The Pros and Cons of EPDM Roofing
If you want to upgrade your old roof to a more durable, new finish, you may have considered EPDM. EPDM is a type of synthetic rubber that can provide a more energy efficient and durable material to replace a worn out, old roof. This increasingly popular material can offer a straightforward solution, but before you make a final purchase decision, it is important that you understand both the pros and cons of EPDM roofing.
The Pros
EPDM roofing offers some fantastic benefits in a variety of applications, particularly compared to other roofing materials. These include:
- Long Lasting & Low Maintenance: EPDM is leaps and bounds ahead of many traditional roofing materials, such as felt. This rubber roofing can be used in extreme conditions to provide a reliable and durable roof that can last between thirty and fifty years. While felt flat roofs can accumulate moss and algae, synthetic rubber will not support moss growth, so you can avoid the problems of moss intrusion causing splitting and leaks.
- A Greener Option: EPDM is made using recycled materials, which makes it a greener option compared to some alternative roofing materials. EPDM systems are also BBA Certified to provide assurance that the product is made to the highest quality standards.
- Custom Solutions: EPDM membranes can be cut to the exact specifications for the fit of your roof, including the necessary overhang to facilitate an easy installation. Having your roofing material cut to size allows a standard roof to be installed with one piece of membrane to minimise the risks of leakage along seams.
- Easy Damage Repair: Repairing any damage to a EPDM roof is very easy. The damaged surface will need to be thoroughly clean to prevent interruption of the bonding process. The surface will need to be primed before flashing tape is used to cover the damage completely. This can eliminate much of the stress of performing repairs.
- No Cracking, Rotting or Blistering: Unlike many roofing materials, the natural properties of EPDM will mean that once installed, the product will be resistant to cracks, blistering and rotting completely.
The Cons
Although EPDM roofing can offer some fantastic benefits, you should be aware of the potential cons. These include:
- Potential Complications: Unfortunately, the installation for your roof may not be straightforward and simple. If you have a completely flat roof with no obstacles, it is likely to be relatively easy, but this is not the typical scenario. Your roof is likely to have chimneys vents or even lanterns that will require the EPDM material to be cut to shape and then sealed with flashing tape to ensure water tightness. For this reason, it is vital to rely on an experienced professional who can perform a complete installation to eliminate the risk of leaks.
- Potential for Damage: Although EPDM is exceptionally durable, it is not indestructible. Falling objects such as storm debris and tree branches or foot traffic have the potential to tear the membrane. While this can be easily repaired, it is crucial to watch out for any damage to ensure that your roof remains watertight. Additionally, although there is a potential for damage, you can reduce this risk by choosing a thicker membrane, but this will come at a higher price.
- You Need the Right Installer: While rubber roofing has been around for decades, it is still a relatively new product compared to other materials. This means that you need the right installer to carry out your roofing project. Fortunately, our recommended professionals have vast experience in EPDM roofing to ensure that your roof is fully watertight and can protect your home for many years to come.
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Recent Reviews About The Roofers
Michael was there when I needed my roof fixed, he came round in short notice gave me a price and was there fixing the leak whilst I was sleeping after my nightshift, when I awoke the job was done, I hope Michael will be there for me again if I need him in the future. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family. He is a good and reliable honest tradesman.
Steve
Cannot fault the work done on the roof. The men who carried out our roof repair and maintenance did so to a very high standard.
Neil Mousley
Warren did a super job for me, sorting out my broken tile and gutters quickly and without fuss. Wouldn't hesitate to use again, thank you.
Lesley R
Warren responded very quickly, was able to come the same day to take a look at and eventually repair a leaky roof. Very knowledgable and professional. And the leak is fixed!
Diane
Paul Williams got in touch when he said he would, gave the quote and did the job within reasonable time, somewhat set back by the weather. He was very easy to deal with and responded immediately to my emails. Full marks for that! I will use him again if I have a problem.
Hedli Tanner
Thoroughly recommend Paul. Contacted Paul after another roofer left us with a leaking flat roof and was unable to resolve the issue. Paul replaced the flat roof and no more leak. Would definitely use him again
Jennifer Simmonds
5 tiles replaced and gutter work including facias and gutter cleaning. Michael from MK maintenance carried out some work on my mum’s house done a great job and would highly recommend very clean and tidy and we would definitely use for further work and to recommend to family and friends thanks.
Michael Lorefice
Mike did a great job cleaned up well after and disposed of all the rubbish. Will use again and would recommend him to anyone.
Mark
We had worked carried out last year that was excellent by Micheal. He was very polite, tidy and reliable. Had a small problem and he came straight out and corrected it. Would definitely recommend.
Rosie
Michael was quick to investigate and identify the source of my leak and resolved the issue promptly for a very fair price. He was really easy to talk to and I'd highly recommend him to others looking to get roofing work completed!
Alex
RFR made the time to come out and inspect the bay roof which had leaked in the previous night following a heavy storm. He explained that it needed a repair not a replacement and set to work straight away. They explained very clearly what needed doing and the the cost involved, which was very reasonable. We were very relieved to say the least, having assumed the roof might need a very costly replacement. We would have been none the wiser had someone confirmed our worse fears. RFR were very honest and helpful and even troubled to advise us on how to make good the damage to the inside decoration. We would not hesitate to use RFR again and can recommend him without reservation.
Andrew
Saved me from a real emergency. Great care from start to finish. Would highly recommend.
Hana Ellis
Paul and his team did a first class job after we had been let down by other people. Someone who turns up and does what he says he’ll do. I have no hesitation in recommending this company for any roof repairs.
Tony Slatter
Michael is very knowledgeable and his advice was invaluable in deciding the best option to repair my ridge tiles on my roof. His quote was very competitive and the standard of his work was very high, moreover he ensured that any mess was tidied up and taken away for disposal. I have not hesitation in recomending MK Maintenance.
Raymond Tully
Good service kept us informed from start to finish roofers on time and polite
Kenneth Swan
Excellent roofer
Mary
Warren was so professional and helpful. Warren put right our guttering that was done so poorly by a different company. We are extremely happy with the service and wouldn't hesitate to employ him again for future roofing work. Thank you.
Mrs sharon m Brown
Paul Williams responded immediately and visited to survey the job and explained what was required - very friendly chap. A week later I received a quote. My inclination is to take up Paul’s quote but I am ‘still’ waiting for other quotes from other companies before committing myself.
Ray Pinner
Called on Monday afternoon, Toby came out the next morning and my roof leak was sorted in the afternoon by Mark and Shaun, Thankyou guys for such great service and the price was good too.
Ashley Davis
Michael did a fantastic job repairing my roof and replacing guttering. Friendly, reliable and advised me on any further work that needed to be done. He will be coming back to repair my chimney. He also worked neatly and cleaned up any debris from the work. Would absolutely recommend Michael to friends and colleagues.
Suzanne
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