The Professional GRP Repair Process: What to Expect
A professional GRP repair is more than just applying a bit of sealant. It’s a technical process that, when done correctly, integrates seamlessly with your existing roof. A qualified GRP roofing contractor will typically follow these key steps.
Step 1: Thorough Inspection
The first action a tradesperson will take is to conduct a detailed assessment of the roof to identify the exact source and extent of the damage. This involves more than a quick glance; they will check the entire surface, the trims, and the drainage system to ensure they are treating the cause, not just the symptom.
Step 2: Meticulous Surface Preparation
This is arguably the most critical stage. The repair area must be completely clean, dry, and free of any dirt, moss, or loose material. The professional will then typically use a grinder or heavy-grit sandpaper to abrade the surface. This mechanical keying is essential for the new resin to form a strong, permanent chemical bond with the old roof structure.
Step 3: Applying the Repair
Depending on the damage, the tradesperson will use one of several techniques:
- For Minor Cracks & Pinholes:The area will be ground back, cleaned with acetone, and a new layer of catalysed topcoat resin will be applied to seal the fracture.
- For Larger Holes & Damaged Sections:The damaged area will be cut out right back to the timber decking. A new piece of OSB3 board may be fitted if the deck is rotten. Then, a new section of chopped strand matting is laid, saturated with catalysed laminating resin, and consolidated with a paddle roller to remove all air pockets.
- Re-applying the Topcoat:Once the laminating resin has cured, the repair area is lightly sanded and cleaned before a new, pigmented topcoat is applied. This topcoat provides the final waterproof layer and UV protection. The roofer will aim to match the colour to your existing roof for a neat finish.
Why You Must Hire a Professional Fibreglass Roofer
It can be tempting to try a DIY repair using a kit from a hardware shop, but this often proves to be a false economy. Fibreglass roofing is a chemical process, and a successful, long-lasting repair depends on getting the conditions and application exactly right.
A professional GRP roofer brings essential expertise. They understand the correct resin-to-catalyst ratios, which change depending on the ambient temperature. They know how to properly prepare the surface to ensure an unbreakable bond, and they can identify whether a simple patch will suffice or if a more significant underlying issue needs addressing. Attempting this yourself without experience can result in a failed repair that quickly leaks again, potentially costing you far more to put right.
Furthermore, working at height carries significant safety risks. Professional roofers have the correct safety equipment, training, and insurance. A reputable tradesperson found through ServiceTasker will also provide a guarantee for their work, offering you crucial protection and peace of mind.
How Much Does Fibreglass Roof Repair Cost?
The cost of repairing a GRP roof can vary significantly based on a few key factors. The primary influences on price are the size and complexity of the repair, the accessibility of the roof (does it require scaffolding?), and your location in the UK, with costs typically higher in London and the South East.
To give you a general idea, here are some estimated cost brackets. These are for guidance only, and you should always seek a detailed, written quote from a professional.
Estimated Repair Costs
- Small, Localised Repair:For a single crack, hole, or damaged corner, you can expect to pay between£150 and £350. This would typically cover the call-out, materials, and labour for a straightforward fix.
- Medium-Sized Repair:For a larger area of damage, perhaps up to a square metre that needs cutting out and re-laminating, the cost would likely be in the range of£350 to £700.
- Full Topcoat Refurbishment:If the entire protective topcoat is worn but the structure is sound, re-coating the whole roof is a cost-effective way to extend its life. This is typically priced per square metre, ranging from£40 to £60 per m².
Remember that most GRP roofing contractors will have a minimum charge to cover their time, travel, and initial assessment. When comparing quotes, ensure they are itemised, so you can see the breakdown of labour, materials, and any additional costs like waste disposal or scaffolding.
