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Step-by-Step Guide on Felting a Garage Roof

Updated: Sep 24

To felt a garage roof, remove old felt, clean the surface, and apply adhesive. Then, roll out new felt and secure it.

A well-felted garage roof provides essential protection against weather elements. Proper installation prevents leaks and extends the roof's lifespan. Begin by removing any existing felt or debris from the roof surface. Ensure the area is clean and dry for optimal adhesion.

Apply a suitable adhesive, working in manageable sections. Roll out the new felt with precision, pressing it down securely to avoid air bubbles. Secure the felt edges with nails or staples. It creates a strong, weatherproof roof. It protects your garage and its contents from damage. Regular maintenance and inspections will find issues early. This will ensure long-term protection.

Cozy garage with a car inside, surrounded by autumn trees and wet driveway reflecting the lights.

Materials Needed

Felt roofing is a great way to protect your garage from the elements. Understanding the materials needed is the first step to a successful project. Using the right felt type and tools ensures a long-lasting, durable roof.

Felt Types

Choosing the right type of felt is crucial for your garage roof. There are several options available, each with its own benefits.

Standard Felt:

  • Affordable and easy to find.

  • Suitable for most weather conditions.

  • Lasts up to 10 years with proper care.

Self-Adhesive Felt:

  • Simple to install without extra tools.

  • Provides excellent waterproofing.

  • Ideal for small to medium-sized roofs.

Polyester Reinforced Felt:

  • Extremely durable and long-lasting.

  • Resistant to tears and punctures.

  • Best for areas with extreme weather conditions.

The table below summarises the key features of each felt type:

Felt Type

Benefits

Drawbacks

Standard Felt

Affordable, widely available

Shorter lifespan

Self-Adhesive Felt

Easy installation, excellent waterproofing

More expensive

Polyester Reinforced Felt

Highly durable, tear-resistant

Higher cost


 An assortment of tools displayed on a black board, highlighting essential items for garage roofing tasks

Tools Required

Having the right tools is essential for felting a garage roof. Here is a list of the tools you will need:


Basic Tools:

  • Tape Measure - Ensures accurate measurements.

  • Utility Knife - For cutting the felt to size.

  • Hammer - For securing felt with nails.

  • Roofing Nails - To fasten the felt securely.

Advanced Tools:

  • Staple Gun - Speeds up the fastening process.

  • Heat Gun - Useful for self-adhesive felt.

  • Roller - Ensures smooth application of felt.

Safety Gear:

  • Gloves - Protect your hands from cuts.

  • Safety Glasses - Shield your eyes from debris.

  • Non-slip Shoes - Provide better grip on the roof.

The table below outlines the essential tools and their uses:

Tool

Use

Tape Measure

Measure the roof area

Utility Knife

Cut the felt to size

Hammer

Nail the felt

Roofing Nails

Secure the felt

Staple Gun

Fasten felt quickly

Heat Gun

Apply self-adhesive felt

Roller

Smooth out the felt

Gloves

Protect hands

Safety Glasses

Shield eyes

Non-slip Shoes

Prevent slipping

Preparing The Roof

Felt roofing is a simple yet effective way to protect your garage from the elements. Before you begin, it's crucial to make the necessary preparations for the roof. This ensures the felt adheres well and lasts longer. Proper preparation involves cleaning the surface and inspecting for damage.

Cleaning The Surface

Before applying felt, the roof must be clean. A clean surface allows the felt to stick better, preventing future issues.

Follow these steps to clean the roof:

  • Remove Debris: Use a broom or a brush to clear leaves, twigs, and dirt.

  • Wash the Roof: Use a hose to wash the surface. Ensure all dust and small particles are gone.

  • Scrub Stubborn Spots: For tough stains, use a scrub brush and soapy water. Rinse thoroughly.

  • Dry the Roof: Let the roof dry completely. Water can prevent the felt from sticking properly.

Ensure the roof is completely dry before moving to the next step. A damp surface can cause mould and mildew, weakening the roof.


A man is on the roof, cleaning and inspecting the garage roof for signs of damage.

Inspecting For Damage

After cleaning, inspect the roof for any damage. Fixing issues now will save you time and money later.

