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Berks & Hants Roofing installs and repairs flat roofs on homes and commercial buildings across Berkshire, Hampshire and Wiltshire, including Reading, Newbury, Andover and Southampton. We work with GRP fibreglass, EPDM rubber, single ply membrane and felt systems, and we quote for both new installations and replacements of failing flat roofs. All work is carried out by our own directly-employed roofers — we don’t subcontract — and comes with a written guarantee of 10 years on our workmanship and up to 20 years manufacturers warranty.
The right material depends on the size of the roof, your budget, and how long you want it to last. Here’s how the main options compare.
GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) fibreglass roofing is a single, seamless, jointless waterproof layer applied on site and left to cure. Because it has no seams, it’s one of the most watertight flat roofing options available and typically lasts 25-30+ years with minimal maintenance. It’s our most-recommended option for extensions, garages and dormers.
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane supplied in large sheets, which reduces the number of joints on bigger roofs. It’s flexible, resistant to UV damage and extreme temperatures, and generally lasts 25-50 years depending on the product and installation quality. It’s a strong choice for larger flat roof areas.
Felt roofing is applied in layers (built-up roofing) and is typically the lowest-cost option, making it popular for sheds, garages and budget re-roofs. Standard felt roofs last around 10-15 years; high-performance modified bitumen felt systems can last longer. We can advise which grade of felt is appropriate for your project and budget.
Single ply membrane systems use a single layer of synthetic material (such as PVC or TPO) mechanically fixed or bonded to the roof deck. They’re commonly used on larger commercial and industrial flat roofs because they can be installed quickly over large areas and offer good fire and weather resistance.
Common signs a flat roof needs attention include:
If you notice any of the above, book an inspection before a small repair becomes a full replacement — trapped water under a membrane can rot the deck beneath it.
Lifespan depends on the material used and the quality of installation:
Correct installation — including falls for drainage, upstands, and edge trims — affects lifespan as much as the material itself, which is why poor workmanship is the most common cause of early flat roof failure.
Survey and Quote – We inspect the existing roof (or, for a new build, the roof deck plans), check falls and drainage, and provide a free, no-obligation written quote.
Strip Out and Deck Repair – Any existing failed covering is stripped back, and the timber deck is inspected and repaired or replaced where it’s rotten or unstable.
Installation – The chosen system (GRP, EPDM, felt or single ply) is fitted, including edge trims, upstands and drainage outlets, following manufacturer specifications so the guarantee remains valid.
Inspection and Handover – We check the finished roof, clear the site, and provide you with your written guarantee documentation.
Flat roof prices vary based on:
Don’t worry, we’ll fully explain the pricing in our transparent quotation so you know exactly what you are paying for!
When you choose Berks & Hants Roofing, you can be sure of a strong and durable Flat Roof Installation. We use the highest quality materials that last. This means that your roof will endure various weather conditions and provide robust protection for your home.
Q: What is the best material for a flat roof?
A: For most domestic flat roofs, GRP fibreglass and EPDM rubber offer the best balance of durability and cost, typically lasting 25 years or more. Felt is a lower-cost option suited to sheds, garages and budget projects, but it has a shorter lifespan of around 10-15 years.
Q: How long does it take to install a flat roof?
A: A typical domestic flat roof (such as a garage or extension) can usually be installed in 2-3 days, weather permitting. Larger or commercial roofs take longer depending on size and access.
Q: Can you repair a flat roof instead of replacing it?
A: Yes — if the roof deck underneath is sound and the damage is localised (a small crack, blister or failed joint), a repair is often possible and more cost-effective than a full replacement. We assess this during a free inspection.
Q: Do flat roofs need planning permission?
A: Most domestic flat roofs, such as those on garages, extensions and dormers, fall under permitted development and don’t need planning permission, but this can vary depending on your property and local council. We can advise during your quote.
Q: How often should a flat roof be inspected?
A: We recommend a visual inspection at least once a year, plus a check after any severe storm, to catch small issues like blocked drainage or lifting felt before they cause a leak.
Q: What’s the difference between a warm roof and a cold roof?
A: A warm roof has insulation above the roof deck, keeping the structure warmer and reducing condensation risk — it’s the standard build-up for new flat roofs today. A cold roof has insulation below the deck, which is more prone to condensation problems and is now less commonly specified.
If you’re just outside these areas, please give our friendly team a call as we aim to accommodate our customers as much as possible. We work right across Berkshire, Hampshire and areas of Wiltshire and Oxfordshire.
