The Pros and Cons of Different Flat Roof Materials
Maxwells Roofing (owner-led, 80+ five-star reviews, 5.0 on Google) offers a clear, local guide to choosing the right flat roof for Milton Keynes homes and businesses. It compares materials, lifespans, costs, and compliance so you can pick the best fit for your budget and use.
At-a-glance recommendations
- EPDM rubber: Low maintenance, few seams; great for extensions/garages.
- GRP fibreglass: Clean, rigid finish; good for light foot traffic and neat trims.
- Torch-on felt: Proven, budget-friendly; multi-layer robustness with managed hot works.
- Liquid systems (PU/PMMA): Best for complex shapes, upstands, gutters; cold-applied.
- PVC/TPO single-ply: Fast on large areas; hot-air welded seams.
- Mastic asphalt: Ultimate durability and load-bearing; heavy and specialist-led.
- Green roofs: Biodiversity and rainwater control; structural checks and maintenance needed.
Flat roof basics covered
- Warm vs cold roofs, falls/drainage (design ~1:40), vapour control and ventilation.
- Insulation upgrades (Part L) often required when replacing >25% of the roof.
- Fire performance (BROOF(t4)) and safe/alternative methods for hot works.
Typical installed costs (subject to survey)
- Felt £70–£120/m²; EPDM £90–£140; GRP £110–£160; Liquid £120–£190; PVC/TPO £110–£170; Asphalt £140–£210; Green roof layers add £60–£150/m².
Building Regulations and approvals
- Parts A, B, C, F, L explained, plus when Building Control notification is needed. Maxwells can liaise with Milton Keynes City Council or an Approved Inspector.
Local service areas
- Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Northampton, Bedford, Luton.
Call for free advice and a fixed, itemised quote: 07311091804 or sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.
