Chippings on Felt Roof

[yottie]

At one time it was usual to always see some form of small chippings on flat felt roofs. Is there some reason not to do this now please. I understood it was best to ward off the sun on the felt ?

 

[catlad]

Mineral capping sheet normally green

 

[alan333]

Old style British Standard felt was non stretchy and brittle and the chips eased the hot/cold expansion cycle and helped to prevent the felt cracking. Todays polyester based or elastromeric felts are stretchy and don't need the same protection from the elements.

Chips also gave a better fire rating. Theory was that a burning ember from your neighbour's flaming house wouldn't set your roof alight. Nobody seems to bother about that any more tho for some reason.

 

[yottie]

I've inherited a front porch with a flat felt roof. The felt is sound but ugly, would I be OK to cover with stone chips for the time being ?

 

[alan333]

Yes, but it might be better to paint the complete roof including upstands with bitumenous solar reflective paint. It should be easy to get at a roofing merchant and is normally white or silver in colour so looks ok too.

Edit - i wouldn't recommend chips if the roof gets the window cleaner standing on it regularly.

 

[yottie]

Very useful Alan, many thanks.

 

[joe-90]

How do you you inherit a front porch?

 

[yottie]

Comes free when you buy a bungalow (instead of stairs ! )

 

[alan333]

Very useful Alan, many thanks.

You're most welcome.