Losing Business By Only Offering Felt?

Have you ever been asked to install a roof that's not felt?

The way homeowners decide on materials for their homes is changing. Felt's no longer the only flat roofing material dominating the market. 

This blog will tell you exactly why: 

  • Homeowners' needs are changing
  • EPDM rubber roofing is quickly becoming a sought-after flat roofing material

Why Are Homeowners' Needs Changing?

It’s becoming harder and harder to buy affordable homes. This shift in the housing market has forced many homeowners to stay put for longer in comparison to the 1980s when housing was a lot more reasonably priced.

Homeowners want but more importantly, need materials for their homes that are long-lasting. Materials they can fit and forget. First Insight's recent report found that 72% of people now consider sustainability in their buying decisions. 

Finding the right flat roofing material is no longer a quick decision based on a recommendation. As a nation, we are taking longer than ever to make a buying decision. Google and Youtube have made it super easy for Homeowners to find out what is ‘the best’ of anything they need.

Why Are Homeowners Asking For Rubber Roofing?

For a homeowner, it’s important that their new flat roof becomes a reliable part of their home. They don’t want to be burdened with mundane maintenance or fear that their roof might fail.

Here’s the top 5 reasons why homeowners are now picking rubber roofing for their homes…

1. Proven Track Record

All rubber roofing systems have a life expectancy of 50 years which is a massive difference in comparison to felt which generally offers a 10-20 life expectancy. ClassicBond in particular is the original rubber roofing that was fitted over 50 years ago. This very roof is still going strong today giving peace of mind to homeowners that it stands the test of time.

2. UV Stable

This material doesn’t deteriorate over time as it's absolutely UV stable which is a massive unique selling point compared to felt. This has given many homeowners reassurance that they will experience the same quality throughout the roof's service life.  

3. Completely Maintenance-Free

Rubber roofing is the material you can fit and forget. Its extra smooth surface means it won’t support the growth of moss. For homeowners with demanding lives, this is an essential selling point for rubber roofing as they can rest assured knowing roof maintenance won’t take up valuable time.

4.  Great Value For Money

The initial outlay of an EPDM roof may be slightly more expensive than the cheapest alternatives, however, due to its 50-year life expectancy a rubber roof will work more cost-effective over its lifetime. 

The quality and durability of rubber roofing is extremely similar to GRP however it doesn’t come with a hefty price tag making it a great value-for-money option.

5. Seamless Finish

Practical yet attractive. Rubber roofing comes in a one-piece membrane that is cut to size so each roof has a slick seamless finish.

Why Are Thousands Of Tradespeople Recommending Rubber Roofing Over Felt?

Not only does a flat roofing system have to work for your customers, but it also has to work for you. Rubber roofing isn't just loved by homeowners, it's loved by trade too, as it's been designed with both homeowners and tradespeople at heart.

Here's the top 5 reasons why tradespeople love using this material:

1. Easy To Learn & Easy To Do

Rubber roofing is known across the board as a system that’s easy to learn. Generally, you don’t need any specialist tools and there aren’t any expensive steep learning curves.

2. Quick Installation

The majority of rubber roofing systems are available in one cut-to-size piece which means small to medium-sized roofs can be replaced quickly and efficiently. When using Skyguard or ClassicBond the average freestanding garden room takes around 1:26 hours to fit, including trim installation. 

3. Minimal Wastage

The great thing about this material is the fact that it's cut to size, meaning wastage is kept at an absolute minimum.

4. Suitable For Most Projects

Most rubber roofs are available in multiple thicknesses making this material a great option for most projects. 

The versatility doesn’t just stop there, there are also fleeced reinforced membranes which are perfect for overlay projects. Green roofs and walkways are also not a problem as there are some rubber roofing systems that have glass fibre reinforcement along with a modified bitchumus backing. Check out our guide to compare the most popular rubber roofing systems in the UK so you can find the perfect system for your project.

5. No Flames And Toxic Fumes During Installation

EPDM roofing is cold applied meaning no flames are used during installation. Not only is this method of installation safer but it can also save you money as no specialist insurance is required.

The Bottom Line

Rubber roofing is quickly becoming one of the most popular, long-lasting flat roofing materials on the market. 

  • Homeowners love that they can get a durable yet attractive flat roofing material that won’t break the bank
  • Tradespeople love using a product that’s quick and easy to install without having to compromise on quality for their customers

We’ve made EPDM even easier with our Online Training Centre. Start your EPDM journey and get access to lots of free videos, step-by-step guides and manuals in just one click. 

  Online Training Centre

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