Flat roofing has come a long way from the felt-only options of decades past, and choosing between EPDM, felt and GRP fibreglass genuinely matters for how long your roof will last and how much it'll cost. Here's an honest comparison from Back to Back Roofing Worcester.
The Three Main Options
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane installed in large sheets with minimal seams. GRP fibreglass is applied as a liquid that cures into a rigid, seamless surface. Felt, the traditional option, is applied in overlapping layers, often torch-applied, and remains a more affordable choice for many applications.
EPDM Rubber: Strengths and Considerations
- Long expected lifespan with minimal maintenance
- Highly flexible, which helps it cope with roof movement
- Fewer seams than felt, reducing potential leak points
- Generally a higher upfront cost than felt
GRP Fibreglass: Strengths and Considerations
- Genuinely seamless finish once cured, which is a real advantage
- Durable and resistant to standing water issues
- Can be walked on more readily than some other systems
- Installation is weather-dependent during application
Felt: Strengths and Considerations
- Most affordable option upfront
- Well-understood, widely available system
- Generally shorter lifespan than EPDM or GRP
- More seams, which can be a source of future issues if not installed well
How We Help You Decide
- Assess your specific roof. Size, exposure and budget all genuinely affect the right choice.
- Explain the real trade-offs. Not just upfront cost, but expected lifespan and maintenance too.
- Recommend based on your priorities. Longevity, budget, or a balance of both.
- Install to a high standard regardless of system chosen. Since installation quality matters as much as material choice.
Not sure which flat roof system suits your property? We'll give you an honest comparison.
View Flat Roofing →Why Choose Back to Back Roofing Worcester
We're a domestic and commercial roofing team based right here in Worcester, on Rose Avenue in WR4, so we know the area and can get to you quickly. Every job comes with clear pricing before work starts and workmanship you can rely on.