Felt Roofing

At ACSAP Roofing Services, we specialise in felt roofing, providing durable, cost-effective solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Felt roofing is a popular choice for flat roofs, thanks to its excellent waterproofing, weather resistance, and longevity. Using high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, we install and maintain torch-on felt roofs and traditional felt systems, ensuring robust protection against the elements. Perfect for garages, extensions, as well as large commercial refurbishments, our felt roofing solutions offer reliability and affordability. Whether you need new felt roof installation, repairs, or maintenance, trust ACSAP for professional, tailored services that keep your property safe and secure.

FAQ's

What is torch-on felt roofing?

Torch-on felt roofing – also known as torch-on felting – is a flat or low-pitch roofing system applied using a gas torch to heat and bond layers of bitumen felt directly to the roof deck. It creates a seamless, waterproof membrane suitable for garages, extensions, commercial buildings and industrial structures. ACSAP Ltd has installed torch-on felt roofing systems across domestic, commercial and industrial properties throughout the Midlands since 1973, including projects for Banbury Railway Station and King’s Cross Station in London.

A professionally installed torch-on felt roof typically lasts between 20 and 25 years depending on the specification, number of layers, quality of materials used, and how well it is maintained. Single-layer systems at the lower specification end tend to last closer to 15 years. Multi-layer systems using high-performance modified bitumen felts, installed by an accredited contractor such as an NFRC member, can last significantly longer. Regular maintenance including annual inspections, clearing of outlets and gutters, and prompt repair of minor damage extends the life of any felt roof considerably and ACSAP expects such systems to last in excess of 30 years.

A felt roof that has isolated blistering, minor cracking or a single area of water ingress may only need a repair. A roof that is showing widespread cracking, multiple blisters, ponding water across large areas, or is over 20 years old is more likely to require full replacement. The most reliable way to assess this is a professional roof survey. ACSAP offers roof inspections across the Midlands and can advise whether repair or replacement is the more cost-effective option for your specific roof.

Yes. Torch-on felt roofing is one of the most widely used flat roofing systems on commercial and industrial buildings across the UK. It is suitable for large flat roof areas, roofs with complex detailing, and buildings that require a durable, low-maintenance waterproofing solution. ACSAP has installed torch-on felt systems on commercial and industrial properties, including hospitals and railway infrastructure. For larger commercial projects, we also offer single ply membrane systems as an alternative, which may carry longer manufacturer warranties.

Yes – in most cases. Manufacturer warranties on roofing systems including felt products are typically only valid when the system is installed by an approved or accredited contractor. If a felt roof is installed by an unaccredited contractor and subsequently fails, the manufacturer’s warranty will not cover the cost of repair or replacement. ACSAP Ltd holds manufacturer approvals for the systems we install, meaning our work qualifies for the full manufacturer warranty available on each product.

Single-layer felt systems use one layer of bitumen felt bonded to the roof deck. They are cheaper to install but offer less protection and a shorter lifespan (Naturally it is designated a shorter warranty also). Multi-layer systems use two or more layers, typically with a base layer, intermediate layer and a mineral-surfaced cap sheet. Multi-layer systems provide significantly better waterproofing performance, greater resistance to UV degradation and mechanical damage, and a longer service life. For commercial and industrial applications ACSAP always recommends a multi-layer specification.

Felt roof replacement costs vary depending on the size of the roof, the specification chosen, access requirements and whether any structural repairs are needed to the deck. As a general guide, a domestic garage or small extension flat roof typically starts from around £1,200 for a standard replacement. Larger commercial or industrial roofs are priced on a project-by-project basis. ACSAP provides detailed written quotations covering all aspects of the work. Contact us on 024 76340308 for a survey and quotation.

Yes, unless the surface or substrate have seriously deteriorated, overlaying the existing with a new 3-layer system is approved by manufacturers and does not affect warranties. Less cost, less disruption.

It is also worth noting that felt is the old name due to the old product being felt “enveloped” with bitumen whereas in the present we use a polyester or fibreglass carrier enveloped in modified bitumen.

Historically poor workmanship and inferior materials. Modern “felts” have fibreglass or polyester base materials which offer superior strength and resilience encapsulation by using modified bitumen (SBS or APP) which have greater longevity and elasticity.  

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Got a roofing issue? Don’t delay – contact us today for expert help! Our skilled team is ready to address your roofing concerns with professionalism and care. Let’s resolve your problem efficiently and deliver a solution that lasts.