In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of using rubber roofing, how much rubber roofs cost, and its maintenance needs. We will also provide information on how to find a company to install the roof. Alternatively, you can fill out the form on this page to receive quotes from EPDM roofing companies.
EPDM rubber is a long-lasting and low-maintenance roofing material that is ideal for flat roofs. It is watertight, resistant to algae and moss, and can be easily repaired if it is damaged by falling branches or other accidents.
In contrast to traditional bitumen felt roofing, EPDM requires minimal upkeep and can last for decades. EPDM rubber is a durable and cost-effective option for roofing sheds, workshops, garages, or flat-roofed home extensions.
How much do rubber roofs cost?
With proper installation, it can last for up to 50 years. On average, the cost of installing a rubber roof on a 15 square meter single garage ranges from £900 to £1350, including labor costs. This works out to an average cost of £60 to £90 per square meter.
EPDM rubber roofs can be a cost-effective choice due to their longevity and low maintenance requirements. If you are looking to estimate the cost of replacing the roof on your garage, you can use the table below as a reference. While the dimensions may not match your specific flat roof, you can use the pricing information as a rough guide. Keep in mind that the cost of installing an EPDM rubber roof can pay for itself over time through its durability and ease of maintenance.
| Project Description | Dimensions | Duration | Material Cost | Labour Cost | Average Cost |
| House extension roofing | 30m2 | 2-3 days | £1,500-£2,000 | £800-£1,200 | £2,750 |
| Double garage roofing | 27.5m2 | 2-3 days | £1,400-£1,800 | £800-£1,200 | £2,600 |
| Single garage roofing | 15m2 | 1 day | £800-£1,200 | £400-£800 | £1,600 |
| Outer building roofing | 10m2 | 1 day | £600-£900 | £400-£800 | £1,350 |
Factors that affect rubber roofs cost
Although the rubber roofing prices provided in the chart are typical of small flat roofs, various factors determine the entire price. There are also some other costs to factor into the budget:
Roof size
The size of the roof is a significant factor in the rubber roofs cost. Larger roofs require more materials and labor, resulting in higher costs. On average, EPDM rubber costs range from £55 to £85 per square meter, while labor costs range from £25 to £45 per square meter.
EPDM rubber dimensions
There are various widths available for EPDM rubber, and it can be cut to fit the size of your roof. The thickness of the membranes typically ranges from 1.5mm, and they are available in widths from 0.5m to 9m in lengths up to 30m. Alternatively, you can purchase a sheet that is cut to fit your roof in one piece.
Type of project
The type of project can impact the cost of EPDM rubber roof installation. For example, a house extension roof may require more labor and take longer to complete than a garage or shed roof, due to the need for flashing and overlaps on the rubber upstand.
Accessories
In addition to the EPDM rubber membrane, you will need to purchase accessories such as adhesive, flashing kits, edge and gutter drip trims, and insulation fixings. These items can add to the overall cost of the project.
Ease of access
If your roof is an unusual shape or is too high to access safely, you may need scaffolding, which can cost from £30 to £50 per square meter.
Roof height
High roofs may require additional safety equipment, such as fall-arrest harnesses and safety lines, which can range in price from £50 to £350.
Waste removal
The old roof covering and EPDM offcuts must be disposed of according to national and local regulations through a registered waste handler. This can involve hiring a skip, which starts at £120 for a small skip and £150 per ton for waste sent to landfills. If you do not have space on your property for a skip, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authority, which costs £50 to £80, to leave it on the road.
Location
Roofing contractors in London and the Southeast may charge higher rates due to higher living costs.
Flat roof slopes
Flat roofs must have a slope of between 1:40 and 1:80 to ensure rainwater flows towards the guttering. If your roof does not have this slope, you may need to rebuild the roof timbers to comply with BS 6229 and BS 8217 building regulations.
Timber repairs
If the underlying structural timber and decking are not in good condition, they may need to be repaired or replaced before installing the EPDM rubber roof. This can add to the overall cost of the project. In addition, you may need to cover the structural timbers with plywood or Stirling Board to provide a smooth base for the EPDM rubber. These sheets typically cost around £30 to £40 each and measure 610mm x 610mm x 24mm.
Insulation
While sheds and garages may not require insulation, it is a good idea to install it in a new home extension. In this case, the roof must comply with the Building Regulations’ Approved Document A, Approved Document B, Approved Document L, and Approved Document 7, and may require foam insulation slabs between the roof deck and EPDM rubber covering. The cost of these slabs can range from £40 to £50 for a 25mm thick slab to £185 for a 150mm thick slab.
Benefits of Rubber Roofing
Although EPDM rubber roofing is still new in the UK, already customers find there are numerous benefits to make them a viable addition to their flat roofs.
Life span
Rubber is a long-lasting material that can be used to cover a variety of objects, including roofs. Under typical circumstances, EPDM will last from 30 to 50 years with a six-monthly inspection and maintenance programme. This can easily justify the rubber roofs cost that you will incur upon installation as it can provide a positive return over its lifetime.
Made to order
Although many EPDM manufacturers produce different width rolls, several also cut their rubber sheets to your exact specifications. As a result, you can normally cover the entire roof with one continuous piece of EPDM. This lowers the possibility of rain getting into places where the rubber sheet separates from the glue.
Moss and algae resistant
Synthetic rubber, such as EPDM, resists the formation of moss and algae, which can damage the underlying roof structure. This feature extends the life of the rubber and keeps the surface free of growth.
Lightweight
Because EPDM rubber is lightweight, it’s no bother to take a roll onto the roof and apply it oneself, although two persons would be simpler.
Maintenance and repair
If your EPDM roof covering sustains damage, you may rapidly fix it with repair kits and patches available online or through the manufacturer. EPDM is simple to repair if you’re comfortable with DIY and watch one of the many internet video guides.
Resistance to fire
Because EPDM rubber is fire-resistant, it complies with Building Regulations Approved Document B.
How long does it take to install rubber roofs?
Installing a rubber roof usually only takes a day or two, depending on the size of the roof.
However, if you have additional roof pipes that need waterproofing, like air conditioning vents or chimneys, it might take an extra day for the roofer to use flashing and EPDM to provide weatherproofing.
Keep in mind that a one-piece roof covering is usually faster to install and less prone to leaks than using multiple rolls. Just something to consider if you want the job done quickly and efficiently.
Tips to maintain a rubber roof
If you’re considering maintaining your EPDM rubber flat roof yourself, be sure to check the condition of the structural roof timbers and decking to ensure they are not rotting or water damaged. This is important because the roof may be unsafe to walk on if these components are compromised.
Additionally, be aware of the height of the roof and take proper safety precautions, such as using a stable ladder or scaffolding and a fall arrest harness. It is generally recommended to take these precautions if the roof is more than 2 meters off the ground.
If you do decide to proceed with DIY maintenance, it is often more cost-effective and easier to repair small holes or tears rather than replacing the entire roof. You can purchase EPDM rubber repair kits from various online roofing stores for around £20 to £30.
These kits usually include a self-adhesive patch that you can firmly press onto the damaged area using a roller. Before applying the patch, be sure to remove any loose or flaky material and secure any loose EPDM to the roof deck.
Keep in mind that it is generally recommended to hire a professional roofer for the best results.