Here's how to inspect for damage:

  1. Check for Cracks: Look for cracks in the roof. Small cracks can become big problems.

  2. Look for Holes: Holes can let in water, causing leaks. Seal any holes you find.

  3. Examine the Edges: Check the edges of the roof. Loose edges can lift the felt, making it less effective.

  4. Assess the Roof's Structure: Ensure the roof is still strong. Weak spots can collapse under heavy rain or snow.

Inspecting and repairing the roof ensures the felt will last for years. Proper preparation is key to a successful roofing project.

Measuring The Area

Felt roofing your garage is a great way to protect it from the elements. Before starting, you need to take precise measurements of the area. This ensures you buy the right amount of materials and avoid wastage. Let's dive into how to measure your garage roof.

A car parked inside a spacious garage, showcasing a clean and organized environment.

Calculating Size

First, you need to calculate the size of your garage roof. Follow these steps:

  • Use a tape measure to find the length and width of the roof.

  • Measure both sides if the roof is sloped.

  • Write down the measurements in feet.

For example, if your roof is rectangular, use the formula:

Length x Width = Area

If your garage roof is 20 feet long and 15 feet wide, the area is:

20 ft x 15 ft = 300 sq ft

For more complex roof shapes, break them into smaller rectangles or triangles. Measure each section and add the areas together. 

This method ensures you get an accurate measurement of your roof area.

Estimating Felt Quantity

Next, estimate the felt quantity needed. Roof felt typically comes in rolls. Each roll covers a specific area. Here’s how to estimate:

  • Check the packaging of the felt roll for coverage details.

  • Divide your roof area by the coverage of one roll.

For example, if one roll covers 100 sq ft, and your roof area is 300 sq ft, you need:

300 sq ft / 100 sq ft per roll = 3 rolls

Consider a 10-15% extra felt for overlaps and cuts. If you need 3 rolls, get an extra roll to be safe. Always round up to ensure you have enough material.

Using this method ensures you have enough felt to cover your entire garage roof.

Applying Primer

Applying primer is a crucial step in felting a garage roof. It ensures proper adhesion of the felt to the roof surface. A well-applied primer extends the lifespan of the roofing material. This guide will help you choose the right primer and apply it with precision.

Choosing The Right Primer

Selecting the correct primer is essential. The primer acts as a binding agent between the roof and the felt. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Roof Material: Identify the type of material your roof is made of. Different materials require specific primers.

  • Weather Conditions: Some primers work better in certain weather conditions. Choose one that suits your local climate.

  • Drying Time: Check the drying time of the primer. Faster drying primers can save time but may require quick application.

  • Compatibility with Felt: Ensure the primer is compatible with the felt you plan to use. Compatibility ensures better adhesion.

Here is a table summarising the types of primers based on roof materials:

Roof Material

Recommended Primer

Metal

Acrylic Primer

Wood

Oil-Based Primer

Concrete

Epoxy Primer

Application Techniques

Proper application of the primer ensures a strong bond between the felt and the roof. Follow these steps for effective application:

  1. Clean the Surface: Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the roof surface. A clean surface ensures better primer adhesion.

  2. Stir the Primer: Stir the primer thoroughly to ensure even consistency. This step is crucial for uniform application.

  3. Apply with a Brush or Roller: Use a brush or roller to apply the primer. Ensure even coverage across the entire roof surface.

  4. Allow to Dry: Let the primer dry completely before applying the felt. Check the manufacturer's instructions for drying time.

  5. Check for Missed Spots: Inspect the roof for any areas that might have been missed. Reapply primer to those spots if necessary.

By following these application techniques, you ensure a strong and durable bond between the felt and the roof surface.

Laying The Felt

Felt roofing is a cost-effective and durable solution for your garage roof. One of the most important steps is laying the felt. It requires careful prep and exact application. This will create a waterproof, long-lasting seal. Follow the steps below to achieve a professional result.

Starting At The Edge

Begin by laying the felt at the lower edge of the roof. This will help you ensure a straight and even application. Follow these steps:

  • Unroll the felt and cut it to the correct length.

  • Align the felt with the roof edge, allowing for a 2-inch overhang.

  • Nail the felt using galvanized nails spaced 6 inches apart.

  • Ensure the felt is smooth and free from any wrinkles.

Repeat these steps for the entire length of the roof. Remember, starting at the edge ensures water runs off properly, keeping your garage dry.

