GRP vs EPDM Roofing

Felt, GRP and EPDM are three of the most common roofing types used in construction. Felt is regarded as a more traditional option, but GRP and EPDM roofing are two exceptional quality roofing systems used for flat roofing.

Read on to find out which system is more suitable for you.

Benefits of GRP Roofing

Glass reinforced polyester, or GRP roofing, is commonly known as fibreglass roofing. The material is seamless and can create a smooth and sleek finish to a roof. Some of the benefits of using this material include:

Weather benefits – GRP roofing is UV resistant, meaning it isn’t susceptible to degradation over time. The material is storm proof and frost proof, so will withstand even the harshest of UK weather.
Guarantees – GRP roofing systems are known for being long lasting, therefore you’ll get an extended guarantee. Our Cromar systems are of impeccable quality and designed with longevity and safety in mind. That’s why they come with a 25 year guarantee, and are fully fire retardant (BS476 PART3 EXT.F.AB), as well as being heat and impact resistant. This is far longer than felt roofing, which is known to only have a 10-15 year lifetime.
Quality and durability – GRP roofing, when installed correctly, is entirely leak free as opposed to felt, which can become soft in extreme weather or be warped by intense sunlight. There are no joints and no seams, meaning the finish is flush and neat. There is also the option for an anti-slip finish, which helps make the roof durable enough to withstand foot traffic. All of this creates a thoroughly durable roofing system suitable for almost any weather conditions or usage types.
Stylistic options – Cromer GRP systems are available in a range of profiled edge trims to suit all applications and housing shapes. This means you can be sure to find trims to suit the shape and style of your house.

Benefits of EPDM Roofing

EPDM roofing is a cost-effective alternative and as such is one of the most popular flat roofing systems available. Although felt roofing is cheaper, it’s not just price that makes EPDM such a widely sourced roofing system.

Temperature Resistance – our ClassicBond EPDM roofing isn’t susceptible to cracking, peeling or splitting at temperatures between -40 Degrees Celsius and +120 Degrees Celsius, offering full protection to all weather and temperature extremes. Felt, on the other hand, is known to warp in extreme sunlight, so if your house is in an open space and not protected from the sun, EPDM is by far a better option.
Longevity – testing has proven that EPDM roofing functions like new after 30 years of use. So sure are manufacturers that this will be the case that our EPDM roofing systems are supplied with 20 years of membrane warranty and service life in excess of 35 years, proven for 50 years. This, in comparison to the maximum 10-15 year lifespan of felt, makes EPDM worth the investment and a justifiable cost. Much like GRP roofing, EPDM roofing is also resistant to UV and ageing.
Environmentally friendly – EPDM roofing is non-toxic and does not pollute any rainwater that may fall, meaning it is a safer option for any surrounding wildlife.
Fire resistance – EPDM roofing boasts heat and flame free installation, and the ClassicBond brand holds the highest European fire ratings. This makes EPDM roofing an incredibly safe option for a number of applications.

GRP vs EPDM: The Choice is Yours?

GRP & EPDM flat roofing are very safe and durable. The materials boast similar benefits, however when it comes to price or leak proofing, this might be where the small differences come to have more influence upon your decision.

EPDM, is likely to be a little more cost-effective with great flexibility. GRP will cope slightly better with wetter and harsher conditions making it more suitable for more extreme weather, whereas felt, although cheap and effective, doesn’t quite have the lifetime value or weather resistance of the other two options, and you may end up spending more on repairs and maintenance in the long run.

To find all you need to install a new flat roof system on your property, and to browse both our ClassicBond EPDM and ProGRP ranges, click here.