Your Rubber Roofing Questions Answered

Rubber roofing is way ahead of the game when it comes to domestic waterproofing, soaring in popularity as it outperforms felt and other traditional materials. As one of the UKs largest suppliers of EPDM rubber roofing, we’re here to help you harness all of its benefits for your projects. 

If you’re new to rubber roofing, you’ll have questions! At PermaRoof we’ve got you covered… here are ten of our most commonly asked questions – answered by the experts: 

1. What is EPDM rubber roofing?

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used for flat or low-slope roofs due to its durability and flexibility.  

2. How long does an EPDM roof last?

Some types of EPDM roofing can last for more 50 years, offering excellent resistance to UV rays and weathering. This has been proven over decades of field testing all over the world.

3. Can EPDM be installed over existing roofing materials like felt?

We would always recommend that you completely remove old roofing materials before applying EPDM for the best results and longevity. However, EPDM can sometimes be installed over existing felt if the underlying structure is sound and any loose or damaged material removed.

4. Is it possible to walk on a rubber roof?

The answer to this will vary, as sharp objects stuck in shoe treads can puncture even the toughest membrane. With care taken, yes, you can walk on a rubber roof for maintenance purposes. If the roof is intended for regular foot traffic, installing pavers or promenade tiles can help to protect the membrane. 

5. What thickness of EPDM membrane should I use?

For most residential applications, a standard rubber roofing membrane of 1.14mm is often sufficient. A thicker, 1.5mm membrane gives a heavier duty finish, suited to green roofing projects, roof terraces and business premises.

The following table shows the manufacturer's recommendations:

6. How is rubber roofing installed?

Rubber roofing membranes are adhered to the roof deck using adhesives, and seams are sealed with seam tapes and primers to ensure waterproofing. RubberCover from ELEVATE can be cut into large sheets, which are often sufficient to cover domestic buildings in one go (up to 15m x 60m). 

We offer a huge range of rubber roofing installation guides in our Knowledge Base and in the corporate resource library.

7. Can rubber roofing be repaired if damaged?

Yes, rubber roofing can be repaired using appropriate materials like detailing kits, patches and primers, depending on the extent of the damage. EPDM is hard to damage, but straightforward to repair and we provide a range of products to make it fast and easy.

8. Is EPDM environmentally friendly?

EPDM is often made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable at the end of its life, reducing landfill waste. Some carry a service life expectancy of more than 50 years, which means it requires replacing far less than other types of materials. It remains UV stable, does not break down like other materials and will not leach chemicals into the environment.

9. What is the largest size of EPDM membrane available?

ELEVATE RubberCover can be cut to any size up to 15m x 60m.

10. Are special tools required to install EPDM roofing?

Basic tools like rollers for applying adhesive, seam rollers and cutting tools are needed for EPDM installation.

Do you have a question about rubber roofing? 

If you have a question about rubber roofing that we haven’t covered here, we’re happy to chat your queries through - by phone, by live chat or via our contact forms. On each product listing, there’s an option for you to 'Ask a Question' directly on the page. Please get in touch if we can help you.