• Leaking felt roof repairs
• Garage felt roofing
• Extension roofing
• Porch and canopy roofs
• Flat roof refurbishment
• Roof edge and flashing repairs
• Felt roofing maintenance
• Commercial felt roofing

Every roof has different requirements. Factors such as roof size, construction, drainage, insulation and accessibility all influence the most appropriate installation or repair method.

Our wider roofing services also cover pitched roofs, specialist waterproofing systems and general roof maintenance throughout Surrey.

What Is Felt Roofing?

Felt roofing is a waterproofing system commonly used on flat and low-pitched roofs.

Traditional roofing felt was often produced using bitumen-based materials reinforced with organic fibres. Modern systems typically use reinforced bituminous membranes containing polyester, glass fibre or other reinforcement materials.

Many contemporary membranes incorporate modified bitumen, designed to improve flexibility and performance under varying temperatures.

These products are frequently installed as part of a multi-layer roofing system.

The precise specification depends on the building and the manufacturer’s requirements, but a typical built-up felt roof may incorporate an underlay and a mineral-finished cap sheet, sometimes with additional layers.

The outer covering is designed to resist weather exposure, while the overall system provides waterproofing protection.

Why is felt roofing still popular?

Despite the development of alternative flat roofing materials, felt remains a practical choice for many properties.

Its advantages can include:

• Reliable waterproofing when properly installed
• Suitability for a wide range of roof sizes
• Compatibility with different roof constructions
• Established installation methods
• Options for repairs and refurbishment
• A range of modern reinforced membranes
• Practical solutions for garages and extensions

The quality of the installation is particularly important.

Even high-quality waterproofing materials can fail prematurely if drainage, roof edges, joints or surrounding flashing details are incorrectly constructed.

New Felt Roof Installations

A correctly designed felt roofing system can provide dependable protection for many years.

Whether you are building a new garage, adding an extension or replacing an existing covering, the installation should take account of the complete roof structure rather than focusing solely on the waterproof membrane.

Important considerations include the condition of the roof deck, appropriate insulation, drainage falls, moisture control and connections with adjoining walls.

The chosen roofing system must also be suitable for the building’s intended use.

What does a felt roof installation involve?

A typical project may involve:

1. Assessing the roof structure and installation requirements.
2. Checking the condition and suitability of the roof deck.
3. Establishing appropriate drainage falls.
4. Specifying insulation and moisture-control components where required.
5. Installing compatible waterproofing layers.
6. Completing roof edges, upstands and flashing details.
7. Inspecting the completed waterproofing system.

The installation sequence varies according to the manufacturer’s specification and the particular roofing system.

We assess each property individually to determine an appropriate solution based on its construction and requirements.

Felt Roof Repairs in Surrey

A damaged felt roof does not always need replacing.

Many problems begin as isolated defects, such as a damaged seam, localised split or deterioration around a drainage outlet.

Where the surrounding roofing materials remain in satisfactory condition, targeted repairs may restore the roof’s weather resistance.

However, identifying the source of a leak can be more complicated than it initially appears.

Water entering a flat roof can travel beneath the waterproof covering before appearing inside the building.

This means an internal damp patch may not be directly below the original defect.

Common felt roofing problems

We can investigate issues involving:

• Cracked or split felt membranes
• Failed seams and joints
• Damaged roof edges
• Blistering and raised sections
• Leaks around rooflights
• Defective wall junctions
• Damaged flashing
• Blocked drainage outlets
• Water penetration around roof penetrations
• Deteriorated waterproofing materials

The suitability of a repair depends on the existing system and the extent of deterioration.

A localised defect may be repairable using compatible materials, while widespread failure can make complete replacement more economical.

For more extensive roofing problems, our roof repair services cover a range of defects affecting residential and commercial roofs.

Felt Roof Replacement

Even a properly installed felt roof will eventually reach the end of its useful service life.

Over time, exposure to sunlight, temperature changes, moisture and general weathering can affect the performance of waterproofing materials.

Older coverings may become brittle, develop cracks or suffer repeated failures around joints and roof edges.

Previous repairs can sometimes extend the life of a roof, but ongoing patching may become poor value when deterioration is widespread.

Signs your felt roof may need replacing

Warning signs can include:

• Multiple leaks across different areas
• Extensive cracking or splitting
• Repeated failure of previous repairs
• Widespread membrane deterioration
• Persistent water penetration
• Damaged or saturated underlying materials
• Significant problems with the roof deck

A replacement project provides an opportunity to assess the complete roofing system.

