FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions — EPDM Rubber Roofing
Get answers to the most common questions about EPDM rubber roofing, flat roof kits, installation, delivery and our products. Can't find what you need? Call us on 02031510153 or email sales@rubberroofuk.uk.
Delivery & Orders
How long does delivery take? Orders placed before 2pm on a working day are typically dispatched the same day. Standard delivery takes 1-2 working days. Cut-to-size membrane orders may take an additional working day to prepare.
How much does delivery cost? Delivery is free on all orders to mainland UK addresses. We do not charge delivery regardless of order size.
Do you deliver outside the UK? We currently ship to mainland UK only. Contact us if you are based in Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands or an island location, and we will do our best to accommodate your order.
Can I track my order? Yes. You will receive a dispatch email with your tracking number when your order leaves our warehouse. You can also use our Track Your Order page.
What if my order arrives damaged? Contact us immediately at sales@rubberroofuk.uk with photos of the damage. We will arrange a replacement or refund promptly.
EPDM Membranes
What is EPDM rubber roofing? EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber membrane used as a flat roofing waterproofing material. It has been used on flat roofs since the 1960s and is now the most widely specified flat roofing material in the UK and USA.
How long does an EPDM roof last? EPDM membranes have a laboratory-tested and field-proven lifespan of over 50 years. This is several times longer than traditional bitumen felt roofing, which typically lasts 10-15 years before requiring replacement.
What thickness EPDM do I need? For sheds, log cabins and small garden buildings, 1.0mm is sufficient. For residential flat roofs including garages, porches, extensions and garden rooms, use 1.2mm. For commercial roofs, walkway areas or any installation where foot traffic is expected, use 1.5mm or 1.52mm.
What is the difference between ClassicBond and Firestone? Both are BBA-certified EPDM membranes of equivalent quality and performance. ClassicBond is manufactured in the UK; Firestone RubberGard is manufactured in the USA. Both carry a 50-year expected lifespan and are suitable for identical applications. Both are stocked by Rubber Roof UK.
Can EPDM be installed over existing felt? Yes, in many cases. The existing felt must be in sound condition with no blisters or loose areas. Our Fleece Reinforced EPDM system is specifically designed for overlay applications. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Is EPDM available in colours other than black? Standard EPDM membranes are dark grey/black. Some special-order colours are available but lead times apply. Contact us for details.
Does EPDM require maintenance? EPDM requires virtually no maintenance. An annual inspection is recommended to check for any physical damage from falling branches or foot traffic. The membrane itself does not degrade, crack or support moss growth.
Installation
Can I install EPDM myself? Yes. EPDM is one of the most DIY-friendly flat roofing materials available, particularly the ClassicBond water-based adhesive system. Our website features comprehensive installation guides, and our technical team is available to answer questions throughout your project.
What do I need to install an EPDM roof? You need: EPDM membrane (cut to size), bonding adhesive or water-based adhesive, primer (for some substrates), lap sealant, edge trims and fixing screws. Our all-in-one roof kits include all of these components.
What substrate can EPDM be installed on? EPDM can be bonded to most substrates including OSB3 (sterling board), plywood, concrete, timber, Trespa and most insulation boards. The surface must be clean, dry, dust-free and structurally sound.
Do I need a fall on my flat roof? Yes. Building regulations require a minimum fall of 1:80 (approximately 12mm per metre). EPDM can be installed on very low-pitched roofs that other systems cannot accommodate.
How do I deal with pipes and outlets? We stock pipe boots, drain outlets and other penetration details specifically designed for EPDM membranes. These are bonded to the membrane using contact adhesive and lap sealant.
Products & Pricing
Are your products BBA certified? Our ClassicBond and Firestone membranes both carry BBA (British Board of Agrément) certification, which independently verifies product quality, performance and fitness for purpose.
Do you offer trade pricing? Our pricing is available to everyone — trade professionals and DIYers alike. No trade account is required and there is no minimum order value.
Can I buy membrane by the metre? Yes. Our membranes are priced per square metre and sold cut to your exact dimensions. Simply specify your length and width when ordering.
Do you price match? Contact us if you have found the same product at a lower price from a UK competitor and we will do our best to match it.
Returns & Guarantees
What is your returns policy? We operate a 30-day returns policy on all standard stock items. Cut-to-size membrane cannot be returned unless it is defective. Contact sales@rubberroofuk.uk to arrange a return.
What if I order the wrong size? Contact us as soon as possible after ordering. If the order has not been dispatched, we can amend it. If the membrane has already been cut, it may not be returnable, so please measure carefully before ordering.
Is there a guarantee on the products? EPDM membranes from ClassicBond and Firestone carry manufacturer warranties. Our kits and accessories are covered by our standard 30-day returns policy and the manufacturers' own product guarantees.