Grp fibreglass, EPDM Rubber, Built-up Felt or PVC single ply? There's just too much to choose when it comes to flat roofing coverings. So which is the best ? (Spoiler: It's not a simple choice!)
Epdm Rubber Roofs
Advantages Of Epdm Rubber Roofs
EPDM rubber roofs have become increasingly popular due to their high durability and longevity. This type of roofing offers a variety of advantages, including resistance to extreme temperatures and ultraviolet rays, and the fact that it has no seams to leak is a major advantage. With a projected lifespan in excess of 25 years, it’s lightweight, highly resistant to water and available in a wide range of colours.
Disadvantages Of Epdm Rubber Roofs
Despite the many advantages of EPDM rubber roofs, there are some drawbacks as well. One of the most significant is the higher cost. EPDM rubber roofs can be more difficult to install due to the complexity of the material which pushes up installation costs.
One potential drawback is their susceptibility to punctures and tears from hail or falling tree branches. As with all types of flat roofing materials, it is important to inspect an EPDM rubber roof regularly in order to detect any signs of damage and repair them promptly in order to prevent further damage from occurring.
Felt Roofing
Advantages Of Felt Roofing
Felt roofing is the traditional choice, normally built up in layers.Their main advantage is that relatively easy and quick to install, and there are a plethora of trades people capable of installing it, making it the cheaper option. This type of roofing material can be easily patched up in the event of a tear or rip with minimal disruption to surrounding area.
Disadvantages Of Felt Roofing
Felt roofing does have several drawbacks:
1. Durability: Felt roofs are not as durable as other materials such as EPDM or fibreglass membranes. As such, their life expectancy is usually shorter, in the range of 10 -20 years.
2. Weather Resistance: Felt roofs do not provide the same level of weather protection as other types of flat roofing. They are particularly vulnerable to heavy rain and snowfall, which can cause them to rot or become damaged over time.
3. Fire Resistance: Felt roofs are more flammable, due to their bitumen content.
4. Cost: Although the initial cost of felt roofing is relatively low, it may need to be replaced more often, resulting in higher long-term costs.
GRP Fibreglass Roofing
Advantages Of GRP Fibreglass Roofing
GRP fibreglass roofs are highly durable and can easily last 40 to 50 years with minimal maintenance or repairs needed. Their advantages include :
- Durability: The continuous “no seam” covering offers excellent protection against water ingress.
- Cost-effectiveness : GRP fibreglass roofs provide long-term value for money as they require minimal maintenance over their lifespan.
- Strength : These roofs are incredibly strong yet lightweight which make them ideal for a variety of structures including commercial buildings and residential homes.
- Energy efficiency: GRP fibreglass roofs offer excellent insulation properties.
Disadvantages Of Grp Fibreglass Roofing
The first drawback of GRP fibreglass is that it requires a lengthy and complex installation process. This means it comes with a higher price tag, but that of course, needs to be considered against it’s potential lifespan.
Installation needs to be carried out by specialist operatives, as there are many consequence to a poor installation : from pinholes to cracking.
GRP can be trickier to repair if damaged, than traditional flat roofing, but there are now GRP flat roof repair kits available for just about any scenario.
PVC Single Ply Roofing
Advantages Of PVC Single Ply Roofing
PVC single ply roofing offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive choice for many commercial, industrial and residential buildings.
- It’s resistant to UV light damage
- Rot proof and high ageing resistance
- Fire resistant - it’s actually self extinguishing
- Permaeable to vapour , preventing blisters or bubbles caused by moisture trapped during installation.
- Durability & flexibility
- Low maintenance
- Low temperature pliability, to minus 25°C without cracking
- Fast, easy installation
Disadvantages Of Pvc Single Ply Roofing
As PVC single ply roofing is a single layer roofing material, repairs can be tricky if the membrane is punctured.
While it’s expected average lifespan of 35 years compares very favourably to other methods, this must be weighed up against the upfront cost.
Next: Grp Fibreglass Roof Lifespans
