What is the best system for a flat roof?

• Torch-on Felt: This affordable and quick-to-install flat roofing system offers good weather protection and reflects sunlight to reduce energy costs. However, it has a limited lifespan, requires regular maintenance, and can melt or look messy when repaired.
• EPDM Rubber Roof: Known for its durability and long lifespan, EPDM is a competitively priced, single-ply roofing system that can withstand foot traffic. However, it’s prone to piercing and requires extra precautions for condensation control and seam maintenance to prevent leaks.
• GRP Fiberglass: GRP is a robust, long-lasting option with an aesthetically pleasing finish and invisible repairs. While it’s easy to maintain, it’s one of the most expensive systems and can be unsuitable for covering large areas due to high costs.
• Considerations: When choosing a flat roofing system, think about factors such as cost, durability, ease of maintenance, and suitability for the size of your roof. Each system has pros and cons depending on the specific needs of the property.

Flat roofs are almost completely horizontal, dipping only slightly to allow rainwater to flow through the guttering to avoid flooding, and are suitable for use on both residential and commercial properties. Most modern flat roofs have a lifespan of about 20 years and are substantially cheaper than a pitched roof. There are several choices in flat roof material to ensure that you get the most suitable roofing for your requirements.

Torch on felt

This technique came about as an improvement on the previous mineral felt roofing used in the 1960s and 1970s. The previous technique involved hot bitumen and mineral felt being poured onto a roof and rolled flat. This left an unattractive finish with a lifespan as little as 10 years. These roofs were easily damaged by stones under the membrane causing punctures. The new system allows the material to be peeled off and stuck to the surface of the roof, producing an end product that is minimal and affordable.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Quick installation
• Provides good protection against bad weather
• Easy repairs
• Reflects the sun, keeping house temperature cooler during the summer, so can reduce energy costs

Cons:

• Can’t withstand heavy foot traffic
• Limited lifespan
• High temperatures can cause the surface to melt slightly, causing a disfigured look
• Repairs look messy and patchy
• Requires regular checks and maintenance

 

EPDM Rubber Roof

Introduced to the UK market several years ago, these roofs have become increasingly popular. Made up of a rubber compound, this material is single ply and installed in one complete layer. The layer is glued to the decking of the roof using a strong adhesive.

Pros:

• Long lifespan
• Competitively priced
• Can handle foot traffic
• Durable

Cons:

• Material isn’t very breathable – extra precautions will have to be taken to prevent condensation problems
• Can be pierced – sharp objects, or even birds’ beaks, can cut through the fabric
• Repairs look patchy
• Requires maintenance on the seams to prevent leaks
• Easily vandalized

GRP Fiberglass

Normally laid in one or two layers with a jointless finish and completed with factory made trims. The system is laid on timber boards that are glued at the joints. The whole decking is laid with a glass fibre matting and a basecoat of fibre resin, and completed with a top coat of resin.

Pros:

• Robust and very strong
• Long lasting
• Available in a wide range of colours
• Easy to repair and almost impossible to see repair patches

Cons:

• One of the most expensive options
• Not suitable for all roofing – large areas, for example, can be expensive to cover

Here at Abbey Roofing, we have a dedicated and skilled team of roofers with more than 20 years’ experience working in both the domestic and commercial roofing sectors.
We work hard all year round, carrying out emergency repairs and re-roofing, and take great pride in the reliable and quality service we deliver.

We offer a range of roofing services including; lead roofing, slate roofing, flat roofing, felt roofing, sheet metal roofing, emergency roof repairs, commercial roofing, new roof installations, gutter cleaning.

To customers in Hemel Hempstead, Watford, St Albans, Bedford, Slough, Milton Keynes, Watford, Barnet, Harpenden and beyond.

Why not contact Abbey Roofing for a free quote today, quality skilled tradesmen at great prices!