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Is Fibreglass roofing better than EPDM
Well here's a question we get asked quite frequently.
In frankness it's all in personal perception and the project you are envisaging.
Both systems have first class waterproofing qualities.
So in a line the answer is yes and no - depends on circumstance really. Each system has its fans. Whose to say which is best?
Roofing Kits Direct provide both systems and so we are not biased. Below are appraisals of the two systems where we have tried not to be influenced by personal opinion nor rumour.
Remember your building or roofing contractor may have a preference - if so they are likely to do a better job using materials they are familiar with.


Life expectancy and Longevity.
Very good for both products, 25 - 30 years for fibreglass and up to 50 years for rubber. Rubber is more susceptible to accidental sharps damage and vandalism however both are easily repairable for isolated minor damages.
Certification
Fibreglass - NHBC approved, Fire retardent
EPDM - BBA approved - NHBC approved - Fire rated
Cost
Fibreglass costs a little more than EPDM, both are more cost effective in the long term than Felt. Fibreglass is better suited for foot traffic elements such as balconies and elevated decks. However Rubber can be easily over paved using geotextile fleece and paving slab supports.
Suitability
Fibreglass
Green roofs
Lightweight
Visually attractive
Colour options
Strong
Jointless under 50 sq.m
Complex shape compatible
Large roofs require expansion joints
No hot flame required.
EPDM
Green roofs
Lightweight
Flexible
Strong
Complex shape requires joins
Suits uniformly shaped roofs
No hot flame required.
Visually standard
Damage resistance
Fibreglass has a very high resistance factor even to vandalism - EPDM is very durable but may have issues with sharps and vandalism.
Repair Profile
Both are very easily repaired, done well a fibreglass repair is almost invisible. Rubber repair has a higher visibility.
Appearance
Fibreglass is first class and easily cleaned ans at RKD comes in Light and Dark Grey. Rubber is black, as you would expect and has a good clean appearance. Also rubber is easily cleaned
Both systems use edge trims to provide clean and professional looking finishes.
So let's look at the pro's and cons
Fibreglass
Pros
Visually
Complexity compatible
Foot traffic compatible
No joins
Resistant to sharps
Good repairability profile
Not hot flames required
Good Longevity
Small roofs good for DIY
Cons
More expensive than EPDM
Mandatory to be dry throughout installation
Mixing ratios to be considered
Large roofs require expansion joints
Rubber
Pros
Cost effective
Easy to install
One piece
Can be joined
Good repairability profile
Not hot flames required
Great longevity
Good for DIY
Cons
Complexity means joins
Requires additionals for foot traffic
Needs to be dry
Potential shrikage
Susceptible to sharps
Roofing Kits Direct believe both systems are very high quality and value for money, which is why we sell them. They can be installed easily by a competent DIYer when the roof is of small - med size. If the roof is straightforward EPDM installation is a little quicker.
RKD would express a preference for both these systems as opposed to felt - but then we would wouldn't we.