A professionally installed torch-on warm deck flat roof in Paignton

Warm Deck Flat Roofing in Paignton & Torbay

We are specialists in high-performance, torch-on applied warm deck systems that meet all UK Building Regulations and save you money.

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The Modern Solution to Inefficient Flat Roofs

Is your extension freezing cold? Do you see damp patches on the ceiling of your garage? The problem is likely your old "cold deck" flat roof. Many flat roofs, especially on older extensions and garages in the Torbay area, were built with insulation *between* the ceiling joists. This leaves the roof structure cold, making it a magnet for condensation, which leads to damp, mould, and eventually structural rot.

The solution is a **Warm Deck** (or "Warm Roof") construction. A warm deck is the modern, compliant standard for all new and replacement flat roofs over habitable spaces.

The key is simple: the insulation is placed *above* the structural roof deck. This keeps the entire roof structure "warm" (close to your home's internal temperature), moving the 'dew point' (where moisture condenses) outside the building entirely. This completely eliminates the risk of condensation and radically improves thermal efficiency.

[Image of Warm Deck vs Cold Deck roof diagram] Diagram comparing warm deck (insulation above) vs cold deck (insulation below)

Warm Deck vs. Cold Deck: The Technical Difference

Understanding why a warm deck is superior is key to protecting your property. Here’s a clear comparison.

Warm Deck (The Right Way)

  • Insulation: Placed *ABOVE* the structural deck and joists.
  • Vapour Layer (VCL): Placed *UNDER* the insulation, on top of the deck.
  • Ventilation: **NOT REQUIRED.** This is a huge benefit, as it creates a simple, sealed, and reliable system.
  • Result: The entire roof structure is kept warm and dry, eliminating condensation. This gives you maximum thermal efficiency and structural protection.

Cold Deck (The Old Way)

  • Insulation: Placed *BETWEEN* the joists, under the deck.
  • Vapour Barrier: Placed above the plasterboard (if at all).
  • Ventilation: **Requires complex cross-ventilation** (a 50mm air gap) above the insulation to try and remove moisture. This system is notoriously difficult to build correctly and often fails.
  • Result: The deck and joists are cold, leading to a high risk of interstitial condensation, damp, and timber rot.

Meeting UK Building Regulations (Part L)

As roofing professionals, we ensure your new roof isn't just waterproof, but fully compliant with the law. **Part L (Conservation of fuel and power)** of the UK Building Regulations mandates specific thermal efficiency levels for all new roofs and most replacement roofs (where >50% is replaced) over habitable spaces.

This efficiency is measured in a **U-value** (W/m²K) – a measure of heat loss, where a *lower* number is better. As of 2025, a replacement flat roof must achieve a U-value of **0.18 W/m²K** or lower.

A professionally installed warm deck from Raven Roofing is the most reliable and cost-effective way to meet and exceed these strict U-value requirements, guaranteeing compliance and future-proofing your home.

Guaranteed Compliance

We handle all the technical calculations to ensure your roof meets Part L standards.

Required U-Value
0.18 W/m²K
(or lower)

Our High-Performance Torch-On Warm Deck System

A warm deck is a multi-layer system. As torch-on felt specialists, we use only premium, proven materials to build your roof. Here is our typical system build-up:

1

Structural Deck

Your existing (or new) timber deck (e.g., OSB3 or Plywood) is inspected and prepared.

2

Vapour Control Layer

A dedicated torch-on or self-adhesive membrane that completely stops warm, moist air from inside your home from entering the roof structure.

3

Rigid Insulation

High-density PIR insulation boards (e.g., Kingspan, Celotex) are securely fixed. Thickness (typically 120mm+) is calculated to meet Part L regs.

4

Torch-On Underlay

A high-performance felt underlay is torch-applied directly to the insulation boards, creating a waterproof base.

5

Torch-On Cap Sheet

The final layer. A robust, mineral-finish torch-on felt with UV protection and a 15-25 year guarantee, expertly sealed at all details.

We use systems from leading manufacturers to ensure quality and durability.

