If you have a flat roof on your home, garage, extension or outbuilding, you may be wondering whether rubber roofing or felt roofing is the better option.
Both are popular flat roofing systems used across Birmingham and the West Midlands, but they have some important differences in terms of durability, installation, maintenance and cost.
At 1st Choice Roofers, we regularly help homeowners around Birmingham, West Bromwich, Walsall and the surrounding areas understand their flat roofing options. So, in this guide, we’ll look at the differences between rubber and felt roofing and explain what you should consider before choosing a new flat roof.
What Is Rubber Roofing?
Rubber roofing usually refers to EPDM rubber roofing, a synthetic rubber membrane designed to provide a waterproof covering for flat and low-pitched roofs.
EPDM is supplied as a flexible membrane and can often cover a large section of a roof with minimal joints. It is commonly used on domestic garages, extensions, porches, dormers and other flat-roofed areas.
One of the main advantages of EPDM is its flexibility. The material can expand and contract with changes in temperature without becoming as brittle as some older roofing materials.
[INTERNAL LINK – Link “EPDM rubber roofing” to your rubber/EPDM roofing service page]
For homeowners in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, this can make EPDM an attractive option for a long-lasting flat roof.
Learn more about rubber roofing here.
What Is Felt Roofing?
Felt roofing is a traditional flat roofing system that has been used throughout the UK for many years.
Modern roofing felt is very different from some of the older felt systems found on ageing garages and extensions. Modern high-quality felt systems are generally installed in multiple layers to create a strong, waterproof roof covering.
Felt roofing can be suitable for a wide range of domestic and commercial applications and is often considered when keeping the initial cost of a roofing project under control.
Rubber Roofing vs Felt Roofing
So, what are the main differences between the two?
1. Durability
One of the biggest reasons homeowners consider EPDM is its durability.
A properly installed EPDM roof can provide many years of service, with manufacturers often quoting lifespans of several decades depending on the system and conditions.
Modern felt roofing can also be highly durable when correctly specified and installed, although its expected lifespan is generally shorter than a good-quality EPDM system.
Of course, the installation is just as important as the material. Poor preparation, inadequate drainage or incorrect installation can shorten the life of any flat roof.
Durability can be a big factor when considering Rubber Roofing vs Felt Roofing.
2. Maintenance
Both roofing systems should require relatively little maintenance when installed correctly.
EPDM is particularly popular because the membrane itself is flexible and resistant to many of the problems associated with older flat roofing materials.
With any flat roof, however, regular checks are worthwhile. Gutters, outlets and drainage points should be kept clear of leaves, moss and debris so that rainwater can drain away properly.
This is particularly important during the wetter months in Birmingham and across the West Midlands.
3. Cost
The cost of a new flat roof depends on several factors, including its size, accessibility, the condition of the existing roof, insulation requirements and the amount of preparation needed.
Generally, felt roofing can have a lower initial installation cost than EPDM.
EPDM may cost more initially, but its longer expected lifespan can make it an attractive option when considering the long-term value of the roof rather than simply the cheapest quotation.
It’s always worth comparing the specification of each quotation rather than simply comparing the final price. Two quotes for a “new flat roof” may involve very different materials, insulation, preparation and workmanship.
Cost can be a big factor when considering Rubber Roofing vs Felt Roofing.
Learn more about new roof costs here.
Is Rubber Roofing Better Than Felt Roofing?
There isn’t necessarily one material that is best for every property.
For many homeowners looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance flat roofing system, EPDM rubber roofing can be an excellent choice.
Felt roofing can also be a reliable solution when a suitable system is correctly installed by an experienced roofing contractor.
The right choice depends on the roof itself, your budget and what you want from the new roof.
A professional roofer should be able to inspect the existing roof and explain which options are suitable for your property.
Which Is Best for a Garage or Extension?
If you’re replacing the flat roof on a garage or extension in Birmingham, both systems could potentially be suitable.
EPDM is particularly popular for domestic flat roofs because of its flexibility and long service life.
Felt may be worth considering if you’re working to a tighter budget or if the roof design is better suited to a built-up felt system.
The condition of the existing roof should also be taken into account. If the roof deck or timber underneath is damaged, simply installing a new waterproof covering may not be enough.
Choosing a Roofing Company in Birmingham
Whichever roofing material you choose, using an experienced roofing contractor is important.
A good roofing installation isn’t just about the visible surface. Correct falls, drainage, roof preparation, insulation, edges, trims and joints all play an important role in ensuring the finished roof performs properly.
If you’re looking for a roofing company in Birmingham or the West Midlands, it’s also worth checking reviews, previous work and relevant trade memberships before making a decision.
Get in touch for a free quotation on your roof today.
Rubber or Felt – Which Should You Choose?
For homeowners in Birmingham, West Bromwich, Walsall and surrounding West Midlands areas, both rubber and felt roofing can be good options when correctly installed.
EPDM rubber roofing may be the better choice if you want:
- A long-lasting flat roofing system
- A flexible waterproof membrane
- Low ongoing maintenance
- A solution suitable for many domestic flat roofs
Felt roofing may be worth considering if you want:
- A proven traditional roofing system
- A potentially lower initial installation cost
- A built-up roofing system suited to your particular roof
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your property rather than simply choosing the material with the lowest price.
Need a New Flat Roof in Birmingham or the West Midlands?
If your flat roof is leaking, showing signs of deterioration or simply approaching the end of its useful life, it may be time to have it inspected.
At 1st Choice Roofers, we provide roofing services for homeowners across Birmingham, West Bromwich, Walsall and the wider West Midlands.
Whether you’re considering EPDM rubber roofing, felt roofing or another flat roofing solution, our team can assess your existing roof and explain the options available.
If you’re unsure whether your flat roof needs repairing or replacing, getting professional advice early can help prevent a small roofing problem from becoming a much larger one.
