Roof felt is a key component of many roofing systems in the UK, offering both protection and performance. Whether you’re planning a new roof installation or need repairs to an existing structure, understanding roof felt and its role can help you make informed decisions about your property.
At Linton Roofing Repairs, we regularly work with roof felt on properties throughout Linton, Cambridgeshire, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Roof Felt?
Roof felt, often referred to as roofing underlay or bitumen felt, is a protective membrane installed beneath tiles or other roofing materials. It provides a secondary layer of defence against water ingress and helps ensure your roof remains weatherproof.
Key Characteristics:
- Made from bitumen-saturated sheets or synthetic materials
- Typically layered in strips and overlapped to shed water
- Available in different grades and weights for varying roof types
The Purpose of Roof Felt
Why Is Roof Felt Important?
Roof felt plays a vital role in modern roofing systems, particularly in the UK’s damp climate.
Its main functions include:
- Waterproofing – Acts as a barrier against rain, snow, and moisture
- Protection During Installation – Shields the structure while tiles or slates are being laid
- Wind Uplift Resistance – Helps reduce the impact of strong winds beneath the outer roof covering
- Condensation Control – Certain modern felts offer breathability to manage moisture build-up
Types of Roof Felt
Different projects may require different types of felt depending on the structure, pitch, and level of exposure.
Common varieties include:
1. Traditional Bitumen Felt
- Typically used on older roofs
- Requires good ventilation to prevent condensation
2. Breathable Membranes
- Allow moisture to escape from the loft space
- Ideal for homes where condensation is a concern
3. Torch-On Felt
- Applied using heat to melt the layers together
- Most commonly used for flat roofs and sheds
When Should Roof Felt Be Replaced?
Over time, roof felt can degrade due to age, weather exposure, or installation faults.
Signs that your roof felt may need replacing:
- Damp patches in the loft or ceiling
- Tiles appearing loose or lifted
- Visible tears or shrinkage in the felt
- Evidence of water ingress even when tiles are intact
If you’re experiencing any of these issues in Linton, Cambridgeshire, Linton Roofing Repairs can provide a full inspection and recommend the best course of action.
Can You Install New Felt Without Replacing the Roof?
In some cases, yes. If the outer covering (tiles, slates, etc.) is in good condition and can be carefully removed, the felt underneath can be replaced. However, this is often labour-intensive and is typically done during re-roofing or major repair work.
Choosing the Right Roof Felt
Selecting the appropriate type of roof felt is essential to ensuring long-term performance and compliance with current building regulations.
Considerations include:
- Roof pitch
- Ventilation requirements
- Exposure to wind and rain
- Existing roofing materials
At Linton Roofing Repairs, we help homeowners in Linton make the right choice for their specific roof and budget.
Professional Installation Matters
Roof felt must be installed correctly to function properly. Poorly fitted felt can lead to trapped moisture, sagging, or premature failure. A professional roofing contractor will ensure:
- Proper overlap and fixing of layers
- Correct positioning to promote water runoff
- Integration with eaves, ridge, and ventilation systems
Conclusion
Roof felt is more than just an underlayer — it’s a crucial part of your roof’s protection system. Whether you’re planning a re-roof, repairing damage, or upgrading an ageing installation, understanding roof felt will help you maintain your property’s integrity.
If you’re based in Linton, Cambridgeshire and need advice or assistance with your roofing project, Linton Roofing Repairs is here to help. We offer expert roofing services with a focus on quality, safety, and long-term value. Get in touch today to arrange a free consultation.
Call us on: 01223 655 294
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