EPDM Comparison: Your EPDM Options Made Clear

EPDM roofing is known for its durability, flexibility, and weather resistance. Rubber4Roofs offers four EPDM roofing systems to match various needs and budgets:

Choosing an EPDM Roofing Material

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you choose the right membrane for your next project.

A roll of Resitrix lying on top of a felt shed roof, ready to be installed to replace the old feltA roll of Resitrix lying on top of a felt shed roof, ready to be installed to replace the old felt

ClassicBond EPDM (1.2mm & 1.5mm)

Overview: A trusted and widely used EPDM membrane ideal for both residential and smaller commercial flat roofs. Available in two thicknesses.

Pros:

  • BBA-certified with a life expectancy of up to 50 years

  • Lightweight and easy to install with cold-applied adhesives

  • Available in large, seamless sheets (minimises joints)

  • Fire-rated Broof T4

  • Complies with Building Regulations

Cons:

  • It cannot be directly overlaid on a bitumen surface like felt

  • Not suitable for heavy foot traffic

Best for: Extensions, dormers, garages and general-purpose flat roofs.

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Skyguard EPDM (1.0mm)

Overview: Specifically designed for sheds, garden offices, and outbuildings. This is an entry-level EPDM offering for small domestic projects.

Pros:

  • Pre-cut sizes tailored to smaller roofs

  • UV stable & weather-resistant

  • DIY-friendly with full installation kits 

  • Rapid fitting times

  • 50-year life expectancy

Cons:

  • Not BBA-certified

  • Not suitable for home extensions as it does not comply with Building Regulations 

Best for: Garden buildings, sheds, summerhouses, and home office pods.

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Resitrix (2.5mm)

Overview: A self-adhesive reinforced EPDM membrane, Resitrix offers exceptional durability and is ideal for larger roofs due to its additional puncture resistance and dimensional stability.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable with a life expectancy of up to 70 years

  • Reinforced with glass fibre/fleece for additional puncture resistance

  • High slip resistance even after rainfall

  • Can withstand foot traffic

  • BBA certified

  • Suitable for a wide range of surfaces (e.g., timber boards, concrete, GRP, metal, felt, glass, TR27 boards)

  • Comes in manageable rolls (1m width x 10m length), allowing easy handling and detailing with off-cuts

Cons:

  • More expensive than standard EPDM options

  • Needs more experience during installation due to the use of a heat gun

  • Requires specialist tools like a heat gun

  • Premium product comes at a premium price

Best for: Commercial roofing, large roofs, overlaying old bitumen roofs, or highly detailed domestic projects.

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ClassicBond Pro (2.5mm)

Overview: A fleece-backed EPDM membrane, ClassicBond Pro, combines flexibility with added strength, ideal for refurbishments or new builds. It is a heavy-duty option for a range of surfaces.

Pros:

  • 2.54mm thick for enhanced durability

  • Life expectancy of up to 50 years

  • BBA, CE, and fire-rated to Broof T4

  • Pre-applied 3-inch seam tape for easier installation

  • Ideal for renewal and new build applications

  • Overlay capabilities can be applied directly onto substrates like felt or bitumen 

  • Available in manageable roll size 1.525m x 12.19m (18.58m2)

  • Not prone to shrinkage or creases, and does lay better due to added weight    

Cons:

  • Depending on the shape and style of the roof, fitting can be more demanding as rolls may require joining at different junctions

  • As ClassicBond Pro requires joining, it won't be a seamless finish

  • Premium product comes at a premium price

Best for: New builds and roof refurbishments, particularly for laying over felt or older roofs.

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EPDM Roofing Comparison Table

Final Thoughts

Each EPDM roofing material option caters to different needs. ClassicBond is the cost-effective all-rounder for general flat roofs, while Skyguard is perfect for small DIY garden projects.

For refurbs, overlays, or heavy-duty applications, both Resitrix and ClassicBond Pro deliver premium strength and durability, with Resitrix offering reinforced, self-adhesive performance for commercial and detailed work, and ClassicBond Pro providing fleece-backed flexibility and ease of use on domestic refurbishments. In most cases, excluding Skyguard, these membranes can generally be used for the same types of projects; the key is scrutinising which system is the most appropriate for your roof. 

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which one’s right for you? You can speak to our team of roofing experts today or visit our EPDM Comparison Page to explore more. Whether you’re a first-time DIYer or a seasoned roofer, we’ve got the perfect rubber roofing solution for your project.

Contact us or browse our full EPDM range now.

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