Roof maintenance is an essential part of protecting your home from the elements, and roofing felt plays a critical role in ensuring a long-lasting, waterproof barrier beneath your tiles or shingles. A common question we hear at GetYourselfFelt.co.uk is: Can you put new roof felt over old?
The short answer is yes, you can, but there are important factors to consider before deciding if this approach is right for your roofing project. Below, we’ll explore the pros, cons, and best practices for laying new roofing felt over old.
When It’s Possible to Overlay New Felt
In some cases, adding new roofing felt over old is not only possible but practical. This approach can save time and labor costs, especially if the underlying structure is sound and the existing felt is only slightly worn.
Here’s when it might be a good idea:
- The Existing Felt is Intact: If the old felt has minor wear and tear, such as small cracks or thinning areas, it may serve as a decent base for the new layer.
- No Signs of Water Damage: If there’s no evidence of leaks, rot, or mold in the existing felt or roof decking, an overlay can be a viable option.
- Structural Integrity: The roof deck beneath the felt must be strong, level, and free of warping or sagging.
Benefits of Adding New Felt Over Old
There are several advantages to this method:
- Cost-Effective: Saves time and reduces labor costs associated with removing the old felt.
- Added Insulation: The additional layer can enhance thermal insulation and weatherproofing.
- Quicker Installation: Skipping the tear-off phase speeds up the project timeline.
When You Should Remove the Old Felt
While overlaying can be convenient, it’s not always the best solution. Removing the old felt is necessary under certain circumstances, such as:
- Water Damage: If the existing felt has leaks, mold, or rot, it must be removed to address the underlying issues.
- Multiple Layers: Adding new felt over more than one existing layer can compromise the roof’s stability and increase weight, potentially leading to structural problems.
- Deterioration: If the old felt is brittle, torn, or crumbling, it won’t provide a reliable base for the new layer.
- Roof Deck Problems: If the decking is warped, rotten, or sagging, the issue must be fixed before applying any felt.
Best Practices for Overlaying New Felt
If you decide to install new felt over the old, follow these tips to ensure a successful result:
- Inspect Thoroughly: Check for signs of damage, leaks, or mold in the existing felt and roof deck.
- Clean the Surface: Remove any debris, dust, or loose material from the old felt.
- Repair Small Defects: Patch minor tears or cracks in the old felt before applying the new layer.
- Use High-Quality Materials: Choose durable, reinforced roofing felt, such as our 1F Reinforced Slaters Felt, for optimal performance.
- Ensure Proper Overlap: When applying the new felt, overlap the layers correctly to create a waterproof seal.
- Secure Properly: Use appropriate adhesives or nails to ensure the new felt is firmly fixed in place.
Expert Recommendations
While applying new roofing felt over old can save time and money, it’s crucial to assess the condition of your roof carefully. If in doubt, consult a professional roofer or reach out to our team of experts at GetYourselfFelt.co.uk for guidance. We offer high-quality roofing felt and adhesives designed to provide reliable, long-lasting protection for your home.
Yes, you can put new roof felt over old, but the decision should be based on the condition of the existing felt and the roof structure. By following best practices and using premium materials, you can ensure a successful installation that enhances your roof’s durability and performance.
If you’re ready to get started or have any questions about our products, visit GetYourselfFelt.co.uk today or contact us for expert advice!
