You may have heard the term ‘EPDM roofing’ floating about, but you’re not quite sure what it actually is.
When it comes to flat roofing, few options are better than EPDM. Short for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, EPDM roofing is a go-to solution for UK homes and buildings, thanks to its incredible resistance to water, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations.
Today, Beesley and Fildes will delve further into what this type of roofing is, when it should be used, and how to select the best option for your project.
What is EPDM roofing?
EPDM roofing is a single-ply rubber membrane used for flat roofs, popular for both domestic and commercial applications.
To install this type of roofing, you have to glue it directly to the substrate, making it a quick and simple option for time-constrained projects or DIY installations. It can also be mechanically fixed or ballasted with slabs or gravel, making it versatile and adaptable!
Its name might sound technical, but in practical terms, this type of roofing is a strong, flexible material that creates a watertight barrier for flat roofs. It works like magic! Most come in large rolls and various thicknesses (commonly 1.14 mm or 1.52 mm) and are compatible with timber, concrete, and certain insulation boards.
Once installed, EPDM can last up to 50 years.
Whether you need to upgrade a garage roof, home extension, garden room, office, or shed, EPDM won’t let you down. Its lightweight design means no extra structural support is needed; does it get any better than that?
How much does EPDM roofing cost?
On average, EPDM roofing costs around £45 per square metre.
However, prices can vary depending on the complexity of the installation, the roof's size, and the quality of the roofing material.
The benefits of EPDM roofing
It’s no surprise that EPDM roofing is beloved by builders and roofers when it comes with so many benefits.
Besides being relatively straightforward to install (saving you a lot of time and money), it also performs well and lasts for decades. But wait, there are plenty more benefits where that came from.
- Strong weather resistance: From heatwaves to heavy downpours, EPDM can handle it all. Its waterproof design means it doesn't absorb moisture and remains flexible, even in freezing conditions. Resistant to UV rays, it won't shrink or crack over time.
- Low maintenance: Yes, EPPM roofs are a godsend for people who don’t want to spend time on repairs and upkeep. All it needs is some occasional sweeping and a quick once-over after a storm to check everything is looking good. If any minor damage does occur, EPDM-compatible repair tape or adhesive will do the trick.
- Lightweight design: Unlike GRP or torch-on felt, EPDM is light and easy to handle. This makes it handy for small sheds, garages, and garden rooms where adding weight to the structure is a concern.
- Cost-effective: Since EPDM is relatively cheap to purchase, it’s ideal for budget-friendly jobs. This is ideal for homeowners or businesses looking to keep their overhead costs down.
- Flexible design: As EPDM is flexible in nature, it can be laid to fit perfectly to various roof layouts, including awkward corners and angles. It’s suitable for cold and warm roof designs and can even be used under green roofing systems or solar panel installations.
- Eco-friendly material: EPDM is a recyclable material, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious builders and homeowners. It’s a great way to help a building meet green requirements and lower your carbon footprint.
Choosing the right EPDM system
Not all EPDM roof systems are the same, and to get the best results, you need to factor in the size, shape, and purpose of your roof.
Fully adhered, mechanically fixed or ballasted?
There are three main ways to install EPDM roofs:
1. Fully adhered
Common for small domestic installations, fully adhered EPDM involves glueing the membrane directly onto the roof deck using water-based or contact adhesive.
Many people opt for this when installing this type of roof onto garages or sheds. It fits perfectly around complex shapes (e.g. pipes and skylights) and is highly resistant to harsh winds.
2. Mechanically fixed
Using a combination of fasteners and batten bars to secure the EPDM membrane to the roof structure, this system is more suited for large-scale projects, like commercial units or warehouses.
Once fixed, the seams are sealed using cover strips and pressure-sensitive tape to keep everything in place. Mechanically fixed EPDM is quick and requires less adhesive than other methods. However, it does require more specialist tools, e.g., screw guns and seam rollers.
3. Ballasted
When using a ballasted EPDM roofing method, the material is dry-laid onto the surface and secured in place by gravel, paving slabs, or specially designed ballast.
However, this is more common for green roofs or commercial properties designed with load-bearing capability, rather than homes. It’s great for temporary installations, but constant maintenance is needed to prevent drains from clogging due to debris and loose ballast.
Membrane thickness
With a range of different thicknesses available, 1.14mm (also known as 0.045") and 1.52mm (0.060") EPDM are the most commonly used for residential roofs.
- 1.14mm (standard): Suitable for the majority of residential roofing tasks. It's lightweight, pliable, and manageable, which is particularly helpful when installing around tight spaces.
- 1.52mm (heavy duty): For high-traffic areas, including roofs used for maintenance access, solar panel installation, or places where falling debris could be a concern.
Cleaning EPDM roofing
Once installed, EPDM roofing is fairly easy to maintain. Once or twice a year is usually enough to keep it in tip-top shape (with the exception of storms and harsh weather).
When cleaning your roof, avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach, solvents, or petroleum-based products, as these can break down the rubber, weakening your roof.
Instead, brush and rinse the roof with a hose on a low setting to remove any dirt and debris, then use an EPDM membrane cleaner to lightly scrub the surface. Always mix your cleaner with warm water and avoid using abrasive brushes.
Once you’re done, simply hose off the suds and call it a day!
Get started on your low-maintenance roof
At Beesley and Fildes, we have a wide range of EPDM roofing tools and materials to help you get started on your next roofing project.
With a seamless finish, excellent durability, and unmatched flexibility, it’s no mystery why professional and DIY experts continue to choose EPDM for their residential and commercial roofing upgrades.
And when you choose us, you also enjoy competitive prices, huge savings, and free delivery! Browse more of our roofing products today to stock up for your next job.
