Felt roofing is a cost-effective and widely used material for flat roofs, sheds, garages, and extensions. However, over time, even the most well-laid felt roofs will deteriorate and require replacement. If you’re based in Sutton-on-Hull and facing this decision, you may be wondering whether to tackle the job yourself or hire a professional roofer.
At TRP Roofing Sutton-on-Hull, we believe in helping homeowners make informed choices. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of DIY vs professional felt roof replacement so you can decide what’s best for your property, budget, and peace of mind.
Understanding Felt Roof Replacement
A typical felt roof consists of multiple layers of bitumen-based material applied using torch-on or cold adhesive methods. When it comes time to replace it, the old roofing must be stripped away, the surface prepped, and new layers installed with precision.
Mistakes in any of these steps can lead to:
- Leaks and water ingress
- Blistering or lifting of the felt
- Reduced lifespan
- Higher long-term repair costs
That’s why deciding between a DIY job and a professional service shouldn’t be taken lightly.
DIY Felt Roof Replacement: Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Lower upfront cost: No labour charges.
- Convenience: Work at your own pace and schedule.
- Sense of accomplishment: Satisfaction from completing a hands-on project.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of expertise: Without roofing experience, mistakes are likely.
- Risk of injury: Working at height carries serious risks.
- Improper materials: Selecting the wrong felt or adhesives can shorten lifespan.
- No guarantees: DIY work typically voids manufacturer warranties.
DIY might be suitable for small, low-risk areas like garden sheds or summerhouses. However, for larger structures or occupied buildings, the risks quickly outweigh the benefits.
Professional Felt Roof Replacement: Why It’s Worth It
Hiring an experienced roofing contractor like TRP Roofing Sutton-on-Hull ensures your new felt roof is installed safely, correctly, and to industry standards.
Key Benefits:
- Expert installation: Professional techniques prevent future issues like leaks or poor drainage.
- High-quality materials: Access to commercial-grade felts and modern tools.
- Safety assurance: Trained teams work with full safety measures in place.
- Warranty and aftercare: Most professional work includes guarantees for materials and workmanship.
- Time efficiency: Jobs completed faster and more reliably.
For properties in Sutton-on-Hull, where weather can be unpredictable, a professionally installed felt roof offers better durability and performance in the long term.
Situations Where DIY Is Not Advisable
Even confident DIYers should avoid felt roof replacement if:
- The roof covers a habitable room or valuable space
- The structure is over 2.5 metres high
- You notice signs of timber rot or water damage beneath the felt
- There are drainage or ventilation complications
- The roof features upstands, skylights, or vents requiring specialist sealing
In these cases, incorrect installation could compromise the entire structure or lead to costly internal repairs.
Cost vs Value: Looking Beyond the Price Tag
While DIY may seem cheaper on paper, hidden costs can mount up quickly:
- Buying the correct tools and safety equipment
- Re-doing sections that fail or leak
- Paying for professional repairs if the DIY work fails prematurely
In contrast, a properly installed felt roof from TRP Roofing Sutton-on-Hull provides years of reliable performance with fewer ongoing issues, offering better long-term value.
Conclusion
When deciding who should replace your felt roof, consider more than just the initial cost. DIY may suit very small, non-critical roofs, but for most homeowners in Sutton-on-Hull, professional installation provides peace of mind, better workmanship, and longer-lasting results.
At TRP Roofing Sutton-on-Hull, we offer high-quality felt roofing replacements throughout Sutton-on-Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire. Whether your current roof is showing signs of wear or has already failed, our experienced team is here to help.
Call us on: 01482 429 195
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