What is the shelf life for liquid applied roofing systems
Fibreglass roofing systems have gained popularity in the roofing sector due to their durability, versatility, and resistance to various environmental factors. Whether used in residential, commercial, or industrial applications, these roofing systems offer long-term protection and performance. However, the components which make up these systems do have a shelf life which needs to be factored into project planning. In this guide, we look at the different types of resin systems we supply and their related shelf lives.
What is Fibreglass Roofing?
Ok so just in case you don't know, Fibreglass Roofing also known as GRP (Which either stands for Glass Reinforce Plastics or Polymers) roofing is made by embedding a fibreglass reinforcement into a resin system and applying a final layer of resin to protect. The result is a lightweight, durable, and waterproof roofing material that can be moulded into various shapes and sizes. Fibreglass roofing is often used for flat or low-pitched roofs and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Fibreglass roofing systems are renowned for their longevity. When installed correctly and maintained properly, a fibreglass roof can last between 20 to 30 years, and in some cases, even longer. Several factors can influence the actual lifespan, including the quality of materials used, the installation process, environmental conditions, and regular maintenance.
The Shelf Life of Different Systems
Within the Fibreglass Roofing category, there are different resins and resin systems. Traditional GRP Roofing systems like Fibrelast use a polyester-based resin system while more advanced systems like Fibrecoat use a polyurethane-based resin, both of which have different properties. In this section, we look at the Fibreglass roofing systems that we provide including our Overcoat system.
Fibreglass roofing systems are renowned for their longevity. When installed correctly and maintained properly, a fibreglass roof can last between 20 to 30 years, and in some cases, even longer. Several factors can influence the actual lifespan, including the quality of materials used, the installation process, environmental conditions, and regular maintenance.
Fibrelast
The Fibrelast Roofing System is a traditional polyester-based system that's perfect for small to medium-sized roofing surfaces. The product is specifically engineered for flat roofing and includes increased flexibility to deal with thermal expansion and is fire retardant to meet current building regulations. The system comprises four main components including base resin, finishing topcoat, catalyst and fibreglass reinforcement.
3
Months
Fibrelast Resin System
The Fibrelast Base Resin is applied with the Fibremat Reinforcement to create the main laminate of the roof surface. Depending on how the materials are stored the product could last anywhere between 2-4 months. To maximise the product's shelf life the base resin needs to be stored in a cold dark environment.
3
Months
Fibrelast Topcoat System
The Fibrelast Topcoat System is the protective layer that covers the main roof section made up of the base resin and Fibremat reinforcement. It is still a polyester-based product so you will still need to add a catalyst for the product to cure and it shares the same shelf life as the base resin.
6
Months
Fibrelast Catalyst
Catalyst is used to activate the base resin and topcoat by accelerating the curing process. The product comes in three different curing speeds to allow for either hotter or colder conditions. Visit our Catalyst Guide for more information.
N/A
Fibremat Reinforcement
Fibremat is the fibreglass reinforcement that is used in conjunction with the Fibrelast base resin to create the main section of the fibreglass roof. This product doesn't have an expiry date although it needs to be stored in a cool dry environment for maximum performance. For more information on Fibremat and which weight you need to use, check out our Fibreglass Matting Guide.
Fibrecoat
A next-generation fibreglass roofing system, Fibrecoat can be applied to virtually any existing roof surface new or old and is the perfect choice for flat roofs of all sizes. The low-odour, styrene-free system doesn't need a catalyst to cure and is incredibly flexible doing away with the need for traditional expansion joints used with a standard GRP system.
12+
Months
Fibrecoat Resin System
The Fibrecoat Resin is used as both base resin and topcoat and requires no catalyst to cure making it safer and easier to apply. Depending on how the materials are stored the product could last up to 12 months from the date of manufacture. To maximise the product's shelf life the unopened resin needs to be stored in a cold dark environment.
12+
Months
Fibrecoat Primers
The range of Fibrecoat Primers has been developed to bond the main system to an existing roof surface. Each primer has its own set of unique properties and will cover virtually any roofing surface. All the primers in the range have a shelf life of over 12 months from the date of manufacture when stored in a cool dry place.
N/A
Fibremat Reinforcement
Fibremat is the fibreglass reinforcement that is used in conjunction with the Fibrecoat base resin to create the main section of the fibreglass roof. This product doesn't have an expiry date although it needs to be stored in a cool dry environment for maximum performance.
Overcoat
Overcoat is a high-performance flexible roofing system that provides instant waterproof protection for virtually any roofing surface including gutters, joints and seams. The product has a minimum shelf life of over 12 months when kept in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
12+
Months
Overcoat Resin System
The Fibrelast Base Resin is applied with the Fibremat Reinforcement to create the main laminate of the roof surface. Depending on how the materials are stored the product could last anywhere between 2-4 months. To maximise the product's shelf life the base resin needs to be stored in a cold dark environment.
12+
Months
Overcoat Primers
Overcoat has different primers allowing the system to bond to virtually any roofing surface, new or old. All the primers in the range have a shelf life of over 12 months from the date of manufacture when stored in a cool dry place.
Factors influencing the product's shelf life
To maximise the shelf life of fibreglass resins, topcoats, and catalysts, it is important to manage inventory by using older materials first and to store products under proper conditions. Maintaining a stable temperature and sealing containers properly after each use is key to preventing degradation. Regularly inspecting stored materials for signs of thickening, discolouration, or crystallisation is also essential to ensure they remain in good condition.
The shelf life of fibreglass resins, topcoats, primers and catalysts plays a vital role in the overall quality and durability of fibreglass roofing systems. By understanding and following proper storage guidelines, you can ensure these materials remain effective for their intended lifespan. This not only helps maintain the integrity of your roofing installations but also reduces waste and minimises costs by preventing the premature disposal of expired products.
