Problems with Roofing Felt

It is advisable to check for problems with your roof every now and again. This may include areas such as the fascia boards or guttering, and also includes the roofing felt. If there appears to be a problem then this can often be fixed using a simple DIY fix. Here is a quick guide to some of the common problems you may experience.

Blisters

If there are blisters in the felting material then the best way to repair this is to make a small cross-shaped cut in the blister. Make sure that you first clean the surface thoroughly, and make the cut carefully. Once you have made the cut, dry the area thoroughly (you could just leave it on a hot day).

Once the blistered area has dried out thoroughly you should apply some bitumen adhesive and press down to make the layer bond to the adhesive. You can also cut a new piece of felt to cover over the blistered area and make sure that all of the edges are sealed tight.

Tears

If there are any tears in the felt then you should start by clearing away any of the dirt or debris around the tear. You should also try to clear the area around it. Once you have done so, make sure that the area is dry and then apply some bitumen adhesive to the area. You should then press it down to seal the repair.

As a further protective measure to ensure the repair is sealed you can cover a new piece of felt over the tear and again attach with bitumen adhesive.

Repair Flashings

Where the roof joins onto the wall then there is a kind of sealing flashing. If this flashing needs to be repaired then the easiest way to do so is to use self-adhesive repair tape that is available from many stores. Simply follow the instructions that comes with the tape. This usually involves cleaning the area and smoothing down the surface to make sure that the tape is properly sealed.

Repair Overlaps

Sometimes the overlaps between the layers of felt can need repairs. If the area is lifting then you’ll need to stop it from doing so. As always, clear the dirt away from the area and make sure it is completely dry before starting work. You should then apply bitumen adhesive underneath the flat and press it down firmly until it is sealed.

You may need to weight the overlap down while it dries to stop it from lifting again. However, if you are having real problems then you can always apply a repair patch over the top of the overlap.

Conclusion

These are some of the most common problems that you may experience with your roofing felt, and as you can see, there are many ways to repair them using simple DIY methods. However, if the problem is more serious then you may need to replace the roofing felt or seek professional help.