Frequently Asked Questions

What is Glass Reinforced Plastic - "GRP"?
What is Polyester Resin?
How long does a GRP roof last?
What does it cost?
Is the work guaranteed?
What is the FMB Masterbond and Trustmark?
Does my existing roof have to be re-decked?
What is the appearance of a GRP laminate?
Can I paint "GRP"?

What is Glass Reinforced Plastic - "GRP"?
The glass is normally a mat of chopped glass fibres which is used to reinforce resin to make a structural "composite". This can be designed to suit almost any application.
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What is Polyester Resin?
There are a number of resins which may be used to bind the reinforcing glass together - for example, epoxies, polyurethanes, phenolics but polyesters are the most popular. This is because their properties can be easily modified, thus being easy to use at room temperature, and they are generally lower in cost than the alternative.
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How long does a GRP roof last?
A GRP Roof or gutter lining will remain virtually maintenance free for a period in excess of twenty five years. GRP roofs that have been protected from UV degradation by chippings on the gel surface should remain serviceable for considerably longer. After twenty five years, a new gel surface can be applied to roofs and gutter linings extending life expectancy even further (subject to specific site conditions). Unprotected GRP rooflights are still in use forty years after installation.
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What does it cost?
Compared to traditional roofing materials (felt and bitumen based products) fibreglass materials are more expensive although this additional cost is offset by vastly increased life expectancy. In many cases GRP is a cheaper alternative to traditional materials due to faster installation and the reduced need to strip out existing materials, roof sheets/tiles or glazing bars etc. The price per roof or gutter lining is often dictated by site conditions, please contact us for further information and budget pricing.
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Is the work guaranteed?
All of our work is guaranteed. Topseal guarantee their roofing system for 20 years. Please contact us for specific information.
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What is the FMB Masterbond and Trustmark?
FMB builders work to a strict code of practice which they commit to every year when they renew their membership. The code of practice covers their relationship with customers throughout the building process. MasterBond is Government endorsed through the TrustMark scheme and recognised by local authorities throughout the UK for grant aided and improvement works.
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Does my existing roof have to be re-decked?
Providing the existing deck is in serviceable condition it is not always necessary re-deck the roof. An initial site survey should establish whether the existing deck should be replaced as per building regulations.
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What is the appearance of a GRP laminate?
The surface finish and colour of a "GRP" laminate can be modified to simulate almost any appearance: shiny or matt, textured or smooth, any colour - including translucent finishes or metallic. Resins are already used commercially to manufacture synthetic marble, onyx, granite and any stone imaginable. "GRP" is also used for translucent roof lights and can be tinted to give the appearance of stained glass.
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Can I paint "GRP"?
YES but the surface will need to be clean and abraded before the paint will properly adhere to the surface.
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