Why an EPDM Roof is an Eco-friendly Flat Roof Option

Why an EPDM roof is the most eco-friendly system for flat roofing, and how you can go above and beyond to get the full potential out of your project.

So you’ve found yourself looking for a new flat roof? The old one has served you well but is showing signs of failure and it’s time to replace it. However, you are daunted by the thought of roofers using a gas torch and tub of bituminous liquid.

Okay, maybe you haven’t thought that far ahead just yet. However, you’re probably hoping for a more modern and professional approach to the old school felt installation on your flat roof. If this is the case, and you are conscious of the environmental implications your decision may cause, you’ll be delighted to hear that there is a more eco-friendly flat roofing system available. EPDM rubber is the eco-friendly material in question.

EPDM (or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is widely used across the globe. It is renowned for its durability, longevity and being eco-friendly. This synthetic rubber membrane possesses a host of properties which make it the most economical, environmentally friendly roofing system. What makes it so special? Let’s take a look at what  the installation of a rubber roof entails, why it’s so eco-friendly, and what extras you can add to your rubber roof to further improve its positive impact on the environment.

The Installation of an EPDM roof:

The installation of this particular system is free of any naked flame or hot tar so it does not pose any fire safety issues. There are a couple of different ways in which the system can be fitted. It all depends on the existing flat roof materials, the complexity and shape of the area it will cover, the performance of the structure beneath the roof, and how the space below is being used.

Over boarding: over boarding is a process used when the condition of the existing roof covering isn’t too poor. The new boards and rubber can easily be laid over the top.

Full strip and replacement: if the existing roof covering and /or boards could compromise the installation of the new rubber roof, then the removal of these materials will be necessary before fitting. If a full strip and replacement is necessary and the space is covering a habitable living area, then there are rules about improving insulation at the point of replacement (which we will cover in detail, below).

The two types of flat roofing systems; Warm Roofs and Cold Roofs

Why is EPDM the most eco-friendly of all the flat roofing systems?

Recycling

A lot of the EPDM membranes we purchase in the UK have had previous uses and come from recycled materials, such as tires. To recycle them requires no burning or releasing harmful gasses into the atmosphere. This material can be recycled over and over, meaning when your rubber roof needs to be replaced it is recyclable.

Insulation

EPDM has fantastic insulating properties. The membrane is naturally good at containing the heat inside of a property, lowering the heating bills in the process. This can be improved even further by installing additional insulation whilst the roof is open.

Longevity

EPDM’s performance against a variety of different conditions is unrivalled. Its resistance to UV rays, extreme weather conditions, flood traffic and expansion capabilities all work together to make rubber one of the strongest and longest lasting flat roofing systems. It is low maintenance and has easy repairability as well. These factors can save property owners a fortune in the long run because they should last up to 50 years when correctly installed.

Non-Hazardous

EPDM does not rely on a gas torch, naked flame or Bitumen based liquid to install the product. The bitumen that was used to install older felt roofs is thought to be hazardous and very hard to dispose of in an eco-friendly way, once removed.

Non-Toxic

The membrane is non-toxic, and therefore great for harvesting unpolluted rainwater for other uses inside and outside of the property. None of the adhesives used to bond rubber to the boards create toxic emissions. This means EPDM is better for the environment overall. It also creates very little smog and has an incredibly low global warming impact.

Are there any additional purchases compatible with an EPDM roof to improve how environmentally friendly the product is?

So we’ve established that EPDM performs wonderfully, and is extremely eco-friendly. If you’re a keen environmental enthusiast looking to further assist in saving the planet, then there are some eco-friendly extras that go hand-in-hand with EPDM. These extras will cost and some roofers will lack the know-how to be able to install all of these products. However, these improvements are certainly worth it when they’re installed properly.

1 – Solar Products

Both solar PV and thermal solar may be compatible for installation over the top of an EPDM flat roof. This depends on the location of the flat roof and whether the existing structure is able to hold the additional weight of the solar products. These products can help towards lowering your electricity and heating bills respectively, as you use more natural energy from the sun in the meantime. If you are interested in installing the solar panels North East homeowners are using to go green and save money, speak to us today. We have a brand new renewables division with our very own qualified solar panel installers.

2 – Green roofing

Green roofs and EPDM were made for each other! Although they work perfectly together, not enough people know that they are compatible and that they can experience the benefits of a green roof. These roofs are fantastic at absorbing excess rainwater, which helps to reduce the stress on local guttering and sewerage systems. They can also become new homes for many different forms of wildlife. Green roofs can reduce noise pollution too. Another benefit of green roofs is that they are amazing at counteracting the effects of intense urban developments. They do so by helping to lower urban air temperatures and therefore combatting the ‘heat island effect’.

3 – Water harvesting

Utilising natural rainwater (which we have copious amounts in the UK) is good for the environment. EPDM rubber does not pollute the water that falls on its surface. This means that the water can be re-used! By installing a vessel that stores this water, it is possible to use rainwater for multiple purposes. You can water your grass and plants on dry days, wash vehicles and fill garden water features. Internally, you can save on water by using the harvested liquid to wash clothes, clean the home and even flush the toilet.

4 – Additional insulation to the property

EPDM is naturally very good at insulating a property. Nevertheless, by adding additional insulation while installing a new rubber roof you will not just save on your heating costs. You will also lower the U-value of your home in the process. If the roof you are replacing is over a habitable living space, building regulations may state that insulation must be improved. On the other hand, if the space is a garage or an outhouse, then this is optional.

EPDM roofing is still by far the most eco-friendly roofing system, even if you do not use any of these add-ons. Its performance alone merits praise but since it’s environmentally friendly, it is hard to ignore when choosing between different systems.

If you are ready to enjoy the benefits of a EPDM roof, call our team on 0191 497 8980. A member of our friendly, professional team will help you to find the right roofing solution. We will also be able to help you with any other roofing queries.