Fibreglass Roofing Cost

Fibreglass roofing has emerged as a durable and cost-effective solution for residential and commercial properties. Its numerous benefits, such as longevity and low maintenance, make it a popular choice. However, before opting for a fibreglass roof, it's crucial to understand the various factors that influence its cost.

In this article, we will delve into the key considerations that affect the price of fibreglass roofing, helping homeowners and property owners make informed decisions about this essential construction investment.

How Much Does Fibreglass Roofing Cost?

A solid roof is essential as it acts as the first line of defence against the elements. A good roof will shield the building from rain, snow, UV radiation, and wind. A well-maintained roof will ensure the structural integrity of the building, protect the building from water damage, and contribute to the comfort and well-being of the occupants.

Fibreglass roofing is exceptionally durable when compared to other roofing materials. It is also highly resistant to weather and energy efficient. These qualities make it a great choice for both residential and commercial buildings.

Fibreglass roofing is made from fine glass fibres and strengthened plastic. A fibreglass roof will typically cost around £10,000 to £20,000. The overall cost will depend mostly on the size of your roof. However, your location can also play a part in the cost. Those based in London can expect to pay more than those based in other areas of the UK.

Fibreglass Roofing Prices

Below is a table highlighting the average fibreglass roofing prices in the UK:

Fibreglass Roofing Supply Costs

Fibreglass roofing is a composite material composed of protective resin typically made from polyester or acrylic and interwoven with glass fibres. These components combined create a durable, energy-efficient, and weather-resistant roofing material.

If you were wondering about the costs for the supplies alone, you can expect to pay around £100 to £150 per m². With this in mind, you would need to know the size of the roof beforehand. That way, you can order enough materials to cover the entire roof. Knowing the dimensions of the roof will allow you to calculate the overall cost of the materials.

The quality of the materials may affect the overall cost. Higher-quality materials typically cost more.

Additional Costs

There are several additional costs that you may need to consider when it comes to installing a fibreglass roof. You may also want to consider completing some additional jobs at the same time as your fibreglass roof installation. Below, we will go over these additional costs.

Skylight Installation Costs

When you are getting a new roof installed, you may want to consider getting a skylight installed. The average cost of Velux window installation is around £1,100.

A skylight can help add additional natural light to your home and improve its overall aesthetics.

Home Extension Costs

You may be looking for a new roof because you're planning on getting an extension on your home. An extension can add additional living space to your home and can be utilised for many uses. The average cost of a home extension is usually around £40,000.

House Exterior Paint Costs

While you’re working on your home’s exterior, you may want to consider painting your home. This can help to improve your home’s kerb appeal and can also help your home blend in well with your new fibreglass roof. The average cost of painting the exterior of your home is usually around £500 to £1,500.

Flat Roof Costs

Flat roof replacements cost between £1,000 and £5,000 depending on the roof size.

Flat roofs are prone to water issues such as water pooling and subsequent leaks, and if you're experiencing these issues, or have a particularly old and worn flat roof, it might be a good idea to get it updated before any issues set in.

Fibreglass Roofing Labour Costs and Timescales

If you are wondering what the labour costs are, you need to know that the labour costs will depend on several factors. Firstly, different roofing companies charge different amounts. If you are working with a local independent roofing company, you can expect to pay less than if you were to go for a big brand company.

Also, the size of your roof will affect the labour costs. The larger your roof is, the more you can expect to pay in labour costs as the job will take longer. Also, those based in and around London can expect to pay more for labour costs than those based in other areas of the UK.

A roofer will usually charge an hourly rate or a daily rate. The average hourly cost for a roofer is around £23 to £30. The average daily rate for a roofer is usually around £180 to £250. The overall labour costs that you pay will depend on the factors mentioned above.

Cost Factors of a Fibreglass Roof

There are several things that can affect the overall cost of a fibreglass roof installation. Below, we will go over everything that can affect the overall cost of your fibreglass roof installation.

Size

The size of your roof can affect the overall cost of the job. Fibreglass roof installations are usually calculated by square metres. This means that a larger roof will cost more to install than a smaller roof. A larger roof will take longer to install and will also require more materials, which is why the cost will add up for larger roofs.

Complexity

The complexity of the job can affect the overall cost. Some roofs may be in an awkward shape or difficult to access. Things like that can make the job take longer to complete, which can result in higher costs.

Labour

Labour costs can vary depending on the type of contractor that you choose and your location in the UK. Different roofing companies charge different amounts. If you are working with a local independent roofing company, you can expect to pay less than if you were to go for a big brand company.

Also, those based in and around London can expect to pay more for the labour costs than those based in other areas of the UK.

Roof Deck Preparation

The condition of the existing roof deck will affect the overall cost of the job. Your roof deck needs to be in good working order to hold the new roof. If any repairs are needed on the roof deck, this can affect the overall cost of the job. A proper substrate is essential for a fibreglass roof installation.

Fibreglass Roofing Layers

Fibreglass roofs consist of several layers of materials. The number of layers can affect the overall cost of the job. Also, the quality of the materials can affect the overall cost of the job. You can expect to pay more for materials that are of a higher quality.