Depending on the existing construction, it may also be appropriate to improve insulation, drainage or other elements of the roof.

We aim to establish whether repair remains practical before recommending replacement.

Garage Felt Roofing

Garages are among the most common buildings fitted with felt roofing systems.

Many detached and attached garages have flat or low-pitched roofs that require effective waterproofing without the construction of a traditional pitched covering.

Older garage roofs may have been covered using basic felt materials that have gradually deteriorated.

Typical warning signs include water staining, damaged roofing felt, failed seams or leaks around roof edges.

Replacing an ageing garage roof covering can help protect vehicles, tools, stored possessions and the structure itself.

However, the supporting roof deck must also be assessed.

Installing new waterproofing over defective or moisture-damaged materials may simply conceal an existing problem.

We provide garage felt roof repairs and replacements, with recommendations based on the condition of the roof and the intended use of the building.

Felt Roofing for Extensions and Porches

Flat-roofed extensions are common throughout Surrey, particularly on properties that have been extended or modernised over time.

Felt roofing can provide an effective waterproofing solution for suitable extension roofs.

However, the detailing around the connection between the extension and the existing property is especially important.

These junctions may involve walls, rooflights, gutters, parapets and transitions between different roof coverings.

Areas requiring particular attention

Common vulnerable points include:

• Roof-to-wall junctions
• Upstands and flashing
• Rooflight surrounds
• Drainage outlets
• External corners
• Roof edges
• Connections with pitched roofs

A defect in one of these areas can allow rainwater to enter even when the main felt covering remains in good condition.

We consider the complete roof arrangement when assessing repairs or replacement work.

Modern Torch-On Felt Roofing

Some modern reinforced bitumen roofing systems are installed using controlled heat to bond the waterproofing membrane to compatible substrates or underlying layers.

These are commonly known as torch-on felt roofing systems.

When properly specified and installed by competent professionals, these systems can provide effective waterproofing for suitable flat roofs.

However, the use of gas torches introduces significant fire risks, particularly near timber, insulation, combustible materials and concealed cavities.

Torch-on methods are not appropriate for every roof or every part of a roofing project.

Alternative installation methods, including self-adhesive and cold-applied systems, may be necessary depending on the risks and manufacturer’s requirements.

The method of installation should be selected following an appropriate assessment of the building, roof construction and associated hazards.

Homeowners should never attempt torch-on roofing as an untrained DIY project.

Professional installation and safe working arrangements are essential.

How Long Does a Felt Roof Last?

The lifespan of a felt roof depends on several factors, including the materials used, installation quality, roof design, weather exposure and maintenance.

Modern reinforced bitumen roofing systems can provide decades of service when correctly specified, installed and maintained.

However, there is no single lifespan that applies to every felt roofing product.

A basic covering on an older garage may perform very differently from a modern multi-layer system installed to a manufacturer’s specification.

Factors influencing durability include:

• Membrane quality and reinforcement
• Number and specification of waterproofing layers
• Quality of installation
• Roof drainage
• Exposure to standing water
• Roof-edge detailing
• Foot traffic and physical damage
• Frequency of maintenance

Regular inspections can help identify developing defects before they compromise larger areas of the roof.

Where an existing covering is approaching the end of its useful life, an assessment can establish whether repairs remain appropriate.

Felt Roofing Versus Other Flat Roofing Materials

Felt is one of several materials available for flat roofing.

Other systems include EPDM rubber, GRP fibreglass and specialist single-ply membranes.

Each offers particular characteristics and installation requirements.

Felt roofing

Modern reinforced bitumen membranes provide an established waterproofing solution with options for multi-layer construction and localised repairs.

EPDM rubber roofing

EPDM is a flexible synthetic rubber membrane commonly used on domestic flat roofs.

It can be suitable for extensions and garages, depending on the roof design and installation requirements.

GRP fibreglass roofing

GRP creates a rigid, reinforced waterproof covering and is used for various flat roofing applications.

Its suitability depends on the substrate, roof construction and installation conditions.

Single-ply roofing

Single-ply systems use specialist waterproofing membranes, often selected for their flexibility, detailing characteristics and suitability for particular projects.

Infinite Roofing also provides specialist Alwitra Evalon roofing systems for suitable flat roof applications.

