What Is Roof Waterproofing

Roof waterproofing is the set of layers, seals and details that prevent rain, snow and condensation from entering your home. On pitched roofs, waterproofing includes the breathable underlay beneath tiles or slates, as well as flashings, ridges, verges and valley details. On flat roofs, it is the main membrane system – for example EPDM rubber, GRP fibreglass, torch-on felt or a liquid-applied coating – together with upstands, terminations and penetrations around skylights, vents and pipes.

Done correctly, waterproofing protects your property from leaks, helps maintain structural integrity and supports healthy ventilation and insulation. The result is a home that is more comfortable, more efficient and less prone to damp or rot.

Need help fast – call 07311091804 for friendly advice and a free quote.

Why Waterproofing Matters in Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes and the wider Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire area see wind-driven rain, strong gusts and winter frosts that quickly expose weaknesses in older roofs and poorly finished details. Across Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell and nearby villages, we work on everything from older tiled properties to new-build extensions with flat roofs and roof lanterns.

Common local issues include:

• Ageing felt roofs that blister and split, leading to leaks after heavy rain.
• EPDM edges not properly terminated, causing wind lift at parapets and fascias.
• Insufficient upstand heights around skylights and roof lanterns.
• Cracked or missing tiles and failing lead flashings at chimneys and abutments.
• Condensation in loft spaces due to poor ventilation and inadequate insulation.

Fixing waterproofing problems early protects against damp, mould growth and costly structural damage. A thorough check of both the membrane and the small details is often the difference between a quick repair and a major re-roof later.

How Waterproofing Works – Flat vs Pitched Roofs

Flat Roofs

A flat roof needs a continuous, watertight membrane that drains to gutters or outlets without ponding. Key components include:

• Main membrane – EPDM, GRP, torch-on felt or liquid-applied systems specified for the building type.
• Roof deck – typically OSB3 or plywood, dry, sound and fixed to the correct specification.
• Insulation – often a warm-roof build-up above the deck to control condensation and improve efficiency.
• Upstands and terminations – sealed verticals at walls, lanterns and edges to keep water out.
• Falls – gentle slopes formed in the deck or insulation to move water to outlets.

Many MK extensions and garages benefit from warm-roof upgrades, which reduce condensation risk and help cut energy bills. We also pay close attention to outlets and box gutters, which are frequent leak points when not detailed precisely.

Pitched Roofs

On pitched roofs, the tiles or slates shed most water, but the waterproofing layer beneath is the breathable underlay. Critical details include:

• Breathable membranes that repel water but allow moisture to escape.
• Counter-battens and battens that create ventilation paths and ensure secure fixing.
• Flashings around chimneys, abutments and dormers in lead or lead-alternative materials.
• Valleys, ridges and verges installed to manufacturer guidance for long-term performance.

Good detailing on pitched roofs prevents hidden leaks that only show up as damp ceilings months later. We make sure the small items – ridge systems, fixings and ventilation – are right first time.

Fire Performance and Safety

Flat roof systems must meet appropriate fire performance for dwellings. We specify and install rated systems for domestic work and follow safe working practices at all times.

Unsure which system suits your roof – call 07311091804 and we will survey, explain options and provide a clear written quote.

Signs You Need Waterproofing or Repairs

• Leaks, stained ceilings or damp patches after rain.
• Blistering, cracking or splits on flat roof surfaces.
• Ponding water that remains for days after rainfall.
• Loose, slipped or missing tiles with underlay visible.
• Rusting, cracked or loose flashings at chimneys and skylights.
• Moss growth, crumbling mortar or perished sealant lines.
• Condensation in the loft or a persistent musty smell.

We offer same-day or next-day call-outs for urgent leaks across Milton Keynes, Bedford, Luton and Northampton whenever possible.

Our Step-by-Step Process

1. Free survey and advice – We carry out a visual inspection and, where helpful, a drone view. We identify the root cause and explain the best options in plain English.
2. Clear, fixed quote – Straightforward pricing with no hidden extras. We outline materials, methods and expected lifespans so you can choose confidently.
3. Regulatory check – If more than 25 percent of your roof is being refurbished or insulation is affected, we advise on the steps needed with Building Control and include this in our service where applicable.
4. Installation – Owner-led quality control by Luke Maxwell. We use trained roofers, premium materials and correct fixings, with tidy, respectful working on-site.
5. Detailing and testing – We finish upstands, terminations, outlets and flashings to manufacturer standards, then check water flow to outlets and gutters.
6. Sign-off and warranty – You receive a workmanship guarantee and any relevant manufacturer warranties, plus documentation where required.

Ready to book your free survey – call 07311091804.

Materials and Systems We Recommend

EPDM Rubber for Flat Roofs

• Excellent durability and UV resistance with typical life 20-30 years.
• Large single-piece sheets reduce seams and speed installation.
• Low maintenance and suitable for certain green roof build-ups with correct specification.

GRP Fibreglass for Flat Roofs

• Seamless finish with moulded edge trims for a clean look.
• Hard-wearing and suitable for light foot traffic areas.
• Attractive finishes available to complement modern extensions.

