Fibreglass Roofing: Benefits and Advantages Over Traditional Roofing Materials

Fibreglass Roofing: Benefits and Advantages Over Traditional Roofing Materials

When it comes to roofing materials, homeowners and businesses in the UK have a variety of options. While traditional materials like asphalt shingles, clay roof tiles, slate, and metal roofing have been around for years, there’s a more modern alternative—fibreglass.

Also called glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), fibreglass roofing has grown in popularity in recent years due to its unique advantages over traditional roofing systems. It offers exceptional durability, weather resistance, and long-term cost savings, making it an attractive choice for residential and commercial properties. 

Here’s why this material may well be the right option for your next roofing project.

Exceptional Durability & Weather Resistance

The UK is no stranger to extreme weather fluctuations, and unlike traditional roofing materials like clay tiles and asphalt shingles, fibreglass roofing has a significant advantage in this regard. Fibreglass roofs are engineered to resist damage from heavy rain, freezing temperatures, the hot sun, and UV rays. 

Because fibreglass roofing is non-porous, it doesn't absorb water, making it more weatherproof and resistant to leaks. It also doesn’t crack or warp under stress, and the material is resistant to rotting, warping, and corrosion, ensuring your roof remains structurally sound for many years. Plus, GRP fibreglass performs well in the face of extreme winds, as it’s designed to stay intact.

Additionally, the material’s smooth surface prevents the buildup of moss, algae, or debris, which are common problems with traditional roofing systems in damp climates. This smooth surface also ensures that water can flow off the roof without obstruction, reducing the risk of water damage or leaks even further.

A Lightweight Yet Robust Material

Despite its impressive durability, GRP fibreglass roofing is remarkably lightweight, especially when compared to metal or concrete tiles. This is a major advantage for installation and the structural integrity of the building. 

Due to their weight, traditional roofing materials often require additional support, increasing the time and cost of installation. In contrast, fibreglass roofing’s lightness reduces the stress on the roof structure, meaning less support is required.

The lightweight nature of fibreglass also makes it easier and quicker to install. Installation times are reduced, which can help save on labour costs, especially for larger projects. At the same time, because the material is less bulky and far more lightweight than traditional roofing tiles or shingles, you can easily invest in Apex Fibreglass Roofing Supplies’ high-quality, long-lasting products without needing a van or truck for transportation. 

Long-Term Cost Savings

The average cost of a fibreglass flat roof in the UK is £210 per m2, compared to £120 to £230 for clay tiles. While the initial cost of fibreglass roofing might be higher than that of traditional roofing materials, the long-term savings are significant. 

With materials like clay or asphalt, regular maintenance, such as cleaning, re-coating, or replacing damaged shingles, is required to ensure the roof remains in good condition. In contrast, fibreglass requires minimal upkeep, reducing ongoing repair and maintenance costs.

GRP fibreglass is highly durable and long-lasting, so it doesn’t need to be replaced as often as other materials. You can also patch or repair sections with a fibreglass roof kit, and it will be as good as new. With proper installation and maintenance, the lifespan of a fibreglass roof can easily extend to 50 years or more, making it a far better investment than traditional roofs that need replacing or major repairs every few decades. 

Ease of Maintenance

As fibreglass roofing is resistant to common issues like moss growth, cracking, and corrosion, it’s easy to maintain. All that’s required is a good yearly cleaning and occasional checks for damage. If you check your roof after the change of every season, you’ll easily spot any potential issues and can act fast to fix them.

If repairs are needed, fibreglass roofing is relatively simple to fix, making it cost-effective and hassle-free in the long run. At Apex Fibreglass Roofing Supplies, we stock a range of fibreglass roof kits for all purposes, from building a new roof to completing minor repairs. Our kits are available in different weights and thicknesses, with many designed specifically for harsh winter weather. This ensures that you can find what you need to maintain your roof or balcony all year round. 

Extensive Environmental Benefits

Compared to many traditional roofing materials, fibreglass roofing is a far more environmentally friendly option. GRP fibreglass is made from glass fibre, and glass is made from sand, which is a natural resource. Producing fibreglass also involves fewer chemicals and resources than manufacturing metal or asphalt, making it a more sustainable choice. 

Because it’s made from glass, fibreglass is also fully recyclable. When a roof reaches the end of its lifespan, it gets ground down and shredded before being used in other products such as artificial wood, cement filler, and asphalt. This helps reduce landfill waste, making it one of the most eco-friendly, sustainable roofing options available. 

Another important environmental advantage of fibreglass roofing is its energy efficiency. Many fibreglass roofing systems are designed with reflective coatings that reduce the amount of heat the building absorbs. This can help keep homes and commercial buildings cooler in summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. In colder months, fibreglass roofs help retain heat, ensuring your property remains warm without excessive heating. 

Reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems also makes homes and businesses more energy efficient. For commercial enterprises, this has the added benefit of helping to meet sustainability goals while reducing costs. 

Additionally, fibreglass’s durability reduces the frequency of roof replacements, ultimately requiring the use of fewer resources over time.

An All-Round Better Alternative To Traditional Roofing 

For UK property owners looking for a reliable, cost-effective roofing solution in the long run, fibreglass offers an ideal alternative to traditional roofing materials. With its ability to withstand the elements, minimal maintenance requirements, and energy-efficient properties, it’s a smart investment for the present and a sustainable choice for the future. 

If you have any questions about our range of fibreglass roof kits, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always more than happy to help. 

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