Common Roofing Materials in the UK

Roofs apart from protecting your home from the elements also adds to the aesthetics of your property. Choosing the most suitable roofing material for your home can be challenging. Here we provide a useful guide to assist homeowners.
 
EPDM
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is made of rubber. It is a kind of synthetic rubber that is durable and used across many industries including automotive and construction. It is highly resistant to the elements or environmental factors. EPDM roofing is durable and waterproof. It is commonly used in flat roofs. EPDM are the best choice for flat roofs. It is fast and easy to install using the cold-applied and water-based adhesives.  
 
EPDM requires little maintenance and can last a lifetime. It is more expensive compared to other roofing materials but offers value for money as it lasts longer and does not crack. EPDM is considered the natural successor to traditional roofing which makes it an attractive prospect to homeowners. It is also very good for home extensions as well.
 
Thatched Roofing
Thatching comes from dry vegetation like straw or palm branches. If a roof has been professionally thatched it can last for more than 40 years. Due to degradation of the material used for the thatch it needs to be maintained or completely replaced from time to time. The ridge of the thatch should be replaced between 10 to 15 years. A thatched roof can be repaired but bear in mind that at some point it has to be replaced.
 
Thatched roofs add value to your property as such properties with thatched roofs are usually listed in the UK. It serves as a great insulator to keep the house warm in winter and cooler in summer. In addition, it is eco-friendly compared to other materials which may rely heavily on natural resources or are not sustainable resources.
 
On the other hand, the installation is a labour intensive process. It also requires a lot of maintenance including inspections on the overall condition of the thatch.

Zinc
Zinc roofs are very flexible and are used on roofs with unconventional shapes. They last particularly long. A zinc roof can last for 100 years in an unpolluted area. Zinc roofs are much cheaper than other roofing materials. Zinc roofs fits perfectly for round or spherical roofs.
 
Although considered old fashioned it has been staging a comeback lately. Zinc roofs adds visual appeal to your home giving it a unique appearance. In this age where preserving the environment is important, It can be recycled. Zinc roofs are corrosion, rust and moisture resistant as well. Major drawback is the cost of installation and it can be noisy during rainfall or thunderstorms.
 
Sloping Roof
Sloping roofs are common for most houses as it can drain water better than flat roofs. A roof with two slopes is called pitched roof or gable roof. Pitched roofs are the most popular roof shape in the UK. It is also a major staple of domestic architecture across Europe and the Americas.
 
A major advantage of pitched roofs is that they suitable for all building styles and offer extra storage or living space. In addition, it has a longer life span and offers protection against environmental hazards. It is also sustainable and offers the opportunity to reuse rainwater. The major drawback is that it is expensive to install and maintain.
 
Slate Roof Tiles
Slate roof tiles are one of the oldest roofing materials to have been used for centuries. Slate is a natural rock that is mined and cut to become a form of shingle. It is a long lasting product depending on the quarry.  There are two types of slates – natural slate and artificial slates. Artificial slates are very popular due to their competitive pricing.
 
Slate roofs are fire and mould resistant. It’s low water absorption makes it very resistant to frost damage and breakage due to freezing. In addition, it is durable and requires low maintenance with very little roofing waste. Slate roofs are energy efficient and come in different types and colours.
 
The major drawbacks is that it is heavy and may require reinforcement. In addition, it requires specialists to install and are expensive compared to other roofing materials. The price depends on the type of material and the surface.
 
Roof Tiles
There are a variety of roof tiles to choose from. Options include concrete roof tiles, clay roof tiles, and plain roof tiles. Clay tiles are baked and are extremely solid with a long life span. Concrete tiles are much cheaper than clay and have more variations and colours. Roof tiles are very popular and budget friendly as well.
 
Some of the advantages of roof tiles include they do not decay and not likely to rust. They are also energy efficient and help regulate indoor temperatures. They are low maintenance and long lasting. Some roof tiles are known to last for up to 100 years. The downside is that they are not easy to install. They are also heavy and not suitable for all roof types.