EPDM vs. Felt: which is best for your roof?

Here at Amber Flat Roofing, we’re experts in roofing and have been installing EPDM rubber roofing for a number of years. We know how important it is to find the right material that suits your property, so in this blog post, we will be comparing EPDM with felt and highlighting why EPDM is the better option.

EPDM is a synthetic rubber that is commonly used in the flat roofing industry. It is a high-density membrane that is highly resistant to water. This rubber is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and a range of other benefits.

However, felt is still a commonly chosen roofing material due to its waterproof properties. It can be easily applied to any flat surface by torching, resulting in a seamless finish. Additionally, felt is frequently used as an added layer of protection underneath slate or tiles.

Although both methods are common for flat roofing, EPDM is the preferred choice due to several factors. Let’s explore these categories to better understand why EPDM is highly regarded.

Life Span & Costs

Amber Flat Roofing provides EPDM rubber that has a much longer lifespan than felt. The warranties for EPDM rubber range from 20-30 years and can last up to 50 years. Our thickest membrane of 1.5 mm EPDM rubber has the highest warranty available in the market, and our 1.2 mm EPDM rubber comes with a 20-year warranty.

Typically, felt roofs last only 10-15 years, which makes them less expensive than EPDM rubber roofs. However, it’s important to note that while felt may be cheaper initially, the overall cost is actually higher because you will need to replace the roof again within 15 year

Single sheet of membrane

EPDM rubber is shipped in accordance with the size of your roof, and it typically has few or no joints, which reduces the risk of future damage or leaks. This membrane also maintains its flexibility, making it less likely to crack. In the event of any minor damage, a small repair kit can quickly resolve the issue.

Not only is felt easily damaged by extreme weather, but even small cracks require a skilled tradesman to repair it. However, repairing the damage with new felt may result in a patchy appearance.

Installation

EPDM rubber can be installed without using flames or heat, making the installation process much simpler than felt roofing, which needs to be torched on and requires professional installation. That’s why many people prefer to use EPDM for DIY projects. Felt roofing is time-consuming and potentially hazardous as it involves torching and careful handling. In contrast, it takes only a few hours and a dry day to make an EPDM roof weatherproof.

Better for the environment

EPDM is a great environmental option because it doesn’t release harmful oils or Phalates into rainwater when it runs off the roof, which is different from some other roofing systems. Furthermore, EPDM doesn’t get affected by water and vice versa. EPDM is a material that allows rainwater to remain safe for usage and does not contaminate the soil when it seeps in. This makes it an excellent material for pond liners, as it does not harm aquatic life by affecting the water quality. On the other hand, felt contains bitumen and crude oil, which are unsustainable. Therefore, EPDM is the better choice between the two materials.

When it comes to flat roofing materials, EPDM rubber is the clear winner. With its longer life span, lower cost in the long run and more environmentally friendly properties, EPDM offers a great solution for any property owner looking for an effective and reliable roof covering. Whether you’re doing a DIY project or hiring professionals, Amber Flat Roofing can help you get started with your EPDM installation process today!

Contact us now to learn more about our high-quality products and services.

Rubber Flat Roofing Installation

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