What is GRP?
GRP stands for ‘Glass Reinforced Plastic’ and is one of the most common Flat Roof solutions in the UK. Essentially, it is a material made from Polyester Resin reinforced with Glass Fibre Strands. To the untrained person, all you need to know is that this makes GRP strong, lightweight and fully waterproof. These properties are what have made it one of the most popular Flat Roof coverings nationwide and consequently means that there are lots of options on the market to consider when installing a GRP roof. This article will try and help you try and decide what is the most suitable GRP application for your roof.
Restec Flexi-Tec (The Most Flexible):
Unfortunately, more traditional GRP Resins have a rigid structure and can be susceptible to cracking overtime. This is due to the natural expansion/contraction of roofs during changes in temperatures. This is where Restec have reconfigured the GRP Market with their flexible fibreglass system, Flexitec. The elasticity and flex in the Resin massively reduces the issue of cracking, thus reducing costs on material and labour in the future when having to fix repairs. The Flexitec System comes with a Resin, Primer, Powder Hardener and Fibreglass reinforce matting, all used to install seamlessly onto your roof. This modern reinvention of the traditional GRP systems has reshaped the market and is definitely one to bear in mind when shopping around, especially as it is a system that will need minimal repairs once put down.
Cure-It (The Most Popular):
Probably the most recognisable out of all the GRP systems, Cure It is one of the leading GRP Resins on the market and for good reason. When purchasing a tin of Cure It you know you are getting a high quality GRP Fibreglass system, it has proven pedigree as a high specification roofing system through a comprehensive range of test accreditations to BS and to ETAG (European Technical Approval Guidelines) standards and real-world long term specifications. The benefit to using Cure It is that they offer a range of products and accessories to be used with their system which include trim adhesives, mixing buckets, reinforced bandages, Acetones, Winter/Summer Hardeners. All of these help to negate any possible issues that may arise overtime and keep your Flat Roof sturdy and watertight. You won’t find another GRP on the market with the extensive range of products that Cure It offer.
Stronghold (The Most Cost Effective):
If you’re looking for a low-cost GRP solution to your building or renovation project, look no further than the Stronghold Resin and Topcoat. Stronghold includes a 25-year product guarantee as well as being specially modified with fire retardants, giving it the highest possible fire rating certification (BS476-3: 2004 EXT F.AA). Tough, durable and easy to install, the low price point of Stronhghold makes it an appealing choice for many homeowners, Builders and Contractors.
Flexitec Kit Package (The most convenient):
For those that want a ready made pre-packaged GRP Solution then take a look at the Flexitec 10M2 Kit. Remove the fuss and stress from ordering by using these Kits that come with everything included to install the Flexitec system. Delivered in a ready to go package with all the measurements and quantities worked out for you, just order as many kits as you need for the requisite size of the area you are covering. One kit includes:
- 1 x Flexitec 2020 Resin Dark Grey (20kg)
- 1 x Flexitec Primer (2.5kg)
- 1 x Flexitec Powder Hardener (1kg)
- 1 x Restec 225g/m2 CSM (12m2)
- 1 x 4" Roller Frame
- 1 x 4" Solvent Resistant Roller Sleeve
- 1 x 7" Roller Frame
- 2 x 7" Solvent Resistant Roller Sleeve
- 2 x 50mm Paint Brush
- 2 x Restec Mixing Bucket
- 1 x Sand Paper
- 1 x Flexitec 2020 Mixing Bucket
If thinking about using GRP for your Flat Roof it is important to consider all the options available on the market. Whatever decision you make, it is of course essential that all these systems are installed correctly. All the GRP systems discussed are available on our website Roofing Outlet.