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
Friendly and helpful. Kept to appointment arranged. Quoted for work required. Seems very reasonable.
Clarke
Warren was very helpful, knowledgeable and efficient in helping with my roof problem . He arrived same day and was a very reasonable price. Can highly recommend!
Gary Rampton
Paul and his team did an excellent job on our roof repairing storm damage and fitting dry ridge and verge systems. He is very knowledgeable and uses top quality materials. He is also friendly and polite. I would have no hesitation in recommending him to friends and family.
Andrew S.
Mark did a great job and handled everything professionally- wasn’t the cheapest but price was reasonable . A proper quote rather than a verbal estimate. Will definitely definitely use him again.
Michael Lee
I made contact with Ashley after suffering roof damage during the recent storms. I was asked to send a photo of the damage and he responded with an estimate, which I accepted. Within two days he came as promised and made a very good repair to damaged roof tiles. My neighbours all agree that his work looks excellent.
David Rivett
Fantastic service, we had an emergency that although couldn’t be fully resolved immediately, they made sure it was watertight in the meantime. Now the job is finished and I am so pleased. Would recommend these experienced knowledgeable and nice guys to any one for their services. Thanks!
Emmy Callaghan
The service from Mark was first class. We received a quote for the repair work required as a result of storm Eunice the same day I requested his roofing repair service. He visited and completed the necessary work the next day.
David Funge
100% happy . Mark and Ashley were excellent very fast responding to our call after storm Eunice . They have high standards of workmanship are trustworthy and friendly deserve all praise given. Will be our chosen business for any future work.
David Hodgkin
We phoned Micheal on a Friday evening, he come out Saturday Morning at 9.30, we had a few roof tiles slip, he did the work, to a high standard, he even removed some moss what was sitting on the top guttering, which could of caused another problem, Michael is a Calm , easy to talk to man, who listens , he also tells you , what the problem is , how his going to fix it, and a very reasonable price. I will definitely recommend him to anyone. His already done my neighbours slipped tiles.
Mandy Walsh
Good efficient service but at a price!
Robin Hind
Paul is a really nice guy. He gave a sensible quote for the job and stuck to it. He carried out the work on the day and time that he'd promised. Everything quoted for was carried out to the letter and the site was left clean and tidy.
Paul Adams
Very prompt and quick service. All work carried out as per quote within a few days. Would recommend.
Beverley Sinden
Excellent service
Trevor
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
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