EPDM vs Felt Roofing: Which Flat Roof System Is Best in Ireland?

Published: 2 July 2026
Reading Time: Approximately 15 Minutes

Introduction

Choosing the right flat roofing system is one of the most important decisions when constructing a new building, renovating an extension or replacing an ageing roof. While many roofing materials are available today, two systems continue to dominate the Irish flat roofing market: EPDM Rubber Roofing and Traditional Felt Roofing.

Both are designed to provide long-term waterproof protection and both have been successfully used on thousands of buildings across Ireland. However, despite serving the same purpose, they differ significantly in the way they are manufactured, installed, maintained and how they perform over time.

For decades, felt roofing was the standard choice for domestic garages, extensions and commercial buildings. Advances in manufacturing have greatly improved modern felt roofing systems, making them more durable and reliable than older bitumen roofs installed several decades ago.

At the same time, EPDM roofing has become increasingly popular among homeowners, roofing contractors and architects. Originally developed for large commercial projects, EPDM has earned an excellent reputation thanks to its outstanding durability, flexibility and exceptionally long service life.

Today, many new flat roofs throughout Ireland are installed using EPDM membranes because they offer a combination of long-term reliability and minimal maintenance that is difficult for many traditional roofing materials to match.

If you are deciding between EPDM and felt, the initial installation cost should not be the only factor influencing your decision. A flat roof is expected to protect your property from Ireland's challenging weather conditions for many years. Lifespan, weather resistance, maintenance requirements, ease of repair and overall value all deserve careful consideration before choosing the most suitable roofing system.

This guide explains the differences between EPDM and felt roofing in clear, practical language. Whether you are a homeowner planning an extension, a builder specifying materials for a new project or a contractor advising a client, this article will help you understand the advantages and limitations of each system.

By the end of this guide, you should have a much clearer understanding of which roofing solution best suits your project, your budget and your long-term expectations.

What Is EPDM Roofing?

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a highly durable synthetic rubber specifically engineered for waterproof roofing applications. Although the name may sound technical, the concept is simple: EPDM is a flexible rubber membrane designed to provide long-lasting protection against water, sunlight and changing weather conditions.

Unlike traditional roofing systems that rely on multiple overlapping layers, EPDM is supplied in large rolls that can often cover an entire domestic roof with a single membrane. Fewer seams mean fewer potential weak points, helping to create a more reliable waterproofing system.

Modern EPDM membranes are manufactured to withstand constant exposure to:

• UV radiation
• Ozone
• Heavy rainfall
• Frost
• Snow
• Strong winds
• Daily temperature fluctuations

One of the key characteristics of EPDM is its flexibility. Buildings naturally expand and contract throughout the year as temperatures change. Rather than becoming brittle, EPDM remains elastic, allowing it to move with the structure while maintaining a watertight seal.

Another important advantage is compatibility. A professional EPDM roofing system consists of much more than the membrane itself. It includes specially developed products that work together as a complete waterproofing solution, including bonding adhesives, primers, seam tapes, flashings, pipe seals, roof outlets, edge trims and installation accessories.

Using compatible components throughout the installation helps ensure the roof performs as intended for many years.

When professionally installed and maintained, an EPDM roof can provide an expected service life of more than 50 years, making it one of the longest-lasting flat roofing systems currently available.

What Is Felt Roofing?

Felt roofing has been used throughout Ireland for many decades and remains a familiar choice for many property owners. While older felt roofs often developed problems after years of exposure, today's high-performance felt systems are manufactured using improved materials and reinforcement technologies that significantly increase their durability.

Modern felt roofing typically consists of multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose. These layers work together to create a waterproof barrier capable of protecting the roof structure from rain and moisture.

Depending on the specification, a felt roof may include:

• Vapour control layer
• Underlay
• Reinforced intermediate layer
• Mineral-finished cap sheet

The finished system creates a durable waterproof covering suitable for many domestic and commercial applications.

Unlike EPDM, however, felt roofing relies on numerous overlaps between individual sheets. Every joint must be correctly formed during installation to ensure long-term waterproof performance. While experienced roofing contractors achieve excellent results, the larger number of seams naturally creates more areas that require careful workmanship.

Most traditional felt systems are installed using torch-on methods, where heat is applied to bond the material to the roof deck. Self-adhesive alternatives are also available for certain applications.

Modern felt roofing offers a practical solution for many projects, particularly where lower upfront costs are a priority or where an existing felt roof is being replaced with a similar system.

