Durable asphalt roofing for London homes

The lifespan of asphalt roofing depends on the overall quality of the product. Here at Pimlico Plumbers, our asphalt roofing comes with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee, but with proper maintenance, it can last up to 30 years.

Yes, depending on the condition of the roof, asphalt roofing can be applied on top of the existing roof which can save time on installation.

Yes, you can install a rubber roof, like EPDM, over the top of an existing asphalt roof. However, you need sufficient insulation or decking between the two materials, as the rubber shouldn’t sit directly on the asphalt.

Asphalt is a popular roofing material because it provides a strong, waterproof covering and can be particularly suitable for flat and low-pitched roofs. It can also be repaired and maintained, helping to extend the life of the roof.

Correct preparation, detailing, and installation are essential to achieving a watertight and durable asphalt roof. Particular attention should be paid to areas such as edges, abutments, outlets, penetrations and junctions with other parts of the building.

The condition of the existing roof should be assessed to determine whether localised repairs are appropriate or whether the roof has reached the end of its serviceable life and requires replacement.

A professional inspection can help establish the most suitable solution.

The simplest way to clean an asphalt roof is with your garden hose. Pressure washing and harsh chemicals can damage your roof and guttering, so stick to low-pressure cleaning methods to remove any moss or debris.

While asphalt itself is made from petroleum based products, asphalt roofing can be reused and recycled, reducing landfill waste.

Ordinary roof repairs may not require planning permission, but changing the roof covering, appearance, or construction can require permission in certain circumstances.

Listed buildings and properties affected by conservation-area controls require particular care. Always check with your local planning authority before starting work if you are unsure.

Asphalt may be an appropriate roof covering for a listed building where it is compatible with the existing roof and the building’s historic character. However, changing the type of roof covering on a listed building can require Listed Building Consent.

It is important to check with the local planning authority or Conservation Officer before starting work. Historic England advises obtaining appropriate professional advice before re-covering the roof of an older or listed building.

Yes, asphalt can be suitable for some older and historic buildings, particularly where asphalt or bituminous roofing is already part of the building’s construction or where it is considered appropriate for the roof’s character and appearance.

For historic properties, the existing roof covering and the significance of the building should always be considered before replacing or repairing the roof covering.

Asphalt can be suitable for buildings within conservation areas, but the suitability of the material will depend on the individual property, its existing roof covering and the requirements of the local planning authority.

Conservation areas can have additional planning controls, including Article 4 Directions, which can affect alterations that might otherwise be permitted development. It is therefore advisable to check with the local authority before changing a roof covering.

Before replacing the roof covering, check with your local planning authority or Conservation Officer to establish whether planning permission or Listed Building Consent is required.

For listed buildings, unauthorised works that affect the building’s special architectural or historic interest can be an offence, so it is important to obtain the correct advice before work begins.

Asphalt is an established roofing material and can be an appropriate choice for certain historic and heritage buildings, particularly where asphalt is the existing or historically appropriate covering.

However, there is no general rule that asphalt must be used on listed buildings or in conservation areas. Local planning policies and the individual building’s historic character will determine what materials may be acceptable. In some cases, retaining or replicating the existing roof covering will be preferred.

Where an existing asphalt roof needs replacing, using a compatible asphalt covering can often help retain the existing appearance and character of the building. On older or historic properties, the existing roof should be assessed before the covering is removed.