What are Common Flat Roof Coverings?

1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane that has gained immense popularity due to its longevity and robustness. Key benefits include:

• • Durability: Lasts over 50 years with proper maintenance.

  • UV Resistance: Withstands prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading.

  • Weatherproofing: Excellent resistance to extreme temperatures and weather conditions, making it ideal for the UK's unpredictable climate.

  • Kerb Integration: The seamless application around roof lantern kerbs ensures a watertight seal, reducing the risk of leaks and enhancing the overall lifespan of the installation.

2. Fibreglass (GRP – Glass Reinforced Plastic)

GRP is a modern flat roof covering that combines practicality with aesthetics. It’s often preferred for:

• Waterproofing: The seamless finish ensures no risk of water ingress, even around intricate kerb designs.

• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep, making it a hassle-free option.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a clean, polished look that complements properties with roof lanterns.

• Kerb Compatibility: GRP can be moulded precisely around roof lantern kerbs, ensuring a snug, watertight fit.

3. Bituminous Felt Roofing

A traditional option, bituminous felt roofing is a cost-effective choice for flat roofs. Key characteristics include:

• Affordability: A budget-friendly option suitable for smaller projects.

• Multiple Layers: Consists of layers of bitumen and felt bonded together, offering moderate durability.

• Suitability: Ideal for sheds, garages, and smaller residential extensions, though less durable compared to modern alternatives.

• Kerb Considerations: While it can be used with roof lanterns, it requires careful detailing around kerbs to avoid water ingress.

4. Single Ply Membranes

Single ply membranes, such as PVC, TPO, and TPE, are lightweight and versatile flat roofing solutions. Benefits include:

• Strength and Flexibility: Highly durable and suitable for a wide range of applications.

• Ease of Installation: Quick and straightforward to install, reducing labour costs.

• Environmental Benefits: Some single-ply options, like TPO, are eco-friendly.

• Kerb Integration: Single ply membranes are ideal for sealing around roof lantern kerbs due to their flexibility and adaptability.

5. Liquid Waterproofing Systems

Liquid-applied waterproofing systems involve coating the existing roof surface with a liquid material that cures into a seamless, flexible membrane. Features include:

• Versatility: Can be applied to various surfaces, including irregular shapes and bespoke roof lantern kerbs.

• Repair-Friendly: Ideal for patching and refurbishing older roofs.

• Seamless Finish: Minimizes leak risks around roof lantern openings by creating a fully integrated seal.

• Durability: Offers excellent longevity with periodic reapplication.

6. Mastic Asphalt

A traditional flat roofing material, mastic asphalt is still used in certain refurbishment projects. Key points include:

• Toughness: Exceptionally strong and long-lasting.

• Waterproofing: Impermeable to water, making it reliable in wet climates.

• Specialist Installation: Requires skilled professionals for proper application.

• Kerb Limitations: While effective, the heavy nature of asphalt may not be ideal for intricate kerb detailing around roof lanterns.

7. Green Roofs

Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are an eco-friendly option gaining traction in residential projects. Features include:

• Insulation: Enhances thermal and acoustic insulation.

• Environmental Benefits: Improves air quality and supports biodiversity.

• Aesthetic Value: Adds a natural, attractive feature to your property.

• Structural Requirements: Requires a reinforced roof structure to bear the additional weight, which must account for the presence of roof lanterns and their kerbs.

8. PVC Roofing

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing is another single-ply membrane option worth considering. Highlights include:

• Flexibility: Suitable for both flat and low-slope roofs.

• Energy Efficiency: Reflective properties reduce heat absorption.

• Weather Resistance: Stands up well to the UK's varying climate.

• Kerb Compatibility: PVC membranes provide a reliable seal around roof lantern kerbs, ensuring a watertight finish.

Choosing the Right Covering for Roof Lanterns

If your flat roof includes a roof lantern, it’s essential to select a material that ensures a secure, watertight seal around the lantern kerb. EPDM, GRP, and liquid waterproofing systems are particularly suited to this application due to their seamless finishes and adaptability.

Key considerations include:

• Kerb Design: Ensure the kerb is well-insulated and compatible with the chosen roofing material.

• Sealing: Use materials that offer flexibility to seal tightly around the kerb edges.

• Waterproofing: Prioritize options with proven performance in preventing leaks.

Additionally, consider the following factors when selecting a flat roof covering:

• Budget: Determine upfront and long-term costs.

• Roof Design: Consider the roof’s size, pitch, and integration with features like roof lanterns.

• Durability: Opt for materials that can withstand the UK's climate.

• Maintenance: Assess the required level of upkeep for each material.

Flat roofs provide a modern and functional solution for residential properties, and the right covering ensures their longevity and performance. Proper attention to kerb design and material selection is essential when integrating roof lanterns. At Just Roof Lanterns, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your roofing needs, especially when installing roof lanterns for enhanced natural light and aesthetic appeal.

All flat roofs should be designed with an incline according to BS 6229 & BS 8217: flat roofs should be designed with minimum falls of 1:40 to ensure a finished fall of 1:80 can be achieved, allowing for any inaccuracies in the construction. This applies to general roof areas along with any internal gutters.