EPDM vs Felt Roofing at a Glance

This quick overview provides an initial comparison, but each category deserves a closer look. In the next section, we'll examine how both roofing systems perform over decades of use, how they cope with Ireland's climate and which option offers the best long-term value for different types of flat roof projects.

Buildon Recommendation

If you're considering an EPDM roofing system for your next project, choosing high-quality materials is just as important as selecting the right roofing type. Buildon offers a complete range of professional EPDM roofing products, including membranes, adhesives, primers, flashings, roof drainage solutions, trims and installation accessories, allowing you to source everything required for a complete roofing system from one trusted supplier.

Lifespan Comparison

When investing in a new flat roof, the expected lifespan of the roofing material is often one of the most important considerations. Although the initial installation cost is important, the overall value of a roofing system is determined by how long it continues to provide reliable waterproof protection without requiring major repairs or replacement.

This is where one of the biggest differences between EPDM and felt roofing becomes apparent.

Modern EPDM roofing systems are widely recognised for their exceptional durability. When manufactured to a high standard and installed correctly using compatible adhesives and accessories, an EPDM membrane can provide an expected service life of more than 50 years. Many EPDM roofs installed several decades ago continue to perform successfully today, demonstrating the long-term reliability of this material.

Modern felt roofing has also improved significantly compared to older bitumen systems. High-performance multi-layer felt roofs generally provide an expected lifespan of around 20 to 30 years when professionally installed and properly maintained.

Although both systems are capable of delivering many years of reliable service, EPDM generally offers a considerably longer working life, making it an attractive long-term investment for homeowners and commercial property owners alike.

Typical Expected Lifespan

*Actual lifespan depends on installation quality, roof design, maintenance and environmental conditions.

Because replacing a flat roof is a significant expense, many property owners consider the overall cost across the roof's lifetime rather than simply comparing the initial installation price.

Waterproof Performance

The primary purpose of any flat roof is to prevent water entering the building. Ireland experiences regular rainfall throughout the year, meaning roofing materials are subjected to continuous moisture exposure. A reliable waterproof membrane is therefore essential.

One of EPDM's greatest advantages is that it is often installed as a single sheet across an entire domestic roof. Fewer seams mean fewer potential areas where water could penetrate over time. Felt roofing, by comparison, is constructed from several overlapping layers.

While these overlaps are designed to create a waterproof barrier, every joint represents an area that depends on correct installation and long-term adhesion.

This does not mean felt roofs are unreliable. Modern felt systems perform extremely well when professionally installed. However, because they contain more joints, they generally require more regular inspection over their service life. For larger flat roofs, reducing the number of seams is often considered a significant advantage.

Performance in Irish Weather

Ireland presents one of Europe's more demanding climates for flat roofing systems.

Throughout the year, roofs are exposed to:

• Persistent rainfall
• Strong Atlantic winds
• High humidity
• Frost and freezing temperatures
• Summer UV exposure
• Frequent expansion and contraction caused by changing temperatures

A roofing membrane must continue performing under all of these conditions without losing flexibility or compromising waterproof protection.

EPDM has earned an excellent reputation in climates similar to Ireland because the membrane remains highly flexible even during colder weather. This flexibility allows the roof to accommodate normal structural movement without cracking. Its excellent resistance to ultraviolet light also helps preserve the membrane over many decades.

bModern felt roofing systems are also designed to withstand challenging weather conditions, but over time they may become less flexible than EPDM, particularly as they age. Both systems can perform successfully in Ireland when correctly installed, but EPDM generally offers greater long-term resistance to environmental ageing.

Installation Comparison

Installation methods differ considerably between EPDM and felt roofing.

EPDM roofing is installed using specially developed adhesives that bond the membrane securely to the roof deck. Depending on the area being covered, installers may use water-based bonding adhesive, contact adhesive or both as part of the installation process. Because EPDM is supplied in large sheets, many domestic roofs require only a single membrane, reducing installation complexity and minimising joints. Another advantage is that EPDM is a cold-applied roofing system. Unlike traditional torch-on felt installations, no naked flames are required during normal installation.

Modern felt roofing is commonly installed using torch-on techniques, although self-adhesive systems are also available. Torch-on systems require experienced installers and strict safety procedures due to the use of open flames. Both roofing systems require professional installation to achieve the best results, but many contractors appreciate the simplicity and clean installation process associated with EPDM.

