Company Registration: 10273019
If you’re considering a new flat roof for your home, garage, or extension, you’ve likely come across two popular options: GRP (fibreglass) and EPDM (rubber). Both are excellent alternatives to traditional felt, offering superior durability and longevity. So, which one is right for your property? Let’s take a look.
GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic, more commonly known as fibreglass. It’s created by applying layers of fibreglass matting and resin directly onto your roof deck, then sealing it with a topcoat. The result is a completely seamless, hard surface that is 100% waterproof once cured and extremely resistant to cracking, splitting, and water pooling.
Key benefits of GRP:
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer — a synthetic rubber membrane that is laid over the roof deck and bonded or mechanically fixed in place. It’s been widely used across the UK for decades and is well known for its flexibility and resilience across a wide range of temperatures.
Key benefits of EPDM:
Durability & Strength: GRP has the edge here. Its rigid surface is harder to damage and can handle foot traffic far better than rubber. For homeowners, this is particularly useful if you need regular access to your roof, for cleaning gutters or maintaining skylights, for example. It's also an excellent choice for commercial premises such as pub rooftop terraces, where people will gather regularly.
Flexibility & Movement: EPDM wins here. Because it’s a rubber membrane, it naturally flexes with a building as temperatures rise and fall. This makes it particularly well-suited to larger or older properties where some structural movement is expected.
Appearance: GRP offers more aesthetic flexibility, with various finishes available. EPDM has a classic matt grey/black rubber appearance, which works well but offers fewer options.
Cost: Both systems are competitively priced, though GRP can be slightly higher due to the materials and installation process involved. That said, both are considered premium options that deliver strong value over their lifespan.
Ultimately, the best system for your home depends on the size and purpose of your roof, your budget, and your long-term plans for the property. The good news is that both are excellent, long-lasting solutions when installed correctly by experienced professionals, like us at Highworth Flat Roofing.
Not sure which system is right for you? With over 50 years’ experience installing flat roofs across Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and Oxfordshire, our team can assess your roof and recommend the best solution for your needs and budget. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.
If you would like a free, no-obligation estimate, please contact us today.
Based in Swindon, we proudly cover the following areas: Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and Oxfordshire.