No single material is automatically the best option for every building.

We recommend considering the roof’s construction, performance requirements, budget and long-term maintenance before selecting a system.

How Much Does Felt Roofing Cost in Surrey?

The cost of felt roofing varies according to the size and complexity of the roof, the materials required and the condition of the existing structure.

A straightforward garage roof replacement will have different requirements from a larger extension or commercial roofing project.

Factors affecting the quotation include:

• Roof dimensions
• Type of felt system
• Existing waterproofing condition
• Roof deck repairs
• Insulation requirements
• Drainage alterations
• Flashing and edge details
• Access and scaffolding
• Waste removal
• Installation complexity

A lower initial quotation does not always represent better long-term value.

The specification of the waterproofing system, quality of materials and suitability of the underlying construction should all be considered.

We provide quotations based on the requirements of the individual property rather than relying on generic estimates.

Felt Roofing Maintenance

Routine maintenance can help extend the life of a felt roofing system.

Although modern membranes are designed to withstand normal weather exposure, drainage outlets, roof edges and junctions still require periodic attention.

Debris accumulation can restrict rainwater flow, while damaged seams or flashing may allow moisture to penetrate.

A practical maintenance approach includes:

• Keeping drainage outlets clear
• Monitoring standing water
• Checking roof edges and flashing
• Looking for membrane damage
• Investigating internal dampness
• Avoiding unnecessary foot traffic
• Arranging inspections following significant storm damage

Flat roofs should not be accessed without appropriate safety arrangements.

Roof coverings can conceal fragile surfaces, rooflights and structural defects.

Where maintenance requires roof access, competent professionals should undertake the work using suitable equipment.

Felt Roofing Across Surrey

Infinite Roofing is based in Epsom and provides roofing services across the surrounding parts of Surrey.

Our coverage includes:

• Epsom
• Leatherhead
• Cheam
• Banstead
• Ewell
• West Ewell
• Tadworth
• Kingswood
• Ashtead

We work with homeowners, landlords and commercial clients requiring felt roof repairs, replacement coverings and new waterproofing installations.

If your property is outside these locations, contact us with your postcode to confirm coverage.

Why Choose Infinite Roofing?

Choosing the right roofing contractor is important when installing or repairing a felt roof.

The performance of the completed roof depends on more than the waterproof membrane itself.

Appropriate drainage, reliable junction details, compatible materials and correct installation all contribute to long-term protection.

Infinite Roofing offers extensive roofing experience across traditional and modern roofing systems.

Our approach focuses on understanding the requirements of each property, assessing the existing construction and recommending suitable repairs or replacement options.

Where a reliable repair is possible, we aim to avoid unnecessary replacement work.

Where an ageing system has deteriorated beyond economical repair, we can explain the available alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felt Roofing

Can a leaking felt roof be repaired?

Yes, many felt roofs can be repaired if the damage is localised and the surrounding waterproofing remains in good condition. Extensive deterioration may make replacement more appropriate.

Is felt roofing suitable for a garage?

Yes. Modern reinforced bitumen felt systems are commonly used on flat and low-pitched garage roofs, provided the structure and drainage are suitable.

Is modern roofing felt better than traditional felt?

Modern reinforced bitumen membranes generally offer improved material characteristics compared with many older basic felt coverings. Performance still depends on the selected system and installation quality.

Can new felt be installed over an existing roof?

Sometimes, but only following an assessment of the existing roof covering, deck, moisture condition and compatibility. Installing new felt over defective materials may conceal problems.

Does a felt roof need maintenance?

Yes. Regular checks of drainage, roof edges and waterproofing details can help identify problems before they become more serious.

Do you provide felt roof replacement in Surrey?

Infinite Roofing provides roofing repairs and replacement services across Epsom and surrounding Surrey locations. Contact us to discuss your felt roof and arrange a quotation.

Request a Felt Roofing Quote in Surrey

Whether you need a new felt roof for a garage, repairs to an existing covering or a complete flat roof replacement, Infinite Roofing can help you assess the available options.

We provide roofing services throughout Epsom, Leatherhead, Cheam, Banstead and neighbouring parts of Surrey.

Contact Infinite Roofing today to discuss your felt roofing project and request a free, no-obligation quotation.

Call 01737 210204 or 07926 892502, or email info@infiniteroofing.co.uk.