Background and Approach
A beautiful residential property in Bath, Somerset, recently underwent significant upgrades, including the addition of a stylish new orangery. As part of this project, the owners required a high-quality flat roof solution that would integrate seamlessly with the orangery and a newly fitted skylight, while delivering excellent thermal performance and long-term reliability.
Bath is world-renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture crafted from honey-coloured Bath limestone, a local oolitic limestone that gives the city its distinctive warm appearance and UNESCO World Heritage status. The new flat roof was designed to respect and complement this iconic limestone aesthetic while providing modern performance benefits. Strandek Flat Roofing was contracted to install a premium fibreglass (GRP) flat roof system. Strandek, specialists in fibreglass flat roofing since 1976, worked closely with the homeowners and contractors to ensure the installation complemented the new orangery extension and enhanced the property’s energy efficiency. The focus was on creating a durable, waterproof roof with superior insulation properties to help reduce heating and electricity bills in the UK’s variable climate.
This application note details the tailored installation processes, materials, and performance benefits, highlighting GRP’s suitability for modern residential extensions in historic settings like Bath where aesthetics, insulation, and minimal maintenance are key priorities.
Materials and System Description
The project utilised Strandek’s advanced GRP flat roofing systems, chosen for their seamless application, excellent thermal performance, and ability to accommodate complex details such as skylights and orangery integrations.
Ancillary components included pre-formed GRP flashings, custom edge trims, and seamless detailing around the skylight to ensure a fully watertight finish. The GRP materials create a monolithic, joint-free barrier that is highly resistant to UV degradation, thermal movement, and biological growth. With high-performance insulation integrated, the system delivers substantial improvements in thermal efficiency, helping to lower heating costs and reduce overall electricity bills for the property. Expected service life exceeds 30 years, with potential for up to 50 years depending on maintenance.
Installation Procedure
Installation was carried out by Strandek’s certified technicians, following comprehensive risk assessments and method statements. Work was carefully scheduled around the property’s ongoing use and the orangery construction programme to minimise disruption to the homeowners.
Key Installation Steps:
- Surface Preparation: Thorough survey and preparation of the roof substrate, ensuring compatibility with the new orangery and skylight structures.
- Substrate Enhancement: Installation of high-performance insulation and 18 mm OSB3 boards to create a stable, thermally efficient base.
- GRP Application: Application of resin primer, followed by chopped strand mat glass fibre embedded in catalysed resin. Layers were built up and rolled to eliminate air voids, creating a strong, seamless laminate.
- Flashings and Detailing: Custom GRP flashings and trims were fitted around the skylight, orangery junctions, and perimeter details for complete waterproofing.
- Finishing: Application of a UV-protective flow coat in a neutral tone chosen to harmonise with the surrounding Bath limestone, followed by full curing and rigorous quality inspections, including flood testing.
The entire process emphasised precision, safety, and attention to detail to deliver a flawless result that enhances the orangery’s functionality and appearance.
Performance and Benefits
The new fibreglass flat roof has transformed the orangery into a comfortable, energy-efficient space. Key benefits include:
- Superior Thermal Insulation: The high-performance insulation significantly reduces heat loss, leading to lower heating and electricity bills for the homeowners.
- Durability and Longevity: The seamless GRP system provides exceptional waterproofing and weather resistance, eliminating leaks and minimising future maintenance.
- Aesthetic Integration: The clean, modern finish complements the property’s limestone architecture and the new orangery extension.
- Minimal Disruption: Careful planning ensured the installation fitted smoothly alongside the orangery construction.
The installation is backed by a 10-year FCA-regulated insurance-backed guarantee and a 20-year Strandek workmanship guarantee, offering complete peace of mind.
These assurances reflect our proven track record – something we’ve been delivering for 50 years.
Contact us to find out more.
Conclusion
This fibreglass flat roof installation on a residential property in Bath, Somerset, demonstrates how Strandek’s GRP systems provide an ideal solution for contemporary extensions like orangeries in historic limestone settings. Combining outstanding thermal performance, watertight reliability, and beautiful aesthetics that respect Bath’s architectural heritage, the project has delivered long-term value and comfort for the homeowners.
For expert advice on flat roof solutions for your property in Bath, Bristol, or surrounding areas, contact Strandek Flat Roofing today.