Flat Roofing in the Summer: How EPDM fares in hot weather

While it might not always feel like it here in the North, summer is here! Now is the time when many of us are getting down to their home repairs and improvements when we’re a bit less likely to get rained on! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, or need a bit more help when it comes to EPDM rubber roof installation, summer is a great time to replace your roofing or start on a new roof project. If you’re looking for a durable, affordable, easy-to-install roofing project this summer, EPDM flat rubber roofing is ideal.

Traditional Roofing Materials

Traditional felt roofs have been used for many years, though in the summer they are susceptible to “bubbling” or “blistering”, particularly as it starts to age. This results in cracks and tears that you likely can’t see until the leaks start, which is the last thing you need! Similarly, bitumen-based flat roof coverings can actually soften and melt in hot weather, leaving it open to cracks when the weather gets cooler again.

EPDM is a fantastic alternative to these roofing methods, as it can weather both hot and cold conditions far more effectively than traditional roofing materials.

Why Choose EPDM Rubber Roofing?

EPDM Rubber roofing is a strong synthetic rubber material which comes in sheets to quickly and easily apply to flat roofs. It is a man-made material that comes from vulcanised oil, diene and natural gas ethylene propylene. The vulcanisation process strengthens the rubber, making it more flexible and improves weather-resistant. In fact, EPDM rubber can stretch up to 300% before breaking, which allows it to expand and contract with the heat of the season without any risk of damage. It’s been proven to withstand temperatures ranging from -30 degrees Celsius to 120 degrees celsius, well within the average British summertime! 

Rubber roofing is lightweight, making it easy to install, but it is also thick and strong. This helps to repel heat in the summer, keeping your space cool and saving on air conditioning costs. It also absorbs warmth in the winter, making it perfect for those biting UK winters too!

EPDM is also very easy to install, great for smaller projects you might want to try yourself, or saving you time and money when you get a professional installer in. Plus, as EPDM rubber roofing is installed as a whole or single sheet, it’s not only easy to do, but actually offers you better waterproofing than many other roofing methods as there are no seams or lines where water could start to sneak in over time!

To find out more about EPDM rubber roofing, or arrange your flat roof installation in the Leeds and Bradford area, simply get in touch with Alvadac!