Flat Roof Repair Options: Felt vs EPDM vs GRP — Durability Showdown
- Ryan Tucker
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
Choosing the right flat roof repair method can save time, money, and stress. Advanced Roofing Specialists, serving Norfolk and Suffolk, compares Felt vs EPDM vs GRP systems. Each option offers unique benefits. Consequently, homeowners can make informed decisions.
What Is Felt Roofing?
Felt roofing uses layers of bitumen-saturated material. It adheres to the roof deck and cures under heat. Moreover, felt works well for simple repairs. However, its lifespan can vary between 10 and 20 years. Therefore, regular maintenance remains essential.
Advantages of Felt Roofing
Cost-effective installation. Felt typically has lower upfront costs.
Quick repairs. Teams can apply felt repairs within a day.
Proven track record. Felt has served roofs for decades across the UK.
Drawbacks of Felt Roofing
Shorter lifespan. Felt degrades faster than EPDM and GRP.
Prone to blistering. Heat can trap moisture below the surface.
Frequent maintenance. Annual inspections help extend its life.
What Is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. It comes as a durable rubber membrane. Furthermore, EPDM lasts up to 50 years with minimal upkeep. As a result, it attracts homeowners seeking longevity.
Advantages of EPDM Roofing
Long lifespan. EPDM can endure half a century.
Low maintenance. It resists UV rays and extreme temperatures.
Seamless membranes. Larger sheets reduce leaks at joints.
Drawbacks of EPDM Roofing
Higher upfront cost. Quality EPDM weighs more on budget.
Specialist installation. EPDM requires expertise for perfect sealing.
Limited colour options. Most EPDM comes in black, affecting heat absorption.
What Is GRP Roofing?
GRP means Glass Reinforced Polyester. It uses fibreglass and resin to form a hard shell. Furthermore, GRP creates watertight seals around complex roof details. Consequently, GRP excels on extensions and balconies.
Advantages of GRP Roofing
Exceptional durability. GRP resists impact, weather, and chemicals.
Seamless finish. Monolithic layers eliminate penetration points.
Customisable colour. Choose shades to match property aesthetics.
Drawbacks of GRP Roofing
Costly installation. Skilled craftspeople must apply GRP in layers.
Longer cure time. GRP can take up to 48 hours to fully set.
Surface imperfections. Small errors during application can show through.
Comparing Durability
When weighing durability, EPDM and GRP outperform felt. EPDM offers decades of resilience against UV damage. Similarly, GRP builds a rigid shell that stands strong in harsh weather. Conversely, felt requires regular topping up and patching.
Maintenance Needs
Routine checks help all flat roofs last longer. However, felt demands the most care. Moreover, EPDM only needs occasional seal checks. Meanwhile, GRP benefits from gutter clearing and resin rejuvenators every five years.
Cost Considerations
Budget-conscious homeowners often choose felt. Nevertheless, investing more in EPDM or GRP can prove cost-effective long term. As a rule, multiply felt’s lifespan cost by two to compare with EPDM. Ultimately, long-lasting membranes cost less per year.
Choosing the Right Option
For tight budgets: Felt provides quick fixes or temporary solutions.
For longevity: EPDM stands out for decades of trouble-free performance.
For complex designs: GRP offers seamless coverage on awkward shapes.
Why Choose Advanced Roofing Specialists?Advanced Roofing Specialists holds NVQ qualifications in roofing. Additionally, the team serves homes and businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk. They completed a major repair at the Arc Cinema in Great Yarmouth. Consequently, they understand local weather challenges. Furthermore, clients praise their reliability and prompt service.
Client Testimonials
“Highly recommended roofer for flat roofs and tiled. Used many times on my own jobs. Very friendly and helpful and always reliable.”— Terry Edwards
“These guys are fantastic! Got me out of a pickle with a leaking flat roof a few days before our new kitchen was fitted. They even came out on a Sunday morning. Very competitive price too!”— Rowan Nichols
Conclusion:
Selecting the right flat roof repair material matters for warranty and lifespan. Felt suits budgets but needs frequent checks. EPDM offers low maintenance and long service life. GRP delivers robust, tailor-made finishes.
Contact Advanced Roofing Specialists for expert advice.
Safeguard your home with a durable, weatherproof roof.
Phone: 07861700195
Website: www.advancedroofingspecialists.co.uk