Key Benefits of a Warm Deck Roof

Investing in a warm deck is an investment in your property's comfort, efficiency, and long-term health.

Lower Energy Bills

The superior insulation layer dramatically reduces heat loss, keeping your home warmer in winter and cutting your heating costs.

Eliminates Condensation Risk

By keeping the structure warm, condensation cannot form within the roof, protecting your timbers from damp, mould, and costly structural rot.

Building Regulation Compliant

Our warm deck installations meet or exceed the thermal performance requirements of Part L, giving you full peace of mind.

Increased Comfort

Turns cold, damp spaces (like extensions or garages) into comfortable, usable parts of your home, all year round.

Long-Term Durability

Our proven torch-on felt systems are designed to last, with manufacturer guarantees of 15-25 years.

Adds Property Value

A compliant, warm, and dry roof is a major selling point, adding tangible value to your property.

Our Professional Installation Process

We show our expertise through a meticulous, transparent, and safe process, from start to finish.

  1. 1. Free Survey & Quote

    We visit your Paignton or Torbay property to assess your existing roof, take measurements, and discuss your needs. We provide a detailed, fixed-price quote with no obligation.

  2. 2. Strip & Prepare

    We safely remove all layers of your old roof covering. We then thoroughly inspect the timber deck structure, repairing or replacing any rotted timbers as necessary.

    Preparing the new structural timber deck for a warm roof installation

  3. 3. Lay Vapour Barrier (VCL)

    We apply the high-performance Vapour Control Layer to the deck, sealing all joints to create an airtight and vapour-tight barrier.

  4. 4. Fix Insulation

    We securely fix the rigid PIR insulation boards (e.g., 120mm or thicker) to the deck, ensuring a tight fit with no gaps to maximise thermal performance.

  5. 5. Apply Torch-On Felt System

    Our specialist team expertly torch-applies the multi-layer felt system (underlay and mineral cap sheet), ensuring all details, upstands, and drip edges are perfectly sealed for a 100% waterproof finish.

  6. 6. Tidy & Guarantee

    We conduct a final inspection, clean the entire site, remove all waste, and leave your property tidy. You are then provided with your written guarantee for the work.

Your Warm Deck Questions Answered

Initially, a warm deck roof is more expensive than a basic cold deck due to the high-performance insulation and vapour control layers. However, the long-term energy savings and prevention of costly rot damage make it a far better investment. For a typical single garage (approx. 18m²), the savings on heating and future repairs easily outweigh the upfront cost. We provide a detailed, fixed-price quote after our free survey.

If your garage is attached to your home or is heated, it is considered a 'habitable space' and any replacement roof must comply with Part L of the Building Regulations. If your garage is detached and unheated, the regulations do not strictly apply. However, we strongly recommend a warm deck installation anyway to prevent condensation and protect your car, tools, and stored items from damp and mould.

Installation time depends on the size and complexity of the roof. A standard single garage roof replacement can typically be stripped, insulated, and fully weatherproofed in 2-3 days, weather permitting.

Our high-performance torch-on felt systems are exceptionally durable and come with long manufacturer-backed guarantees, typically ranging from 15 to 25 years, giving you complete peace of mind.

Yes. In the hands of trained and experienced professionals, it is an extremely safe and reliable method. Raven Roofing Services is fully insured and our team adheres to all modern health and safety protocols and hot-work best practices to ensure your property is protected throughout the installation.

Raven Roofing Services Logo

About Raven Roofing Services

Raven Roofing Services is a specialist flat roofing contractor based in Paignton, Torbay. With over 15 years of experience, we specialise in high-performance torch-on felt systems, including fully compliant warm deck roofs for extensions, garages, and dormers. We are fully insured, all work is guaranteed, and we pride ourselves on professional, reliable service across South Devon.

Get Your Free Quote for a Warm, Compliant & Durable Flat Roof

Don't risk condensation or high energy bills. Contact Raven Roofing Services today for your free, no-obligation survey in Paignton, Torquay, or anywhere in South Devon.

Call Us Now: 07460 250171 Request Your Free Quote Online