This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
What are the main Flat Roof Materials?
Different flat roof materials might have a noticeable impact on the durability and appearance of your roof solution. Apart from this, it could also have an effect on the cost of your project, as well the amount of work it’ll take to install. Thus, it is vital that you’re familiar with the various materials you can use on your property. The most popular options available to homeowners and businesses are as follows:
EPDM
Rubber has always been a common solution for flat roofing, and the synthetic material known as EPDM is no exception to this. It is available for both residential and commercial projects, and has a very impressive record as a waterproofing solution.
The simplicity in fitting EPDM is another significant advantage, as it saves you time and money compared to the installation of other flat roofing materials. The high-quality insulation you get with EPDM as well as its decade-spanning lifecycle mean that, despite being slightly pricier than other products, you should save money on your building in the long-term. Moreover, the frequent use of recycled rubber for EPDM makes it a more sustainable choice for your roofing solution.
Felt
In the UK, the main type of felt used on flat roofs is Bituminous felt. This is a type of sheeting that is used as an underlay beneath tiles, or it can be applied as a cover for a flat roof. It can be applied with either a blow torch (known as ‘torch-on felt’) or with a pour and roll method.
Once again, this material possesses excellent water-resistant qualities. In addition, it is easy to install for contractors, and repairs are comparably simple. Felt can have a variety of cap sheet colours as well, giving property owners more choice.
GRP Fibreglass
This might be one of the more expensive flat roofing materials, but fibreglass solutions make up for this in several ways. Firstly, due to the fact that this material consists of glass strands bonded together, fibreglass has no places to leak water (as it needs no seams, welds, or joints). Secondly, the high cost is redeemed through the lack of maintenance that fibreglass requires, and it can last 20-30 years. There’s also a stylistic advantage with this material, given the topcoat can be painted, and its flexible enough to fit most buildings regardless of size or shape.
Other Flat Roof Materials
These include:
- Build-Up Roofing (BUR) – A common option for over a century, this solution involves several layers and thus it has a lengthy installation time. It is typically used for projects where time is less limited.
- Liquid Flat Roofing – This recently viable solution is less common than the others. Yet the material does have its perks, such as being extremely weather-resistant and a lifespan of up to 25 years.
In all, we believe flat roofing options can be the right solution for many projects. If you agree, please check out our own high-quality, well-insulated material, the RubberBond Fleeceback. You can also get advice or a FREE survey and quote through our Enquiry Page.
