How to choose the right roofing felt?
When you are planning a roof renovation or building a new roof, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right roofing felt. The roof felt is an important part of the waterproofing of the roof and protects the building from weather conditions. In this article, we go through how to choose the right roofing felt and which factors should be taken into account.
1. Roof slope
The slope of the roof directly affects what kind of roofing felt is the best choice. Different felts suit steep and low-pitched roofs. On a low-pitched roof, water stays on the surface longer, so more durable and thicker felts are generally recommended there, while lighter felts can also be used on steeper roofs.
2. Weather conditions
Finland’s changing weather conditions set special requirements for roofing felt. It is important to choose a blanket that can withstand both frost and heat well. In addition, the felt should be UV-protected so that it does not become brittle in sunlight.
3. Materials
Roofing blankets are available in several different materials, such as bitumen, rubber bitumen and plastic. Bitumen roofing felt is the most common and offers good protection against water. Rubber bitumen is more flexible and durable, but also a more expensive option. Plastic mats are light and easy to install, but their durability is not necessarily as good as bituminous mats.
4. Installation method
The method of installing the roof blanket also affects the choice. Self-adhesive felts are easy to install and are great for small projects. Felts attached with hot bitumen require more skill, but they offer a very durable and compact end result.
5. Price and budget
Budget is always an important factor in construction projects. The prices of roofing felts vary greatly depending on the material, thickness and manufacturer. It is important to find a balance between quality and price. The cheapest option may not be the best in the long run if it requires constant maintenance and repairs.
6. Warranty and durability
Before making a purchase decision, you should check what kind of warranty the roofing felt has. A good guarantee gives you peace of mind and ensures that the blanket will last a long time. Durability is particularly important, as the roofing felt is constantly exposed to weather conditions.
7. Environmental friendliness
Environmental friendliness is an increasingly important factor in the selection of building materials. Many manufacturers now offer eco-friendly options that are made from recycled materials and are completely recyclable after use.
8. Appearance
The roof is part of the house’s overall appearance, so it is worth choosing a felt whose color and finish match the style of your house.
You can find more information about roofing felts and their selection from, for example, the following sources:
