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What Material is Best for a Flat Roof in 2025?
- Elizabeth Skinner
- Aug 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 9
Flat roofs are common across homes, schools, housing blocks, and commercial buildings. But with so many materials available, it can be difficult to decide which is best. The right flat roof material depends on your budget, the size of your roof, and how long you want it to last.
In this guide, we compare the most popular flat roof materials, looking at their pros, cons, and typical costs, before sharing Premier Roofing & Construction Ltd’s recommendations.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a single-ply rubber roofing system. It’s lightweight, flexible, and highly durable.
✅ Pros: Lasts 40–50 years, easy to maintain, eco-friendly, safe installation (no flames required).
❌ Cons: Plain black appearance, edges must be finished carefully.
💷 Cost: Around £70–£110 per m² (installed).
👉 Best for: Large flat roofs, overlays, and eco-projects.
GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester), also known as fibreglass, creates a seamless, durable finish that can last for decades.
✅ Pros: Very strong, seamless finish, available in colours, ideal for balconies and terraces, 30–50 year lifespan.
❌ Cons: Requires skilled installation, can crack if poorly applied.
💷 Cost: Around £90–£150 per m².
👉 Best for: Balconies, terraces, or projects where appearance matters.
Bitumen felt roofing has been used for decades and remains a cost-effective option.
✅ Pros: Affordable, waterproof, widely available.
❌ Cons: Shorter lifespan (10–20 years), labour-heavy installation, less durable than modern options.
💷 Cost: Around £50-£80 per m².
👉 Best for: Budget projects or temporary solutions.
An upgraded version of traditional felt, torch-on modified bitumen is applied using a gas torch.
✅ Pros: More durable than standard felt, flexible, performs well in cold weather, lifespan of 20–30 years.
❌ Cons: Requires naked flame installation, so must be done by professionals.
💷 Cost: Around £60–£100 per m².
👉 Best for: Schools, housing blocks, and commercial projects needing long-lasting, cost-effective protection.
Green / Living Roofs
Green roofs are a sustainable option that use vegetation to cover the roof surface.
✅ Pros: Eco-friendly, natural insulation, attractive appearance, reduces energy bills, supports biodiversity.
❌ Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires a strong structure to support the extra weight.
💷 Cost: Around £80–£200 per m².
👉 Best for: Eco-conscious projects, modern developments, or roofs visible from above.
Regional note: In London & the South East, expect quotes toward the upper end of each range due to labour and access. (This pattern is reflected across multiple UK cost guides above.)
At Premier Roofing & Construction Ltd, we install a wide range of flat roof systems across Essex, London, and Kent. In general:
EPDM is the most low-maintenance and long-lasting choice.
GRP is ideal where appearance and detailing matter.
Felt (torch-on) is a cost-effective option for councils, housing groups, and businesses.
Green roofs are the best for eco-conscious projects or clients wanting a striking visual feature.
Because every project is different, we’ll always recommend the most suitable material based on budget, lifespan, and building use.
Final Thoughts
Flat roofs can last anywhere from 15 to 50+ years, depending on the material used and how well they’re maintained. The best flat roof material for your project depends on whether you want low cost, long life, visual appeal, or sustainability.
👉 If you’d like expert advice on choosing the best flat roof covering for your property, contact Premier Roofing & Construction Ltd today for a tailored recommendation and quote.
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