Why Fibreglass Roofing is Still With us 50 Years On

GRP Roofing (Glass Reinforced Polyester – Fibreglass) was developed after GRP was first introduced in the 1950s as a solution for RAF planes previously built using plywood. The plywood aircraft were not as transparent to microwaves as GRP.

GRP was later introduced as a roofing system for a number of construction types. It is more commonly referred to as glass fibre or fibreglass roofing.

GRP roofing will not show much deterioration over a thirty-year period.This durability has made it a success with roofing systems installers and building owners.

GRP is often used in flat roofing and can be laid over an existing roof for better protection against weather leading to greater control over drainage. GRP laminate is usually laid at conditions greater than 5 degrees celsius using suitable coating.

The structure, or “deck” below can be made of board or wood and should be sound before the laminate is laid. It’s important that there is no water between the GRP and structure below, as this can cause severe damage. Such damage could undermine the structure which can in turn harm the roof. In this case roof repairs would be necessary to reseal the building and secure it against further damage.

Other Roofing Systems

Other flat roofing systems are often used in place of GRP and each has similar qualities.

Built-up roofing (B.U.R) is a system made up of laminated bitumen and roof felts. Built-up roofs can be used on any kind of deck and can last for a minimum of fifteen years if the structure below is insulated and well constructed with appropriate materials.

E.P.D.M. (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber roofing is primarily used to seal a roof. This rubber roofing material is also used in tubing and inside many household and electronics appliances due to its usefulness as a tough housing and non-conducting material.

Single-ply roofing is another term for a roofing system and can consist of many roof sealing materials including E.P.D.M. and T.P.O. (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), a popular choice for eco-friendly constructions.

In contrast to some other roofing systems, fibreglass has a large number of other applications. The rise of GRP as a leading material was due to the need for a lighter, stronger and permeable (to microwaves) aircraft material, which has carried it well in its versatility and use in other vehicles and home building.

Uses of GRP in Vehicles

Fibreglass is commonly known for its usage in boats. As a water-tight, light, tough and versatile material, GRP is perfect as a base for boat construction. It is not only used in yachts and larger boats but also in canoes, kayaks and smaller craft. As boats often come under stress from all of mother nature’s forces, fibreglass boat repairs are sometimes necessary.

Fibreglass is still used in aircraft, including commercial airliners and gliders, and also many leisure vehicles from go-karts to sports cars.

Uses of GRP in Homes

Fibreglass piping is used in water systems for drinking, cooling water, waste (sewage) water control and others. Gas and heating pipes are often made of GRP. Storage tanks for water, sewage and other substances are often made of fibreglass as it is impermeable and safe.

As well as in fibreglass roofing systems, GRP is used in doors, windows, awnings, chimneys, sills and other areas of the home. It is a tough and hard-wearing, making it a valuable building material.

The future of GRP roofing systems looks safe due to its availability and excellent roofing qualities including durability. Its continued use as a material of choice for boat building companies, caravan manufacturers, performance and leisure vehicle manufacturers and more means its future looks very promising.

This article was produced for 1st Class Fibreglass Solutions.