Sure Edge UPVC Trims vs Universal Metal Trims For EPDM Roofing

The Ideal Trim Choice for Your Rubber Roof

Our previous blog “Are Trims Necessary” covered the significance of trims. In this blog, we'll focus on selecting the ideal trims for your roofing needs.

Let’s now explore your options with our Sure Edge UPVC and Universal Metal trims range, emphasising their differences in both functionality and aesthetics.

Rubber4Roofs Sure Edge Trims: The Unified Solution

Made from high-quality UPVC material, these trims are available in black, white, and anthracite grey. Whether working on a garden room, an extension, or other outdoor projects, these trims allow for hassle-free integration and provide a clean, delightful finish.

The significant feature of these trims is their intentional design aspect. The Kerb and Drip trims have been purposefully designed to facilitate water flow by repelling and directing the water away from the roof’s edge.

Pros:

  • Creative Design - Specifically engineered to optimise water flow, these trims feature elevated edges that prevent runoff, directing water efficiently towards the gutter end. The drip trim further channels water away from the roof’s edge, helping to prevent water damage and ensure long-term performance.

  • Distinct Functionality - The kerb trim features an integrated upstand and foam seal, which prevents water from running down the back of the trim and consistently drives away water. The drip trim works to channel water further from the roof edge, guiding it into the gutter.

  • Tailored Look - Three colour options, black, white, and anthracite grey, offer compatibility to complement or contrast with your roofing project.

  • Suitable for Various Roofs - Compatible with multiple styles of roof.   

  • Aesthetics - The combination of the kerb, drip trim, and 90-degree corner profiles delivers a seamless, colour-coordinated finish, enhancing the overall look of the roof.

Cons:

  • Natural Ageing and Changes in UPVC - Potential discolouration and warping over time due to the properties of plastic and exposure to the elements.

  • Prone to Damage - Damage from impacts, e.g., ladders and foot traffic, which may lead to replacement costs, though this is a rare occurrence. 

  • 90-degree Corners - There are no pre-made options for obtuse or acute angles, requiring trims to be cut and mitred for non-standard angles.

Metal Trims: Practical and Durable

We offer a range of versatile and durable metal trims, ideal for various roofing projects, though they require more effort to install compared to Sure Edge UPVC trims. These trims are available exclusively in black and come in 3m lengths.

If you choose to opt for a simple yet robust look over an aesthetically pleasing one, then these trims are most suited. So long as you factor in the extra time, effort and materials, it may require for a proper fit.   

Pros:

  • Durable and Long-lasting - Offering solid protection for your roofing, as the Plastisol galvanised steel and PVC coating protects against corrosion.

  • Ideal for Various Roofing Projects - Offering a useful and robust solution that doesn't limit you to a single roofing style.   

  • Budget-friendly Alternative - In comparison to the Sure Edge UPVC trims.

Cons:

  • More Time and Effort to Install - Requires a wooden batten upstand to repel and direct water into the gutter. Additional battening at the gutter end may be required to help project and channel water into the centre of the gutter, similar to Sure Edge Drip trim. Achieving a flush, clean finish with the metal trims may also require snipping and folding the metal trim to obtain that desirable result.

  • No Pre-drilled Holes - This means installation can be more labour-intensive. (However, this allows more flexibility for the positioning of the holes.) 

  • Limited Colour Options - Only available in black, which might not suit every design.

Conclusion

Choosing between Rubber4Roofs Sure Edge UPVC and Universal Metal trims is a preference of what you value more for your project. The choice between aesthetics and convenience or the reverse. The Sure Edge trims offer a sleek, high-quality finish with built-in upstands and drip edges, making installation easier and more aesthetically versatile. In contrast, standard metal trims provide a durable, budget-friendly alternative but require more effort and time. The choice depends on whether you prioritise a streamlined, clean look or are willing to invest extra time in a more basic solution. 

It's vital to recognise that trims may seem optional but serve an important function, to mechanically fix the membrane to the edges of the roof. They secure and anchor the membrane, preventing wind uplift and adding to the longevity of the EPDM rubber membrane and overall roof. 

Explore our range of Rubber4Roofs trims today and find the perfect fit for your EPDM roofing project!

If you’d like to learn more or discuss your roofing project in detail, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Rubber4Roofs. Our skilled, professional team is here to provide expert guidance and help you choose the best solution for your specific needs.

Discover the Sure Edge and Metal trims by selecting the links below:

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