ROOFING
material used in various roofing applications, bitumen roofing sheets are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, similar to metal roofs. They are also resistant to rot, pests, and UV radiation, which helps to extend their lifespan. Bitumen sheets can last a minimum of 10 years, offering a more extended service life compared to felt roofing.”
A RIGHT ROOFING SOLUTION
There are advantages and drawbacks to metal, bitumen and felt roofing solutions, as BMJ discovers.
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hoosing the right roofing material is a crucial decision for any building project, and it’s essential for builders’ merchants to offer a range of
solutions that cater to the diverse needs of their customers, says Ardit Strica, technical manager for Onduline Building Products. “Metal roofing sheets have long been favoured for their durability and longevity. Made from materials such as steel or aluminium, metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions, making them ideal for areas prone to heavy rain, snow, or high winds,” Strica says. They are also resistant to fire, pests, and rot, which contributes to their long lifespan.
However, metal roofs do come with their own set of challenges to consider. One of the primary concerns is the initial cost. Metal roofing sheets tend to be more expensive than other roofing materials, which can be a significant upfront investment for homeowners or builders working on a tight budget. Additionally, metal roofs can be noisy during rain or hailstorms unless proper insulation is installed.
Despite these drawbacks, the durability and low maintenance requirements of metal roofs often outweigh the initial cost concerns for many customers.
Strica adds that, on the other hand, felt roofing, another traditional choice, offers a different set of benefits.
“Felt is generally used on flat or low-pitched roofs and is known for being cost-effective
One of the advantages of bitumen roofing sheets is their cost-effectiveness, Strica adds. Generally more affordable than metal roofing, they’re an option for budget-conscious projects, and are relatively easy to install, often requiring fewer specialised tools and skills than metal roofing. This ease of installation can result in lower labour costs and faster project completion times.
Bitumen benefits
“Furthermore, handling bitumen sheets is also safer. They are lightweight, flexible, and do not contain sharp corners like metal sheets, hence they are less likely to cause injuries during installation.
and relatively easy to install. This material is typically made from bitumen-soaked fibres, providing a waterproof barrier that protects structures from moisture. Felt roofing is also lightweight, which reduces the structural load on buildings and makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.”
He adds: “However, felt may need to be replaced more often than other roofing solutions, depending on the quality of the material and the environmental conditions it is exposed to. Furthermore, while felt is effective at waterproofing, it doesn’t offer much in terms of insulation or energy efficiency. For users looking for a practical and cost- effective roofing solution, felt may be the ideal choice.
Strica says: “Bitumen roofing sheets present a middle ground between metal and felt, combining several benefits while mitigating some of their drawbacks. A highly versatile
November 2024
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
“In terms of aesthetics, bitumen roofing sheets come in a variety of colours and profiles, allowing builders to achieve the desired look without compromising on performance. This versatility makes bitumen an excellent choice for a wide range of buildings, from commercial properties to leisure buildings, industrial warehouses and agricultural structures.” Bitumen roofing sheets also provide superior sound insulation compared to metal sheets. This acoustic benefit makes them excellent at dampening noise, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall or strong winds, which significantly reduces the impact noise from raindrops and hail. However. although they are more durable than felt, they do not typically last as long as metal roofing sheets. Strica explains: “For builders’ merchants, stocking a variety of roofing materials is essential to meet the diverse needs of their customers. Metal roofing sheets are an excellent option for those seeking long-term durability and minimal maintenance. Felt roofing appeals to budget-conscious customers who need a quick and easy roofing solution, whereas bitumen roofing sheets offer a balanced alternative, providing durability, cost- effectiveness, and ease of installation. “By understanding the pros and cons of each material, builders’ merchants can better advise their customers and help them choose the right roofing solution for their specific projects. Whether it’s the enduring strength of metal, the affordability of felt, or the versatile performance of bitumen, having a comprehensive range of options ensures that every customer can find a solution.” BMJ
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