So, How Long Does Roof Felt Last in the UK?
When maintaining a roof, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is how long does roof felt last in the UK. Roof felt is a protective layer fitted beneath tiles or used as the main covering on flat roofs. It acts as a barrier against moisture, helps control water runoff, and offers an added layer of insulation. Although it plays a crucial role in roof durability, its lifespan depends on several factors including the type of felt, weather exposure, installation quality, and ongoing maintenance. Understanding how long roof felt lasts helps you plan repairs, prevent leaks, and protect your property from long term damage.
What Roof Felt Does
Roof felt is designed to keep moisture out of the roof structure. On pitched roofs, it sits underneath tiles and prevents wind driven rain from reaching the timber frame. On flat roofs, it forms the main waterproof layer. Felt also protects the roof during storms, prevents draughts, and reduces the risk of water collecting beneath the tiles. Because it has constant contact with the weather, the felt naturally deteriorates over time. Knowing when it is approaching the end of its lifespan allows you to repair or replace it before leaks occur.
Typical Lifespan of Roof Felt in the UK
In most cases, roof felt on pitched roofs lasts between fifteen and twenty five years. Well maintained felt can sometimes last longer, while older types that were commonly used on older homes may only last around ten to fifteen years. Modern breathable felt tends to last longer because it is designed to resist moisture, mould, and wind uplift.
For flat roofs, traditional felt coverings usually last between ten and fifteen years. High quality multi layer felt systems can last up to twenty years when maintained properly. The lifespan is shorter because flat roofs face more direct exposure to rain, sunlight, and standing water. Without proper drainage, the surface can deteriorate faster.
Weather conditions in the UK also play a part. Areas that experience high rainfall, strong winds, or coastal exposure generally see earlier wear. This is why regular inspections are essential, especially after storms.
Signs Your Roof Felt is Wearing Out
Knowing the signs of worn roof felt helps you deal with small issues before they become leaks. The most common indicators include:
- Damp patches in the loft after rain
- Light shining through gaps in the underlay
- Sagging or rippled felt beneath tiles
- Musty smells or mould in the roof space
- Visible tears or sections that have pulled away
- Water collecting on a flat roof surface
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to arrange a professional inspection. Our detailed drone surveys allow us to check the condition of your roof safely and thoroughly, especially if access is difficult.
What Affects the Lifespan of Roof Felt
Several factors influence how long roof felt lasts in the UK. These include:
Quality of materials
Modern breathable felts generally last longer than older bitumen based products.
Installation methods
Poorly fitted felt is likely to tear, sag, or lift much earlier.
Weather exposure
Rain, wind, frost, and sunlight all wear down felt over time.
Ventilation
Poor ventilation traps moisture in the roof space and reduces felt durability.
Maintenance
Regular roof checks and repairs can significantly extend the lifespan of your felt.
Having repairs carried out by experienced professionals ensures the felt performs properly for as long as possible. If the felt has reached the end of its life, replacing it through a full roof installation may be the best option.
When Roof Felt Needs Replacing
Roof felt should be replaced when it becomes brittle, torn, or no longer able to provide a watertight barrier. On pitched roofs, replacement is often done during re roofing. If tiles need frequent repairs or if you are experiencing recurring leaks, a full inspection will confirm whether the felt is failing.
On flat roofs, felt should be replaced when cracks, blisters, or splits appear. If water is pooling or penetrating the surface, this is usually a sign that the covering has worn out. Regular maintenance can delay replacement, but once the felt loses its waterproof qualities, renewing the roof becomes the safest option.
We carry out full inspections and provide clear assessments to help you decide whether repair or replacement is the best choice. Our experienced team provides high quality roof repairs that address both the felt and the external coverings.
How to Extend the Life of Roof Felt
Good maintenance plays a large role in prolonging the lifespan of roof felt. Simple steps include:
- Checking for cracked or missing tiles that may expose the felt
- Clearing gutters to prevent water pooling on roof surfaces
- Removing moss to reduce moisture retention
- Ensuring ventilation in the loft remains clear
- Booking annual inspections to catch problems early
Keeping the roof in good condition also helps prevent damage to the felt layer below. Regular inspections can identify early signs of deterioration that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Roof Felt and Building Regulations
If you are replacing a large area of roof felt or carrying out major repairs, certain work may need to comply with building regulations. This is especially important when upgrading insulation or replacing large sections of the roof covering. Our team ensures any work meets the required standards and is carried out safely.
When to Call Professional Roofers
If you are unsure about the condition of your roof felt, a professional inspection is the best way to get accurate advice. At Trust A Trade Roofing, we have extensive experience working with pitched and flat roofs across Kent. We also work closely with Hythe and Folkestone Roofers to provide reliable roofing services for local homes and businesses.
Our work is supported by Checkatrade’s roofing hub, which offers guidance and helps homeowners find trusted professionals. Whether you need minor repairs, full roof felt replacement, or a new installation, we ensure all work is carried out to a high standard.
Conclusion
Understanding how long roof felt lasts in the UK helps you maintain your roof and prevent problems before they develop into costly repairs. Most felt lasts between ten and twenty five years depending on the type of roof and how well it is maintained. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and good ventilation can help extend the lifespan significantly.
At Trust A Trade Roofing, we provide reliable inspections, repairs, and installations to keep your roof secure and watertight. If you would like expert advice or need your roof felt assessed, contact us here.