Overlay & Walkway Systems

Roof Overlay Systems

A roof overlay is a method of renewing a flat roof by installing a new waterproof membrane directly over the existing roofing material, rather than stripping everything back to the deck. When the existing roof structure is sound and the deck is in good condition, an overlay can be an extremely effective and economical way to restore full waterproof protection and add many more years of service life to the roof.

At Henleys Roofing Ltd, we carry out detailed inspections before recommending an overlay. We check the condition of the existing membrane, assess whether there is any trapped moisture within the build-up, examine the state of the timber or concrete deck beneath, and verify that the roof drainage is functioning correctly. An overlay is only appropriate when the underlying structure is sound – we will always be honest with you if a full strip and re-cover is the better option.

When conditions are right, however, an overlay delivers significant advantages. By retaining the existing roof covering, you avoid the cost and disruption of a full strip. There is far less waste sent to landfill, the work can typically be completed more quickly, and the building below remains better protected during the installation because the existing membrane stays in place as an additional waterproof layer throughout the process.

Benefits of a Roof Overlay

Overlays have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Property owners and facilities managers are recognising the practical and financial benefits that a well-executed overlay system can deliver:

• Reduced Cost – Eliminating the strip-out phase significantly reduces labour and disposal costs, often making an overlay 30–40% cheaper than a full replacement.
• Less Disruption – Because the existing roof stays in place, there is minimal exposure of the building interior. This is particularly important for occupied commercial buildings, schools and healthcare facilities.
• Faster Installation – Without the need to strip, prepare and re-board the deck, overlay projects can typically be completed in a fraction of the time required for a full re-roof.
• Environmental Responsibility – Retaining the existing materials dramatically reduces the amount of waste generated by the project. This supports sustainability goals and can contribute to BREEAM or environmental accreditation targets.
• Enhanced Insulation – An overlay provides the opportunity to add a new layer of insulation above the existing build-up, improving the thermal performance of the roof and helping the building meet current Building Regulations for energy efficiency.
• Proven Performance – Overlay systems from leading manufacturers carry the same guarantees as new-build installations, giving you complete confidence in the long-term performance of your roof.

Walkway Systems for Safe Roof Access

Flat roofs often need to be accessed for routine maintenance, inspections, cleaning of gutters and outlets, servicing of rooftop plant and equipment, or simply to reach other areas of the building. Without a dedicated walkway system, foot traffic can cause significant damage to the waterproof membrane over time, leading to premature failure and costly repairs.

Henleys Roofing Ltd install a range of purpose-built walkway systems designed to protect the roof membrane while providing a safe, slip-resistant surface for pedestrians. Our walkway installations are suitable for a wide variety of applications, from simple access routes to plant rooms and roof hatches, through to more extensive walkway networks on larger commercial buildings.

The walkway systems we install are engineered to distribute foot traffic loads evenly across the roof surface, preventing the point loading that causes indentations and membrane damage. They feature anti-slip surfaces for safe use in wet conditions and are available in a range of colours for clear demarcation of safe access routes. All of our walkway installations are designed to be compatible with the underlying roofing system and will not compromise the waterproof integrity of the membrane.

Applications for Walkway Systems

We have installed walkway systems across a wide range of commercial and industrial properties. Common applications include:

• Access routes to rooftop plant rooms, air conditioning units and mechanical equipment
• Paths to roof hatches, access ladders and safety equipment
• Perimeter walkways for regular gutter and drainage maintenance
• Designated routes across green roofs and roof terrace areas
• High-traffic zones on commercial buildings with frequent maintenance requirements

Whether you need a simple overlay to extend the life of an ageing flat roof or a comprehensive walkway system to protect a new installation, Henleys Roofing Ltd have the experience and expertise to deliver a solution that works. Contact us today to arrange a free site survey and quotation.