Seaming The Felt

Once the first layer is in place, seaming the felt is crucial for preventing leaks. Follow these steps:

  1. Overlap the next strip of felt by at least 4 inches.

  2. Apply roofing adhesive along the overlap.

  3. Press down firmly to secure the bond.

  4. Use a roller to ensure even pressure and eliminate air bubbles.

Proper seaming ensures a waterproof seal. This step is essential for the longevity of your garage roof. Inspect the seams for any gaps or bubbles. If found, address them immediately to prevent future problems.

Close-up view of a roof featuring black shingles, showcasing texture and detail in the roofing material.

Securing The Felt

Felt roofs provide excellent protection against rain and weather. Securing the felt is essential for a durable garage roof. Properly securing the felt ensures your roof remains leak-free and lasts for years. In this section, we'll look at the best methods for securing roofing felt.


Using Adhesive

Adhesive is a critical tool for securing roofing felt. It provides a strong bond between the felt and the roof surface. Here’s how to use adhesive effectively:

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Clean the Roof Surface: Ensure the roof surface is clean and dry. Remove any debris or dust.

  2. Apply the Adhesive: Use a brush or roller to apply a thin layer of adhesive. Cover the entire area where the felt will be placed.

  3. Position the Felt: Carefully roll out the felt, aligning it properly. Press it down firmly onto the adhesive.

  4. Smooth Out Bubbles: Use a broom or roller to smooth out any air bubbles. Ensure the felt is flat and even.

Tips for Using Adhesive:

  • Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from drying too quickly.

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the adhesive.

  • Use high-quality adhesive for the best results.

Using adhesive helps create a watertight seal. This method is especially useful for areas prone to leaks.

Nailing Techniques

Nailing is another effective way to secure roofing felt. It provides additional strength and stability. Here’s how to nail felt properly:

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Choose the Right Nails: Use galvanized roofing nails to prevent rusting. Make sure they are the correct length.

  2. Start at the Bottom: Begin nailing at the bottom edge of the roof. This ensures the felt remains in place as you work upwards.

  3. Nail Along the Edges: Place nails along the edges of the felt, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart.

  4. Nail the Overlaps: Ensure that any overlapping felt sections are securely nailed. This prevents water from seeping through.

Tips for Nailing Felt:

  • Use a hammer or a nail gun for quicker installation.

  • Be gentle to avoid tearing the felt.

  • Check for any missed spots and add extra nails if needed.

Nailing provides a secure hold, especially in windy areas. It adds an extra layer of protection to your garage roof.

Finishing Touches

After laying the felt on your garage roof, finish the job. These steps ensure a clean look and long-lasting protection. Two key tasks in this stage are trimming excess felt and sealing edges. Let's dive into each process to make your roof look flawless and durable.

Trimming Excess Felt

Start by trimming any excess felt hanging over the edges of the roof. Use a sharp utility knife for a clean cut. This step is crucial for a neat appearance and proper sealing.

Follow these steps:

  • Measure the overhanging felt carefully.

  • Mark the cut line using a chalk line or pencil.

  • Cut along the marked line with a sharp utility knife.

Make sure to cut smoothly and evenly to avoid jagged edges. Always cut away from your body to avoid injuries.

For corners and edges, consider using scissors for more precision. Proper trimming helps in achieving a neat finish and prepares the felt for the next step, sealing the edges.

Sealing Edges

Sealing the edges of the felt is essential for preventing water from seeping underneath. This step enhances the durability and weather resistance of your garage roof.

Here's how to seal the edges:

  1. Apply a generous amount of roofing adhesive to the edges.

  2. Press the felt firmly into the adhesive to ensure a strong bond.

  3. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles with a roller or brush.

Make sure the adhesive is spread evenly and covers all edges. Pay special attention to corners and overlapping sections as these are prone to leaks.

For an extra layer of protection, you can use roofing nails to secure the felt. Space the nails about 4-6 inches apart along the edges. This ensures the felt stays in place and withstands harsh weather conditions.

After sealing, allow the adhesive to dry completely. Check for any loose sections and reapply adhesive if necessary.

A man is actively working on a metal garage roof, demonstrating expertise in roofing techniques and safety measures.

