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.
Need a Roofer?
Popular Local Roofers
Need a Roofer?
Recent Reviews About The Roofers
We had been trying for weeks to have a hole in our roof mended. We asked for a call back on the Thursday. They called us back within a few minutes and came and fixed our roof Saturday. Will definitely use them for any other roofing repairs
Alison McKenna
Great service from Alan and his team. Kept us informed throughout. Would rehighly recommend.
Jane Reid
Very pleased with the new roof to our extension. Excellent communication - came out quickly to provide a quote - work done speedily and efficiently in very cold weather. Thank you.
Gary
Small job fixing ridge tiles. Good quality work, done promptly and at a fair price.
Dave Hoskins
On my journey to find what is the issue with my roof Michael came recommended by another very high ranking professional who deemed its best to get some roof work done before I attempt to clean moss. I have nothing but kind words to describe Michael's professionalism, knowledge and skill. He has a very sharp eye and can pinpoint anything wrong with the roof and is incredibly honest and clear on what options we have on how to attempt to do the work. He provides an update every day on what is done and what is left and is incredibly clean and tidy when doing the work. He has so much compassion of the family situation and provides options for work to be done to suit the family budget. He has been so kind, knowledgeable, and honest with us that he has made something as devastating as roof works in 2 months of moving in, for a first time buyer, something manageable. He is always on time and has prioritised to do work even when the temperatures were below 0 just to make sure our roof wasn't leaking with the bad weather saving us a lot of potential damage. He is very trustworthy and I would recommend him and use him again if needed.
Didi
I contacted L&M roofing on Saturday, the problem with the damaged chimney, we met on Sunday, we agreed on the work, on Monday it was already done, before and after photos, efficiently and professionally. Thank you I'm waiting for the first heavy rain 🙂
Sebastian
We lost a tile overnight in the recent storms - gave him a ring when we noticed it (on a wet & windy Saturday) - he was here within the hour and job completed 10mins after arriving. He was almost too embarrassed to charge us - but we were happy to pay for his service (and obviously did). Great guy and a great job done. Highly recommended - and such a nice chap as well. We will definitely use him again.
David Morgan
I can't praise Steve and his team highly enough. Exemplary standard of workmanship, courteous, punctual, tidy, considerate and reasonably priced. The work (replacing soffits, fascias & guttering) was completed on time, on budget and to the highest standard. The site was thoroughly cleaned before they left. I would unreservedly recommend giving Steve the chance to quote for your job and am sure that you won't be sorry.
Rogers
Very professional, Very happy with the end result. Would recommend 100%
Pam
Amazing from start to finish
Sophie
Would recommend SDB building. Communications are always excellent, and the team deliver high quality works on the promised timescale.
Stephen
Quick and efficient response to the major issue found when doing work, communications were excellent throughout the work, photos supplied of completed work which is very helpful. While not the cheapest or most expensive, work completed looks 5*, it was not rushed.
Steve
I needed some repairs to roof & drainpipes adjusting. Steve came as agreed, gave a competitive quote, was friendly & helpful offering good sound advice. His colleagues tidied up and seem to have resolved the problems. Thank you to him & his colleagues
Sue
Very helpful and thorough did a brilliant job and very friendly.. Would definitely use them again highly recommend
Christine
The work was delayed by weather but Steve kept me updated, and I was completely happy with end result
Peter
Prompt reply and dealt with problem immediately, and corrected problem which was left by original company! Thank you
Terrie
Steve turned up as promised and the job was carried out quickly and efficiently. I would definitely use again!
Paul
Steve and the guys did a great job replacing the valley, installing an eaves tray and felt replacement on the chimney and chimney flaunching to name just a few of the repairs. High quality job - I can tell by the photos they undertook before and after. Reliable time keeping, they worked hard, kept tidy and above all the communication was excellent. I have used them several times before for different building jobs and they always provide a high level of service which is customer focused. Highly recommended.
Colette
Great team of guys who responded to our urgent repair needs. Steve was happy to talk us through the issues he could see and the options and costs of correcting them, before starting work, so there were no surprises. Work was completed on time and to a high standard.
Patrick
Needed a Velux window removed from the roof and also some repairs. Team were professional, efficient and got the job done in a day. Will be using them again and would highly recommend if you need work done
Jake
My Trusted Expert Guarantee
Experts Have Been Vetted & Certified