Turn back the clocks by 20 years and traditional felt was the only flat roofing material that most people were familiar with. Fast forward to the modern-day and there are a number of high-quality, Longer lasting roofing systems on the market. The sheer number of flat roof options available can make the process of finding the best roofing system for your home difficult. The most modern flat roofing system has its own set of unique advantages and drawbacks, yet all claim to be the best flat roofing system on the market.
The truth is that no one flat roofing system can ever be called "the best" as each has its own unique set of features, benefits and methods of installation. Consequently, the real question you should be asking, is not which flat roofing system is the best, but rather which is best for you.
To help you answer this question we have put together a list of key benefits and limitations for some of the most popular flat roofing systems, with some expert advice as to why they may be the best choice for you.
EPDM Rubber Roofing
Best for ease of installation and longevity
Pros:
- 50 Year Life Expectancy
- Easy & Quick to install
- Supplied in one sheet
- Low Maintenance & Long-lasting
Cons:
- Not suitable for foot traffic
- Not ideal for complicated roofs
- Larger membranes can be heavy and difficult to handle
EPDM rubber roofing is now one of the UK's leading flat roof systems. Easy to install and with a 50-year life expectancy means these single-ply membranes are the ideal choice for domestic and commercial properties.
GRP Fibreglass Roofing
Best for durability & a seamless contemporary look
Pros:
- Tough & impact resistant finish
- Seamless contemporary look
- Suitable for foot traffic
Cons:
- Installation is not DIY friendly
- Installation is very weather dependant
- Doesn't deal with structural movement well due to Rigidity
Fibreglass roofs are strong, robust and durable. Supplied in component form, the liquids are applied over a reinforcement layer of chopped strand matting. The resulting seamless and stunning roof is a favourite amongst homeowners and tradesmen alike.
Polyurethane Liquid Roofing
Best for overlaying existing felt
Pros:
- Single coat application
- High tensile & tear strength
- No mixing required
Cons
- Not the best looking finish
- Unknown life expectancy
Polyurethane liquid systems are now becoming more and more popular thanks to their ability to be installed straight over an existing roof surface like felt or GRP. They are a no-nonsense straight out of the tin solution which is also suitable for use during the winter months when the temperatures drop.
Liquid Repair Systems
Best for a cheap quick fix
Pros:
- Instant waterproof protection
- Can be applied in damp conditions
- Laid onto most roof surfaces
Cons:
- Only a short term fix
Supplied in single tin form these are easy and quick to apply and ideal for when you just need to get that leak fixed as quickly as possible and on a budget. These repair liquids are cold applied and fibre reinforced. They can be used in most weather conditions and laid onto many roof surfaces.
At RoofDepot we understand how hard it can be to find the right roofing system for your specific needs. With so much conflicting information online, things can quickly become confusing. If you would like some impartial, honest advice feel free to give us a call on 024 7670 7700. One of our specialist team members will review your specific requirements and advise on the most suitable roofing option for you.