Maintenance Tips

Felt roofing for a garage is a popular choice due to its durability and ease of installation. Regular maintenance ensures the roof stays in top shape for years. Below are some essential maintenance tips for felt roofing, focusing on regular inspections and repairing damage.


Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are crucial for the longevity of your felt garage roof. Inspect the roof at least twice a year to catch potential issues early. Follow these steps during your inspections:

  • Check for visible damage: Look for cracks, tears, or punctures in the felt.

  • Inspect the seams: Ensure all seams are intact and securely bonded.

  • Look for pooling water: Identify areas where water may be pooling, as this can lead to leaks.

  • Examine the edges: Ensure the edges of the felt are not lifting or peeling.

Repairing Damage

Repairing damage promptly is essential to prevent further issues. Small tears or holes can escalate if not addressed quickly. Here are steps to repair common problems:

  1. Clean the area: Remove any debris around the damaged spot.

  2. Cut a patch: Use a piece of felt larger than the damaged area.

  3. Apply adhesive: Use roof adhesive to secure the patch over the damage.

  4. Press firmly: Ensure the patch is firmly pressed down to bond with the existing felt.

For more extensive damage:

  • Replace entire sections: Sometimes, replacing whole sections is necessary if the damage is widespread.

  • Consult a professional: Large-scale repairs may require professional help to ensure proper installation and longevity.

Maintaining a felt garage roof ensures durability and extends its lifespan. Regular inspections and timely repairs are key to keeping your garage roof in top condition.


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Contact Us Today

Felting your garage roof can help it last much longer and keep it leak-free. At Bell Asphalt Co. in London, we want to make sure your roof is strong and weatherproof! Follow these easy steps to take care of your roof, and don't forget to keep up with regular maintenance to keep it in great shape for years to come.

If you need any help or have questions, feel free to contact Bell Asphalt Co. in London. We're here to make sure your garage roof stays in top condition!


Common Question About How to Felt a Garage Roof


What Materials Are Needed To Felt A Garage Roof?

To felt a garage roof, you need a few important materials. First, you’ll need roofing felt, which is a waterproof material that protects your roof. It comes in rolls and can be made from fiberglass or other strong materials. Pick the right kind for your weather and garage.

You'll need some tools: a utility knife to cut the felt, adhesive or nails to hold it down, and a roller or broom to smooth it. Don’t forget to wear gloves and goggles for safety!

With these items, you’ll be ready to fix your garage roof!


How Long Does Felting A Garage Roof Take?

The time to felt a garage roof depends on a few things. They are the roof size, the weather, and your experience. For most garages, it can take a few hours or up to a full day. If you’re working alone or have a big roof, it might take longer.

Before you start, make sure the roof is clean and dry. This will help you save time. If you’re new to this, it may take a bit more time, but once you're ready, putting the felt on is usually pretty easy!

Can I Felt A Garage Roof By Myself?

Yes, you can felt a garage roof by yourself, but you’ll need the right tools and a plan. Get a utility knife, a roller or brush for the glue, and a ladder if your garage is tall. Make sure to pick the right type of roofing felt for your roof.

Before you start, clean the roof and remove any old material. Lay the felt sheets, making sure to overlap them so there are no leaks. Use roofing glue to stick each sheet down. While you can do this alone, having someone help can make it easier, especially with big sheets or if you're high up. Be safe and take your time!


How Often Should You Replace Roof Felt?

You don’t need to replace roof felt on a set schedule. Good-quality felt can last 15 to 30 years if installed and maintained well. But, you should check your roof for problems like tears, water stains, or sagging.

If your roof shows signs of wear or is getting old, it might be time to replace the felt. Also, inspect your roof after storms to catch any issues early. There's no strict timeline for replacing roof felt. But, regular checks will help your roof last a long time.


How much does it cost to felt a garage roof?

The cost of felt roofing for a garage can change based on the size, type of felt, and whether you do it yourself or hire help. Materials usually cost between £2 and £5 per square foot. If you hire a contractor, labour can add £3 to £6 per square foot.

A one-car garage (about 200 sq. ft.) could cost £800 to £1,800. This includes materials and labour. Prices depend on your location, so getting quotes from professionals is a good idea. If you do it yourself, you’ll save on labor, but remember to include the cost of tools!

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