When roofs start to fail, provided irreversible damage hasn't been done to the substructure, most roofs don't need to be rebuilt from scratch, and can instead just be repaired or, in some cases, refurbished.
Roof refurbishment is basically an overhaul of what's there - more in-depth than a repair, but not as drastic as a new roof. Refurbishments frequently reuse existing material where possible, saving you money both for materials and for paying roofers (since refurbishment is typically a shorter process than a whole new roof).
The question of whether it can be done on your roof takes into account various factors, such as:
- How extreme is damage? Has water ingressed and, if so, has it irreparably damaged joists, walls or other substructures?
- What materials do you plan to use for a refurbishment? Some systems don't 'play well' with other systems, which can necessitate a new roof.
- How much previous repair has been done and what systems have they used? We're frequently called out for roofs that have used a 'patchwork' of systems over time (i.e. asphalt, concrete, felt, ply). Typically, each one of these systems 'fails' in different ways, so fixing them with a single system can be difficult, meaning a new roof is usually required (though see below).
The Polymer System
One of the reasons we're often called upon for refurbishments is because the polymer system works with almost any substrate - not just the usual felt, mastic, bitumen, asphalt etc, but also glass, lead, copper and a wide range of other materials. This means the polymer system can be used to refurbish roofs where a variety of previous materials have been used, where single materials have been used, and even where damage is fairly extensive.
The polymer system reuses spent plastic particles (preventing them from ending up in rivers, seas and soil) to coat, seamlessly and jointlessly, nearly any substrate material. It mends gaps, levels the roof, can be expertly controlled to taper rainwater more effectively, is 'perfect-forming' around details, and creates a UV-proof, weatherproof, theftproof, waterproof and fireproof barrier against even the roughest of elements.
For an illustration of how the polymer system easily clads an array of 'patchwork' materials, take a look at our most recent mastic asphalt & concrete roof refurbishment here>
To find out how we can help with your roof, simply call today on 01970 610047 or drop us an email. We work UK-wide, can get to most roofs quickly, never pass on your details, and offer FREE, no-obligation onsite assessments.