Rubber roofing (EPDM)
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane laid as a single sheet over the whole roof and bonded to the deck with adhesive. On a typical garage or extension it goes on with no joints at all, stays flexible in frost, and copes well with the small movements in a timber roof that can crack more rigid coverings.
How we lay an EPDM roof
The old covering comes off and we check the joists and deck. A new deck goes down, usually with insulation boards for a warm roof. The membrane is cut from a roll large enough for the whole roof where possible, laid out to relax, then bonded with a water-based adhesive across the field and a contact adhesive at the edges and upstands.
Edges are finished with trims at the gutter and verges, and the membrane is taken up walls and finished under a flashing. Corners and outlets use preformed pieces so there are no folds for water to find.
Why people choose EPDM
- One sheet, few or no seams on most domestic roofs
- Stays flexible in cold weather, which suits exposed roofs on the edge of the Pennines
- No naked flames on site, unlike torch-on felt
- Quick to lay on a simple rectangular roof
- Can be laid in cooler weather than resin-based systems, though the deck must be dry
Where EPDM is not the best fit
EPDM suits simple shapes. On a dormer with many corners, a roof with lots of pipes coming through it, or a balcony that will be walked on every day, GRP or a different system can be the better choice. Rubber can also be punctured by sharp objects, so a roof used for access needs protection.
We will recommend EPDM where it is the right system and say so plainly where it is not.
Rubber roofing (EPDM): questions people ask
Is EPDM better than felt?
For most small domestic roofs, a single sheet of EPDM has fewer joints than layered felt and needs no flame to install. Felt is still a good system on larger roofs when laid by an experienced team. The quality of the deck and the edges matters more than the label.
Can EPDM be laid in winter?
It can be laid in cooler weather than resin systems, as long as the deck is dry and the adhesive's minimum temperature is met. Frost, rain and damp mornings still stop work.
Can birds or foxes damage an EPDM roof?
Birds rarely cause problems. Sharp objects, dropped tools and furniture legs are a bigger risk. If a roof will be used, we add protection or suggest a harder-wearing system.
Can an EPDM roof be repaired?
Yes. Small punctures and tears are cleaned and patched with a compatible rubber patch and primer, and the repair bonds to the existing sheet.
Tell us what is happening with your roof
Call, or send a few details and a photo if you have one. We will come back to you, arrange a visit and give you a written quote before any work starts.