Are you tired of your leaky flat roof? Looking for a durable and long-lasting solution with minimal upkeep? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best solution.
Don’t panic! We’re here to break down the pros and cons of different flat roof materials and help you find the perfect fit for your property.
Monitoring your flat roof: Signs of trouble
Maybe you’ve purchased a property with a flat roof, or you’ve chosen to install one at home for some much-needed additional outdoor space.
Either way - when did you last have a thorough check for issues? A while ago, right?
Regular checks are so important to ensure the longevity and performance of your flat roof, but many of us put it off “until the weather improves” or “until the weekend”. But the weekend is never a quiet one, and the weather never improves – this is the UK after all.
It’s important to make time to check for the most common flat roof issues, such as:
Leaky ceilings or walls
Pooling water
Sagging or uneven surfaces
Visible cracks or tears
Blistering or bubbling
Excessive growth of vegetation
Discolouration
And if you notice any of these signs, don't ignore them!
Address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs, and contact a roofing professional for a thorough inspection and to discuss repair or replacement options.
Common flat roof materials
When choosing material for your flat roof, factors such as durability, cost, maintenance requirements, and the way it looks should all be considered. There are a variety of different methods and materials, but the most common ones you’ll find when researching are usually:
EPDM Rubber: Renowned for its exceptional durability (with a lifespan of more than 50 years if installed and maintained correctly!), flexibility, and resistance to harsh weather conditions EPDM is a popular choice for flat roofs thanks to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, UV rays, and chemicals.
Roofing Felt: A popular choice due to its affordability, efficient installation, and straightforward repair methods, but its durability lets it down, with moisture becoming trapped between the layers. Lasts approximately 10-20 years with proper maintenance.
GRP Roofing: Glass Reinforced Plastic roofing is a modern and increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial properties. It's known for its durability (between 30-50 years), low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness, but it can be prone to discolouration and can be noisy during heavy rain or hail.
Green Roofs: Green roofs are covered in vegetation, providing insulation, stormwater management, and additional environmental benefits. They also look great and can be used as an additional outdoor living space.
Rubber EPDM roofing: Our top choice for flat roofs
At Youngs, we’re big fans of rubber roofing, such as Flex R’s ClassicBond and ClassicBond Pro EPDM membrane. EPDM has gained significant popularity in recent years thanks to its:
Exceptional durability: Rubber roofing is highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall, and strong winds.
Superior waterproofing: Rubber roofing provides excellent waterproofing, protecting your home from leaks and moisture damage.
Low maintenance: Rubber roofs require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free option for homeowners and saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Energy efficiency: Rubber roofing systems can improve your home's energy efficiency by providing better insulation and reducing heat loss, leading to lower energy bills (hooray!) and a cosier home.
Environmental friendliness: Rubber roofing materials are often made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice. Good for the roof, good for the planet, good for the soul.
While EPDM may have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to some other options, its long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. The durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency of EPDM rubber provide significant savings over time.
Contact Youngs for expert advice
At Youngs, we specialise in providing high-quality roofing materials and expert installation services. Our team will help you choose the right roofing solution for your home, including the popular Flex R EPDM roofing systems, now in stock at all branches (Biddenden, Folkestone, and Dymchurch).
By choosing a rubber roofing system like ClassicBond or ClassicBond Pro EPDM, you can enjoy a durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient flat roof that will enhance the value and comfort of your home for decades to come.
Comments