What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest?

What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest?

When choosing a flat roof system, longevity is a key consideration.

The right roofing system can provide decades of reliable protection for your property, reducing maintenance costs and the need for frequent replacements. At Plytech, we believe in the superiority of EPDM roofing for its exceptional durability and longevity. However, it’s essential to understand the various flat roofing options available in the UK to make an informed decision. Here, we’ll explore the most common types of flat roofing systems and highlight why EPDM stands out as the best choice for long-lasting performance.

1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber Roofing

Overview: EPDM is a rubber membrane that isi known for its durability and flexibility.

Longevity: EPDM roofs can last over 50 years, making them one of the longest-lasting roofing options available.

Benefits:

  • Durability: Resistant to UV radiation, ozone, and extreme temperatures.
  • Low Maintenance: Minimal upkeep required over its lifespan.
  • Ease of Installation: Simple installation process reduces labour costs.
  • Environmental Friendliness: Recyclable and low environmental impact.
  • Ideal Applications: Sheds, garages, extensions, dormer windows, green roofs, solar roofs, and accessible rooftops.

At Plytech, we are proud distributors of Elevate RubberCover EPDM, offering a robust 20-year warranty and the assurance of a BBA certification, which underscores the product’s quality and performance.

2. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) Roofing

Overview: TPO is a single-ply reflective roofing membrane made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber.

Longevity: Typically lasts 20-30 years.

Benefits:

  • Energy Efficiency: Reflective surface reduces cooling costs.
  • Durability: Good resistance to UV radiation and chemical exposure.
  • Eco-Friendly: Recyclable material.
  • Ideal Applications: Commercial buildings, energy-efficient homes, and buildings in hot climates.

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Roofing

Overview: PVC is a single-ply roofing membrane known for its strength and flexibility.

Longevity: Generally lasts 20-30 years.

Benefits:

  • Chemical Resistance: Highly resistant to chemicals, making it suitable for industrial applications.
  • Durability: Strong and flexible, with heat-welded seams providing excellent waterproofing.

Fire Resistance: Offers good fire resistance.
Ideal Applications: Commercial and industrial buildings, roofs with complex shapes.

4. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Overview: BUR consists of multiple layers of bitumen alternated with reinforcing fabrics.

Longevity: Can last up to 30 years.

Benefits:

  • Waterproofing: Multiple layers provide excellent waterproofing.
  • Durability: Highly resistant to damage from foot traffic and weather.
  • Ideal Applications: Commercial buildings, flat roofs with heavy foot traffic.

5. Bitumen Roofing

Overview: A type of BUR that uses polymer-modified bitumen for enhanced performance.

Longevity: Typically lasts 20-30 years.

Benefits:

  • Flexibility: Better flexibility at low temperatures.
  • Durability: Enhanced resistance to weathering and UV radiation.
  • Ideal Applications: Residential and commercial buildings.

6. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) / Fibreglass Roofing

Overview: GRP is a composite material made from polyester resin reinforced with glass fibres.

Longevity: Can last up to 25 years.

Benefits:

  • Seamless: Provides a seamless and waterproof finish.
  • Durability: Resistant to impact and weathering.
  • Ideal Applications: Residential roofs, balconies, walkways, and green roofs.

7. Mastic Asphalt Roofing

Overview: Consists of asphalt, limestone powder, and natural resins.

Longevity: Can last up to 60 years, making it one of the longest-lasting options.

Benefits:

  • Durability: Extremely durable and long-lasting.
  • Waterproofing: Provides excellent waterproofing.
  • Ideal Applications: Flat roofs, terraces, and green roofs.

8. Liquid Roofing Systems

Overview: Involves applying a liquid coating that cures to form a seamless waterproof membrane.

Longevity: Generally lasts 20-30 years.

Benefits:

  • Seamless: Easy to apply and provides a seamless finish.
  • Versatility: Can be used over existing roofing materials and on roofs with complex shapes.
  • Ideal Applications: Roof refurbishments, complex shapes, and additional waterproofing needs.

Why EPDM is the Best Choice

While each flat roofing system has its own merits, EPDM stands out for its exceptional longevity, durability, and environmental benefits. With a lifespan exceeding 50 years and minimal maintenance requirements, EPDM offers outstanding value and peace of mind. At Plytech, our Elevate RubberCover EPDM membrane is designed to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring your roof remains robust and reliable for decades.

Why Plytech for EPDM Rubber Roofing?

What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - Exceptional Service - What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - Plytech

Exceptional Customer Service

Outstanding service for your EPDM rubber roofing needs. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to support you.

What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - Delivery - What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - Plytech

Next Day UK Delivery

On site when you need us! Order your EPDM rubber roofing products by midday for guaranteed Next Day Delivery across the UK, keeping your projects on schedule.

What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - 20 Year Warranty - What Flat Roof System Lasts the Longest? - Plytech

Free 20-Year Warranty

Enjoy peace of mind with our Free 20-Year Warranty on all EPDM rubber roofing membranes, a testament to the durability of our products.

Elevate your EPDM projects

Get in touch for quality EPDM rubber roofing supplies.

Plytech UK Ltd, Rubber roofing solutions