Liquid-Applied Waterproofing

• Cold-applied systems ideal for sensitive areas and complex shapes.
• Excellent for balconies, parapets, gutters and intricate penetrations.
• Typical life 15-25 years depending on build-up and product.

Torch-On Felt – Reinforced Bitumen Membranes

• Reliable multi-layer systems with strong performance when installed expertly.
• Great value for outbuildings and budget-led projects.
• Requires competent, safe installation for long life.

Pitched Roof Waterproofing

• Breathable membranes with correct battening and ventilation paths.
• Lead or modern lead-alternative flashings for chimneys and abutments.
• Optional dry-fix ridges and verges for improved storm resilience.

Every roof is different. We recommend systems based on property type, access, budget, lifespan goals and aesthetics – and we always install to the manufacturer guidance to protect your warranty.

Costs, Value and Lifespan

Final costs depend on access, size, build-up type, number of junctions and whether strip-and-recover is required. As a helpful guide for installed systems:

• EPDM rubber: typically £80-£120 per m²
• GRP fibreglass: typically £90-£140 per m²
• Liquid-applied: typically £70-£110 per m²
• Torch-on felt (multi-layer): typically £60-£100 per m²

For pitched roofs, costs are assessed per elevation and complexity, including valleys, chimneys and tile type. Replacing underlay during re-roofing may require insulation upgrades, which we will price transparently and handle as part of the project.

Investing in high quality waterproofing prevents damp, mould and structural decay and can lower heating costs when paired with correct insulation and ventilation. Most customers find that the long-term savings outweigh the initial spend.

Prefer a fixed written price – call 07311091804 to arrange a free survey.

Building Regulations, Compliance and Warranties

We plan and install waterproofing to align with UK Building Regulations and established best practice. In particular, we consider:

• Structure – We assess the deck and supporting structure, especially if adding new coverings or insulation. Fixings and loads are specified correctly.
• Fire safety – We specify systems with appropriate fire performance for domestic roofs and follow safe methods on-site.
• Resistance to moisture – Detailing and drainage protect against rain, snow and condensation risk.
• Ventilation – We design ventilation paths for pitched roofs and lofts to control moisture.
• Energy performance – If refurbishing more than 25 percent of the roof, insulation upgrades are usually required. We advise on U-value targets and provide warm or cold roof options.

Notifications – Where Building Control notification is required, we explain the steps, handle paperwork where applicable and include any associated costs in your quote.

Warranties – You receive a workmanship guarantee from Maxwells Roofing and manufacturer warranties where applicable, provided systems are installed to specification.

Why Choose Maxwells Roofing

• Local and family-owned – Based in Milton Keynes, serving MK and nearby towns.
• Owner-led standards – Company owner Luke Maxwell oversees workmanship on every project.
• Proven reputation – 80+ 5★ reviews on Checkatrade and 5★ on Google Business.
• Fast response – Same-day or next-day attendance for urgent leaks where possible.
• Clear pricing – Honest recommendations, no hidden extras.
• Fully insured and qualified – Trained team using premium materials and industry-approved methods.

From quick leak fixes to full flat roof refurbishments and complex detailing around lanterns and chimneys, we deliver watertight results that last.

Speak with Luke and the team today – call 07311091804.

Areas We Cover

Maxwells Roofing proudly serves:

• Milton Keynes – all estates and villages
• Northampton, Bedford and Luton
• Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell and Bletchley
• Great Linford, Bradwell and surrounding areas

Roof Waterproofing FAQs

Do I need Building Control approval for roof waterproofing work

If more than 25 percent of your roof is being refurbished or insulation is changed, Building Control usually needs to be notified. We will advise what is needed for your project and handle notifications where applicable.

How long does flat roof waterproofing last

Typical lifespans are EPDM rubber 20-30 years, GRP fibreglass 20-30 years, quality liquid-applied systems 15-25 years and modern torch-on felt 15-20 years. Lifespan depends on materials, installation and maintenance.

Can you overlay my existing flat roof

Sometimes. If the deck is sound and the current covering is suitable, an overlay can be cost effective. We inspect the roof first and advise whether overlaying or a full strip is best for long-term performance.

Can you waterproof around skylights, chimneys and lanterns

Yes. We renew flashings, upstands and terminations around details and penetrations to keep junctions watertight. These areas are common sources of leaks when not detailed correctly.

Will my roof need extra insulation

If you refurbish more than 25 percent of the roof, insulation upgrades are usually required. We assess targets and offer warm or cold roof solutions that improve comfort and help reduce heating costs.

How quickly can you attend a leak

For urgent leaks in Milton Keynes and nearby, we aim for same-day or next-day attendance. If weather prevents immediate permanent repair, we can make safe temporarily and return to finish.

What do your quotes include

A clear scope of work, materials, preparation, waste removal, any Building Control requirements and warranty details – with no hidden extras.

Get Your Free Waterproofing Quote

Protect your home with a watertight roof installed by a trusted local team. We will survey, explain your options, provide a clear written quote and complete the work to a high standard.

Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk

Maxwells Roofing – reliable, owner-led roofing services across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas.