What are the Best Flat Roof Materials?

Choosing the right material for your flat roof can be confusing, especially with many options. A good-quality flat roofing material can protect your home or building from leaks and weather damage for many years. If replacing an old roof, always choose a material that suits your building, budget, and weather conditions. To help you choose the right material, we’ve explained the best flat roof materials, their features, costs, and what they are best for.

What are the Best Flat Roof Materials?

Flat roofing materials are also better for homes, while others are designed for heavy use in commercial buildings. Below, we’ve explained the best types of flat roof materials so you can choose the best one for your needs.

1. EPDM Rubber Roofing

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a black rubber-like material used primarily for flat roofing. It’s also used on garages, home extensions, and sheds.

This material is light and flexible, which makes it easy to install. One of its biggest benefits is that it lasts a long time, about 25 to 40 years if maintained properly. Many choose this because it’s affordable and doesn’t cost much compared to other materials.

However, since it’s black, it absorbs heat and can make your building hotter in warm climates. Some people paint it white to reflect sunlight. It’s also not the best flat roof material for walking on often because it’s not made for heavy foot traffic.

2. TPO

TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) is a white, single-ply roofing material that reflects sunlight and helps to keep your building cool. It’s getting more popular in sunny areas because of this energy-saving feature.

It resists mould, dirt, UV rays, and even strong winds, which makes it easy to take care of. The seams are heat-welded, which makes them very strong and keeps water out.

While TPO roofing can cost more than EPDM, it’s still considered affordable. It should be installed by a professional because welding the seams needs special tools. If installed correctly, it can last 20 to 30 years. It’s a great choice for both residential flat roof materials and commercial flat roof materials.

3. PVC

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a white roofing material known for its strength. It is considered one of the strongest and most durable flat roofing materials, which lasts 20 to 30 years or more with good care.

It’s highly resistant to fire, grease, and chemicals, so it’s commonly used on restaurant roofs, factories, and other commercial buildings. PVC can also handle heavy equipment placed on the roof and occasional walking, which makes it a good option if the roof needs regular access.

Like TPO, it reflects sunlight, which helps reduce cooling costs. However, it’s more expensive than EPDM or TPO in terms of material and installation. Also, if not installed properly, it can shrink over time. Still, thanks to its strength and durability, PVC is often seen as one of the best roofing materials for flat roofs.

4. BUR – Built-Up Roofing

BUR stands for Built-Up Roofing. It’s one of the oldest and most trusted flat roof materials. BUR is made by layering tar (bitumen) and roofing felt, then covering it with gravel. This forms a thick, solid roof that is waterproof and strong enough to walk on.

With good care, BUR roofs can last 20 to 30 years or more. The gravel layer adds extra protection from sunlight and makes the roof more durable against damage.

However, BUR is heavy and requires a strong roof structure to support it. Installation takes time and involves hot tar, which comes with a strong smell and some mess. Still, BUR is a great choice for those who want a tough and long-lasting roof, especially for commercial flat roof materials.

5. Modified Bitumen

Modified Bitumen is a type of asphalt roofing that has been improved by adding rubber or plastic. This makes it more flexible and less likely to crack. It comes in rolls and is usually installed using heat (a torch) or special adhesives.

This roofing type is often applied in two layers, which makes it stronger and better for foot traffic. It performs well in both hot and cold weather, and it’s considered a good choice if you need a roof that can be walked on occasionally.

It usually lasts about 10 to 20 years and is one of the more budget-friendly options. However, using a torch during installation can be risky, so it’s best left to professionals. It’s a solid choice for people looking for affordable flat roofing materials that still offer decent durability.

6. GRP – Fibreglass Roofing

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), or fibreglass roofing, is made using fibreglass sheets and a special resin that hardens into a solid, smooth surface. It looks clean and modern and is completely waterproof.

This roofing material is light and strong and can also handle some foot traffic. It’s very low-maintenance and can last over 20 years if installed properly. Many people like its shiny finish and the fact that it has no seams, which means fewer chances for leaks.

However, GRP is not the best for extensive roofs, and if it’s installed poorly, it can crack, especially if people walk on it too often. It also costs more than other flat roofing materials, but its modern look and strength make it a good option for residential flat roofs.

But you have to remember that even the best material won’t perform well if it’s installed poorly.
At Berkley Roofing & Building Solutions Ltd, we provide professional flat roofing services in Muswell Hill and nearby areas. Our team specialises in flat roof repairs, replacements, and maintenance. We deliver reliable, long-lasting results.

Costs of Flat Roofing Materials

When choosing the best roofing material for flat roofs in the UK, cost is often one of the biggest concerns. But the total price doesn’t just depend on the material itself. It also depends on things like:

• The size of your roof
• The current condition of the old roof
• How complex the installation is
• Labour charges in your area
• Any extra work, like insulation or repairs

EPDM rubber and Modified Bitumen are the most budget-friendly flat roofing materials. On the other hand, GRP fibreglass and PVC are more expensive because of their material quality and the skills needed to install them.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you compare the cost and lifespan of the most common types of flat roof materials:

Roofing Material	Average Cost per m²	Lifespan
EPDM Roofing	£45 – £80	25 – 40 years
TPO Roofing	£60 – £100	20 – 30 years
PVC Roofing	£80 – £120	20 – 30 years
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)	£70 – £110	20 – 30 years
Modified Bitumen Roofing	£50 – £90	10 – 20 years
GRP Fibreglass Roofing	£90 – £130	20+ years

Which Flat Roof Material Is Best for Your UK Roof?

The best flat roof material depends on how you plan to use your roof, the weather in your area, and your budget. Each material has its strengths, so here’s a clear explanation to help you choose the right one.

• If you have a tight budget and want something reliable, choose EPDM or Modified Bitumen. These are two of the most affordable residential flat roof materials. EPDM is a rubber-like sheet that lasts up to 40 years, and Modified Bitumen is stronger than standard asphalt. Both are great if you want a low-cost roof with good protection.
• If you want to keep your home or building cool in hot weather, choose TPO or PVC. These white-colored flat roofing materials reflect sunlight and help lower indoor temperatures. TPO is easy to maintain and budget-friendly. PVC is a bit more expensive but offers excellent strength and is also resistant to fire, grease, and chemicals, making it perfect for hot climates or commercial buildings.
• If you need a strong roof that you can walk on, then choose PVC or BUR (Built-Up Roofing). These are the best flat roof materials for walking on. PVC can handle foot traffic and equipment like AC units, while BUR has a thick, gravel-like top that’s tough and long-lasting. These are great options for commercial flat roof materials or rooftops that need regular access.
• If you want your roof to look smooth, modern, and stylish, choose GRP Fibreglass Roofing. GRP gives a seamless, shiny finish. It’s fully waterproof and looks very clean, making it one of the best choices for small residential flat roof materials. It’s more costly but lasts a long time and needs little maintenance.

Conclusion

Each material has its special use, so the best flat roof material depends on what you’re looking for, whether saving money, keeping your building cool, or having a strong roof that lasts. Every material has its features, so it’s good to understand them before making a decision. Choosing Professional Roofers helps protect your home or building and gives you the best value for years to come.

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