Flat roofs on Newhaven extensions, garages and outbuildings require specification appropriate to local conditions. We install GRP fibreglass and EPDM rubber flat roofing to a standard that lasts 30-40 years in this climate.
Industrial particulate from the port settles on north-facing roof slopes, creating a substrate for accelerated lichen and moss colonisation. The flat roofs on Newhaven's extensions, garages and outbuildings require the right material specification for local conditions. We install GRP as our first choice in exposed positions.
Port town with combination of Channel salt exposure and industrial particulate from the ferry terminal and cross-Channel trade. The unique combination of maritime salt and industrial pollution creates some of the most aggressive surface degradation conditions in the county. River Ouse tidal influence raises flood-level humidity. Correct fall and drainage specification is critical in Newhaven's rainfall pattern. We survey the existing structure, assess drainage routes, and specify falls that clear the roof surface within 24 hours of rainfall stopping.
We always strip to the deck before installation. Common findings on Newhaven properties: saturated OSB or plywood deck from years of felt failure; joist rot from sustained moisture; inadequate insulation. We document all findings before quoting for extra work — never proceed without your agreement.
A GRP flat roof in Newhaven requires minimal maintenance — an annual inspection and clearing of any debris from outlets. EPDM requires lap joint inspection every 2-3 years in East Sussex conditions. We carry out free annual inspections for all flat roofing customers for the first 5 years after installation.
| GRP fibreglass (per sqm installed) | £70 - £90 |
| EPDM rubber (per sqm installed) | £55 - £75 |
| Kitchen extension (20-25 sqm) | £1,400 - £2,250 |
| Garage (20-30 sqm) | £1,400 - £2,700 |
| Larger area (40-60 sqm) | £2,800 - £5,400 |
“Old felt roof on the extension had been leaking for two years. GRP installed in a day and a half. Looks completely different and I have no doubt it will outlast everything else on the property.”
“Replaced the garage felt with GRP. Quick, tidy and they found some deck rot I wasn't aware of — fixed it and showed me before proceeding. Honest job.”
“Third flat roof replacement in 30 years on the same extension. Went with GRP this time on their advice. Should be the last time I ever need to do it.”
Victorian harbour town terraces on the High Street and Fort Road, post-war estate housing in the Denton Island and Meeching areas. Victorian clay tile in the harbour area, concrete interlocking on post-war estates. Industrial atmosphere accelerates biological growth on all surfaces..
Port town with combined Channel salt and industrial particulate from the ferry terminal. Some of the most aggressive surface corrosion conditions in East Sussex..
The combination of maritime salt and port industrial particulate creates lead corrosion rates faster than any other East Sussex coastal location. Code 5 lead is the minimum specification for all Newhaven positions..
Pricing note: Lead replacement should use code 5 specification in Newhaven — the additional cost versus code 4 is modest but the service life difference is significant..
Every job follows the same clear process — no surprises, no hidden costs, full communication throughout.
We inspect the existing membrane, check drainage falls, assess the deck condition and identify any structural issues before quoting.
All existing felt or membrane stripped. Deck inspected thoroughly — any rot or saturation documented and quoted for before work proceeds.
Deck repaired or replaced where needed. Any drainage issues corrected. Falls assessed and improved where possible.
New membrane installed to manufacturer specification. GRP: full lamination across the entire deck as a single membrane. All upstands, outlets and penetrations correctly detailed.
10-year written workmanship guarantee issued. Free annual inspection for the first 5 years after installation.
GRP fibreglass is our recommendation for most Newhaven properties. It forms a seamless, jointless membrane with no lap joints to fail, resists UV well, and has an expected life of 30-40 years. EPDM is suitable for sheltered positions. Traditional felt is not recommended for East Sussex conditions.
GRP fibreglass is £70-90 per sqm installed. A typical kitchen extension (20-25 sqm) costs £1,400-£2,250. A double garage (40 sqm) costs £2,800-£3,600. All prices include stripping the old felt and debris disposal.
GRP fibreglass correctly installed lasts 30-40 years in East Sussex conditions. EPDM lasts 20-30 years. Traditional felt lasts 8-12 years. The significant lifespan difference justifies the higher upfront cost of GRP for most customers.
Replacing a flat roof with the same material and specification is permitted development. Changing the roof type (e.g. adding a raised parapet or changing the drainage system significantly) may require planning approval. We advise on this during the free survey.
Yes — this is the most common flat roofing job we carry out. We strip all existing felt, inspect and repair the deck if needed, and install a GRP system directly over the existing structure in most cases.
10-year written workmanship guarantee on all GRP and EPDM installations. The GRP material itself carries a manufacturer guarantee of 25 years.
We cover Newhaven and the surrounding area including Seaford, Lewes, Peacehaven. Call 01273 973 996 to arrange a free survey.
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