Roof Insulation and Additional Features

If you want to get any additional features added to your fibreglass roof, such as a skylight, this can affect the overall cost. Additional features will increase the costs, and these increased costs will vary, depending on the job at hand.

Can You Install a Fibreglass Roof DIY?

It is possible to install a fibreglass roof as a DIY job. However, it is not recommended as there are many challenges and potential hazards involved with this type of work. Fibreglass roofing requires very careful planning and preparation. It also requires proper installation techniques and certain safety precautions to ensure a successful and durable installation.

Fibreglass rolls are very heavy and will require proper lifting and handling techniques to prevent any injuries. They also need to be accurately cut and measured to fit in with your roof dimensions and ensure proper seams and overlaps.

Fibreglass fibres can be very sharp and irritating, so it’s important to wear protective gear such as gloves and overalls to protect your skin from irritation. Exposure to resin fumes can cause some respiratory problems, so proper ventilation is needed throughout the entire installation.

Working at heights can also be very dangerous and requires certain safety precautions to prevent accidents. Freshly applied resin can be very hot, and this increases the risk of burns, so protective gear and proper handling are essential.

If you are considering installing a fibreglass roof yourself, it is important to have some previous experience in roofing. It is also essential that you follow all safety guidance and use the correct materials and tools for the job to ensure a safe and successful installation. Additionally, it's worth speaking to experienced fibreglass roof installers for advice and insights that may help you with the installation.

In the majority of cases, it’s best to leave this type of work to the professionals. Hiring professionals for the work will ensure that the job is done correctly and safely, giving you peace of mind and also saving you a lot of time.

Fibreglass Roof Maintenance

Fibreglass roofs require some maintenance. You will need to do things like inspect your roof regularly, repair damage quickly, and trim any nearby trees and vegetation. Below, we will go over the best ways to maintain your fibreglass roof.

Inspect Your Roof Regularly

Regular roof inspections are important so that you can detect any signs of damage or wear and tear. Look out for things like holes, cracks, and any other visible signs of damage. Check the gutters, flashing, and drainage systems for any clogs or signs of damage.

Clean Your Roof

Fibreglass roofs require regular cleaning to remove any debris, dirt, and algae. To clean the roof, use a mild detergent and soft-bristled brush to gently clean the surface. Avoid using any abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water, as these could damage the surface of the roof.

Repair Any Damage

If you see any damage during the inspection, you must address this immediately. Minor damage can be repaired with a simple fibreglass repair kit. However, larger damage will require professional assistance.

Trim Nearby Trees and Vegetation

Any overhanging trees or vegetation near the roof may cause scratches or damage to the roof's surface. They may also block the gutters or drainage system. Be sure to trim back any vegetation or branches that come into contact with the roof.

Building Regulations & Planning Permission for a Fibreglass Roof

There are certain building regulations that apply to a fibreglass roof. Take a look at the list of building regulations that need to be adhered to below:

• Water needs to drain to one or two edges.
• The roof slope needs to have a minimum fall of 1:80.
• Cold roofs need to be adequately ventilated.
• Waterproofing needs to extend up the adjacent walls at least 150mm from the surface of the roof.
• The roof must be constructed to be resistant to winds and strong enough to step on.
• Warm roofs must have an adequate vapour control layer.

It is important to ensure that the fibreglass roof installation adheres to all building regulations. A professional fibreglass roof installer should be aware of all building regulations and build the roof to code with these regulations.

Cost of Removing a Fibreglass Roof

Before installing a new roof, you must remove the old one first. Removing a fibreglass roof is a very time-consuming job. However, it can be sped up using a circular saw to cut up the materials. When removing a fibreglass roof, you must wear an adequate dust mask to prevent yourself from breathing in any of the fine dust generated in the process.

On average, you can expect to pay around £1,000 to £4,000 to remove a fibreglass roof. The price can depend on several things, such as the size of the roof and the location of your property.

The larger the roof, the more it will cost to remove. Also, those based in and around the London area can expect to pay more for the labour costs of the job than those based in other areas of the UK.

Fibreglass roofing is a reliable and cost-effective solution for protecting homes and buildings from the elements. However, understanding the factors that influence the cost is essential for successful budgeting and decision-making.

By carefully considering these factors and seeking professional guidance when necessary, homeowners and property owners can invest in fibreglass roofing with confidence, ensuring long-lasting protection and value for their structures.

Checklist: How to Find and Hire a Fibreglass Roofer in the UK

Ready to get started on your fibreglass roofing project? Here's what we suggest when hiring a local roofer:

• Gather at least 3 quotes from different local roofers to compare your costs, being sure to ask for an itemised breakdown of costs so you can see what you're paying for.
• Look at your trader's credentials - do they have experience working with fibreglass and relevant training/qualifications in roofing?
• Check to see if they have valid public liability insurance and whether or not they offer a guarantee on their work.
• Read past customer reviews, paying close attention to any comments about timekeeping, cleanliness on site, and whether they'd recommend the trader.
• Ensure the trader has experience with fibreglass roof projects similar to your own, and look at photos and videos of their work to get a feel for their quality.

Sources

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/roof/building-regulations-re-roofing
https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/roof/building-regulations-new-roofs