Single Ply Roofing Membrane - Advice

[ENES]

We’re currently having a single story extension constructed & planning on installing a single ply flat roof membrane (such as Sarnafil).
I appreciate that single ply roofing can be costly, but we look out onto the new flat roof from the main bedrooms above, so would rather spend a bit more to get a decent looking roof finish, rather than look out onto a sea of 3 layer felt.

I know that as with any roofing system, the product relies heavily on correct installation – so I’m just looking for some advice from anyone who has experience of installing or having installed, a similar roof system.

Would be great to get some feedback on :-

• Likely installation cost per m²
• Recommendations for roofing contractors in West Surrey area
• Recommendations for Single Ply membrane system / manufacturer
• Experiences (good & bad) with single ply installations

Any feedback or advice would be gratefully received.
Thanks.

[bomberman]

There are many options with a roof covering and would suggest to explore as many options as possible.
Single ply membranes can come with a host of issues mostly due to its installation. I’ve had 2 site where the whole roof covering has blown off, many sites with leaks and 3 failed attempts to claim on the warranties.
You need to check the small print and check the terms and conditions of the warranty.
I personally have opted for a 3 layer bitumen covering.
SPM look fantastic, however it’s not until you have to deal with issues with them that you realise that its not as good as the marketing material states.

B

[tz-uk73]

I had 40sqm done in 3 layer felt and providing the installer is good it will look just as good as any other flat roof covering.

Just for info I weighed up a fibreglass roof and nearly went for it until my neighbour warned me that his creaks and moans all day as it expands and contracts in the heat.

[mk1974]

We use Firestone rubber,not experienced many problems,but if there is a problem it’s usually to do with external corners on things like skylights.
You have to put a patch on the corners and on the odd time we’ve had a couple of corners come unstuck on the edges,never complete failure.
Once finished they look a lot better than most 3 layer felt roofs .


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[noTAGlove]

We, or should I say our builder used GRP for our flat roof extension. All is good 5 years on, and when we had trouble with one of our rooflights, easy to patch.

[chrisparker]

I’m a partner in a building firm and also a roofing materials supplier. I would recommend GRP with a fire rated top coat. GRP is the only true seamless system and if it’s good enough for boats, it’s good enough for roofs.

Get a flat roof specialist to fit your roof. Most roofers and builders will tell you they can do it, but only those doing it every day do it well.

Good quality materials will come with a 20 year guarantee, and a reputable firm will offer an insurance backed guarantee in case they’re no longer trading.

[chrisparker]

Also check with building control about insulation, most of our roofs are warm roofs which have 150mm kingspan sandwiched between two OSB boards.

[Bonzodog]

Fibreglass roof on our porch is thirty years old,wash it every year and check for damage.It’s still as good as new.

[ENES]

Thanks for all the input.

I'm going to have a bit more of a look into the EPDM rubber roof option, as that may be more cost effective than a Sarnafil roof & look better than 3 layer felt.

[mk1974]

Sarnafil used to be expensive has you had to be an accredited fitter.


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[ENES]

Also considering the Protec System by Polyroof - anyone have any experience with this one??

[chrisparker]

Also considering the Protec System by Polyroof - anyone have any experience with this one??

Polyroof's just another brand name for GRP / Fibreglass. Along with CrysticRoof, Restec, Topseal, TuffStuff CureIt and so on.

Each roofer will use a material they prefer, so pick your roofer based on the quality of their work rather than seeking one out that uses a brand you prefer.

[Gee252]

Thanks for all the input.

I'm going to have a bit more of a look into the EPDM rubber roof option, as that may be more cost effective than a Sarnafil roof & look better than 3 layer felt.

I have a EPDM roof on a garden building been on 4 years, gets full sun in summer and never had any issues with it.
Again it all depends on the installation and preparation as you don’t want it full bubbling


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