From large scale projects to smaller contracts, Western Flat Roofing has a well-established proven track record of supporting commercial businesses with trusted flat roof solutions.
Whether you are a business or a homeowner, solar panels provide you with free energy that generates electricity from the sun using framed silicone cells exposed to light.
As a family business we pride ourselves on delivering excellent work. We build meaningful relationships with our clients as a result of the quality of our services.
When installing a flat roof or fixing an existing roof, the roofing material that you use is one of the most important decisions, and it will affect aesthetic, lifespan, value of residential and commercial properties, and maintenance.
With each flat roof material, there are advantages and disadvantages, and the flat roof covering you choose can make a big difference.
Before making a final decision, we have outlined the top materials for flat roof surfaces (EPDM roofs, GRP, Felt, and TPO) for you, so that you are equipped to make the right choice for you and can find the best flat roof material.
Key Considerations for UK Flat Roof Material
In the UK, one of the most important factors to consider when picking your flat roof systems or flat roof replacement is weather resistance and how well the material fares in rain, wind, frost, and UV, as our weather conditions can be unpredictable.
Longevity is also a key consideration. You want something that lasts a long time, with as little maintenance as possible. If you’re on a tight budget or time frame, how easy it is to install should also be thought about.
Cost effectiveness is probably number one on all of our lists when it comes to picking out a new flat roof material, but this should be considered against the many other factors, including longevity, maintenance and eco friendliness.
Flat Roof Material Comparison Overview Table
Material
Lifespan
Weather Resistance
Installation
Maintenance
Cost
Suitability (UK)
EPDM
20–30 yrs
Excellent
Easy
Low
££
High
GRP
20–30 yrs
Excellent
Moderate
Low
£££
High
Felt
10–15 yrs
Fair
Easy
Medium
£
Moderate
TPO
20–30 yrs
Very Good
Specialist
Low
£££
High
EPDM Roofs ( Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
An EPDM flat roof is made of a synthetic rubber roofing material known for its durability, weather resistance, and long lifespan. It is a single-ply material and installed in one complete layer.
Pros of EPDM Flat Roof Covering
Long lifespan (20–30 years)
Highly resistant to UV, extreme cold snaps, and harsh weather conditions
Very low maintenance
Fast and simple installation
Environmentally friendly (recyclable)
Can handle heavy foot traffic
Cons of EPDM Flat Roof Covering
Aesthetics (matte black, may not suit all tastes)
Can shrink slightly over time
Vulnerable to punctures from falling branches and other debris if not protected
EPDM Rubber Roofing Suitability for the UK
For properties in the UK, the EPDM flat roof material is a great choice. It is a versatile option that needs very little maintenance. It can withstand extreme weather conditions, like rain, winds, and frost, so it works well in the UK climate.
GRP roofing, also known as fibreglass roofing, is a durable, lightweight, and waterproof flat roofing material that can be moulded into any shape, so it is suitable for more complex shapes.
This material is commonly used on both commercial building flat roofs and domestic ones since it’s lightweight, but still incredibly strong.
Pros
Seamless finish (no joints = less chance of leaks) and easy to repair
Very durable and long-lasting
Excellent UV and water resistance
Visually appealing with a clean finish
Simple to repair
Cons
Can crack under structural movement or poor installation
Requires dry weather for installation
Higher installation cost
GRP Suitability for the UK
GRP roofing is highly suitable for the UK climate due to its excellent waterproofing, UV resistance, and durability. Its seamless, joint-free finish makes it especially effective at preventing leaks in the wet and often unpredictable British weather.
GRP performs well in both hot summers and freezing winters without cracking or warping, provided it’s correctly installed. While it requires dry conditions for application and can be more expensive than felt, its long expected lifespan of 20–30 years and low maintenance needs make it a strong choice for residential extensions, dormers, and garages across the UK.
Felt Roofing (Bitumen-based)
Also known as Reinforced Bituminous Membrane, felt roofing has been used for over 100 years and is a solution that’s great at keeping flat roofs nice and water tight when installed correctly.
It’s made from bitumen, fibrous membrane, and sand, and can be applied using two different techniques.
Pros
Most affordable option
Easy and quick to install
Widely available and understood by tradespeople
Good protection against bad weather
Reflects the sun, keeping the house temperature cool in summer, and possibly reduce energy costs.
Cons
Shorter lifespan (10–15 years)
Susceptible to cracking and blistering over time
Requires regular inspection and occasional repairs
Does not withstand heavy foot traffic
Felt Suitability for the UK
Felt roofing is a traditional roofing and budget-friendly option that’s moderately suitable for the UK climate, particularly for smaller or low-priority structures like sheds, garages, and outbuildings. It offers basic waterproofing and is easy to install, even in cooler temperatures, making it a popular choice for DIY projects.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO roofing materials are a popular, single-ply membrane used for flat roofs. It’s a blend of plastic and rubber, which makes it durable, resistant to UV rays and energy efficient.
It’s known for its reflective surface, which reflects the sun and heat away from your house, reducing energy consumption.
If installed properly by a professional roofer and well maintained, it can last up to 30 years!
Pros
Strong UV and weather resistance
Heat-welded seams provide excellent waterproofing
Energy-efficient (reflective surface)
Environmentally friendly (fully recyclable)
Cons
Less common in the UK (fewer specialist installers)
Requires specific tools and expertise
Higher upfront cost
TPO Suitability for the UK
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing is well-suited to the UK climate, offering strong resistance to UV, rain, and temperature extremes. Its heat-welded seams create a watertight, durable surface, and its reflective properties can help reduce heat buildup in warmer months. Though less common in the UK and requiring specialist installation, TPO is a great choice for eco-conscious builds and modern flat roofs where long-term performance and energy efficiency are priorities.
The best roofing material for you is the one that meets all of your criteria. If you want to know more about how we can help you, get in touch with our expert team.
