Low pitched mineral roof covering

[TheHoffi]

Hi all,

we are in the process of purchasing a house and I just received the survey where a recommendation is made which I can't value proper.

Quote: A low pitched mineral felt roof covering is provided to the main roof. Such roof coverings have a limited life and are prone to sudden failure. The felt roof covering is laid over wood wool slabs.

A quick search on the internet showed that such tiles can have a life of up to 40 years.

My question now is: What should I best check myself before I consider getting a roofer in?
I am a bit suspicious that the survey statement is more a security statement rather then a serious issue.

I have a fairly good house DIY knowledge but roofing is new to me.

Thanks!

The Hoffi

 

[TheHoffi]

Alright, I now had a look myself and at least now I know what is meant by the statement of the survey. Couldn't believe that such a roof type is used on domestic houses!

Anyway: What now would be interesting to know is how much would it cost to get a proper roof in place with tiles? The rafters of the current roof are quite thin so I am not sure if this could be simply done by putting a proper roof on top of the existing one. The surface should be arround 60sqm.

And if a rough estimate won't be possible with the mentioned data: Can be said if the whole roof would need to be constructed new? (rafters, insulation, tiles). That at least would lead to a direction regarding the costs.

Any answer would be much appreciated!
thanks!

The Hoffi

 

[TheHoffi]

Wow!
First time in my life that I have asked a question in a forum that can't be answered, not even commented on!

Never mind, answer might no longer be needed!

 

[LeadFarmer]

The survey I had on my previous house warned about the flat felt covered dormers, stating they were coming to the end of their lives.

8 years later the felt was still doing its job properly.

I think they are just protecting themselves as its impossible to say exactly when a felt roof may leak.

 

[noseall]

Wood-wool board is only a problem if the covering fails. This can be catastrophic.

That said, it is a low weight, low cost, bottom end product.

As for replacing the whole covering with say tiles, then you will need a structural survey to see if the existing roof timbers will tolerate the extra weight.