Can You Felt Over Old Felt On A Shed Roof In Bracknell?

Introduction

A shed serves many purposes for a homeowner. It can be a storage space, a workshop, or a place to relax in the garden. However, like any other structure, a shed requires proper maintenance to ensure it remains functional and appealing. One of the most critical components of a shed is the roof, and the quality of the roof can dictate how long the entire structure lasts. It is no wonder that homeowners may have questions regarding how best to repair their shed roof. One common question is, can you felt over old felt on a shed roof in Bracknell?

In this article, we aim to answer this question as comprehensively as possible. We will look at the role of felt in a shed roof, when to replace felt, and whether felt can be felt over old felt. We will also highlight the steps to take when replacing felt and how a roofing company like A1 Roofing Bracknell can help you.

Why is Felt Important in a Shed Roof?

Felt is an essential component of a shed roof. It is a layer of waterproof material that sits between the timber rafters and the tiles or slates that make up the roof's outer layer. Felt serves to:

• Protect the timber rafters from water damage
• Improve the insulation of the shed by limiting heat loss
• Serve as a vapor barrier.

Without felt, the shed roof would be vulnerable to water damage, rotting, and mould growth.

When to Replace Felt on a Shed Roof

Felt has a lifespan of between 10 to 15 years, depending on factors such as the quality of the felt, the climate, and the maintenance practices. Signs that it is time to replace the felt on your shed roof include:

• Visible cracks or holes on the surface of the felt
• Sagging or buckling of the felt
• Water damage or leaks in the shed roof
• Peeling paint or fungus growth on the shed roof

Once you notice any of these signs, it is essential to take action and replace the felt immediately. Delaying repairs may result in further damage and increased repair costs.

Can You Felt Over Old Felt on a Shed Roof in Bracknell?

The answer to this question is yes and no, and it depends on the condition of the old felt.

In some cases, it may be possible to felt over old felt. However, this practice is not always recommended. If the old felt is in good condition and dry, and the new felt is of the same or better quality, it may be okay to felt over. This process is known as overlaying, and it essentially involves adding a new layer of felt over the old one.

Overlaying can be a cost-effective and convenient option for shed owners since it saves time and money that would otherwise be spent on removing the old felt.

However, if the old felt is damaged or has water trapped underneath it, it is not advisable to apply new felt over it. This is because the new felt will not adhere to the old one correctly, and water can still seep through, causing further damage to the shed roof.

The best option, in this case, is to remove the old felt entirely and replace it with a new one.

Steps to Take When Replacing Felt

Replacing felt on a shed roof is not a complicated process, but it requires a careful and deliberate approach to ensure the best outcomes. Below are the steps to take when replacing felt on a shed roof.

Step 1: Measure the Shed

The first step is to measure the shed's dimensions so that you can know how much felt you need. This involves measuring the length and width of the shed and multiplying the two values to get the total area in square feet.

Step 2: Remove the Old Felt

If you are not overlaying the felt, you will need to remove the old felt entirely. This means using a hammer to remove any nails or tacks holding the felt to the timber planks or fascia boards.

Step 3: Cut the New Felt to Size

Using the measurements you took in step 1, cut the new felt to the appropriate size. Ensure that you leave enough allowance on each side to account for any curvature or incline on the roof.

Step 4: Apply the New Felt

Starting from the lowest point of the shed roof, set the new felt in place, ensuring that it is flush with the timber planks. Use nails to attach the felt to the shed roof, beginning at the lowest point and working your way up.

Step 5: Cut Out Tongue Pieces

To ensure that the felt overlaps correctly, cut out tongue pieces on the narrow edge of each piece.

Step 6: Add a Second Row of Felt

Where necessary, add a second row of felt, overlapping the first row by at least three inches.

Step 7: Add the Fascia Boards

Once the felt is in place, add the fascia boards, ensuring that they are flush with the felt. Use nails or screws to attach the boards securely.

How A1 Roofing Bracknell Can Help You

At A1 Roofing Bracknell, we understand that shed roof repairs can be daunting. That is why we offer affordable, professional, and reliable roofing services to our clients in Bracknell and beyond.

If you need shed roof repairs, we can help. Our team of expert roofers will work with you to assess the condition of your shed roof, determine the best solution, and carry out repairs to the highest standards.

Whether you need felt replacement, fascia board repairs, or a complete shed roof overhaul, we have the skills and tools to get the job done. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, professionalism, and excellent customer service.

Conclusion

Felt is an essential component of a shed roof. It serves to protect the timber rafters, improve insulation, and act as a vapor barrier. Over time, felt may wear out, prompting the need for replacement. Shed owners may wonder whether they can felt over old felt on a shed roof in Bracknell. The answer depends on the condition of the old felt.

If the old felt is in good condition and dry, it may be possible to overlay new felt over it. However, if the old felt is damaged or has water trapped underneath it, it is best to remove it entirely and replace it with a new one.

At A1 Roofing Bracknell, we offer professional roofing services that include shed roof repairs. Our team of experts can help you assess the condition of your shed roof, determine the best solution, and carry out repairs to the highest standards.

If you need shed roof repairs in Bracknell, contact us today on 01344 534049 or via email at [email protected] to schedule a consultation.