Cost Comparison

Cost is naturally one of the first questions property owners ask when comparing roofing systems.

In many cases, felt roofing may have a lower initial installation cost than EPDM, making it an attractive option where budget is the primary consideration.

However, initial cost tells only part of the story.

When comparing roofing materials, it is important to consider:

• Expected lifespan
• Maintenance requirements
• Repair frequency
• Replacement intervals
• Overall cost over several decades

Because EPDM generally lasts significantly longer, many building owners find that the lifetime cost of ownership is lower despite a potentially higher upfront investment.

A roof that performs reliably for more than 50 years without requiring replacement can represent excellent long-term value.

Rather than asking which roofing system is cheapest today, many professionals instead ask which system provides the greatest value over the lifetime of the building.

Maintenance Requirements

One reason EPDM has become increasingly popular is its low maintenance requirements.

Routine maintenance generally consists of:

• Removing leaves and debris
• Checking roof outlets remain clear
• Inspecting flashings
• Checking edge trims
• Carrying out periodic visual inspections

Because EPDM does not become brittle under normal conditions, it generally requires very little ongoing attention.

Modern felt roofing also benefits from routine inspections.

Property owners should regularly check:

• Overlaps
• Flashings
• Mineral surface condition
• Drainage outlets
• Signs of water ponding

Regular maintenance helps maximise the lifespan of both roofing systems and allows small issues to be addressed before they become more expensive repairs.

Long-Term Value

While both EPDM and felt remain popular flat roofing systems, their long-term value differs considerably.

Felt roofing can provide an economical solution, particularly where lower installation costs are important.

EPDM, however, combines exceptional durability, low maintenance, excellent weather resistance and an expected lifespan exceeding five decades.

For many homeowners, extensions, garden rooms, garages and commercial buildings, these qualities make EPDM one of the strongest long-term investments available for flat roofing.

The best roofing system is not always the one with the lowest purchase price—it is the one that continues protecting your property reliably for decades while requiring minimal maintenance.

In the next section, we'll compare where each roofing system performs best, examine common roofing mistakes, discuss repairs and help you decide which solution is most suitable for your specific project.

Which Roofing System Is Best for Different Projects?

Choosing between EPDM and felt roofing is not simply about selecting the material with the longest lifespan. Every project has different requirements, budgets and performance expectations. Understanding where each roofing system performs best will help you make a more informed decision.

Garages

Garages are one of the most common applications for flat roofing in Ireland. As they are often exposed to the elements without the protection of surrounding buildings, choosing a durable waterproof membrane is particularly important.

EPDM roofing is an excellent choice for garage roofs due to its long lifespan, minimal maintenance requirements and excellent resistance to standing water and UV exposure. Many garage roofs can also be covered with a single EPDM membrane, reducing the number of seams and potential leak points.

Modern felt roofing also remains a suitable option for garage roofs, particularly where a lower initial installation cost is preferred. When professionally installed, it provides dependable waterproof protection and remains a popular solution for many domestic properties.

House Extensions

Flat roof extensions have become increasingly popular across Ireland, particularly with modern home designs that feature large rooflights, lanterns and outdoor living spaces.

Because extensions are directly connected to the home, many property owners prefer investing in a roofing system that offers maximum reliability and requires very little maintenance.

EPDM is often selected for extensions because it provides outstanding weather resistance, accommodates normal building movement and offers an exceptionally long service life.

For homeowners planning to remain in their property for many years, EPDM is frequently viewed as the better long-term investment.

Garden Rooms and Home Offices

Garden rooms, offices and studios have become increasingly common in recent years.

These buildings are expected to remain comfortable and weatherproof throughout the year, making roof performance particularly important.

EPDM roofing performs exceptionally well on garden rooms because it remains flexible during changing temperatures and requires very little maintenance after installation.

Its clean appearance also complements many contemporary garden building designs.

Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings often feature larger roof areas that benefit from wider roofing membranes and fewer joints.

Because EPDM is available in large roll widths, extensive roof areas can often be covered with significantly fewer seams than traditional felt systems.

This not only speeds up installation but also reduces potential areas where water could penetrate over time.

For schools, offices, retail units, warehouses and industrial buildings, EPDM has become one of the most widely specified flat roofing systems throughout Europe.

Common Causes of Flat Roof Problems

Regardless of the roofing material selected, most flat roof problems are caused by installation issues rather than defects in the membrane itself.

Some of the most common causes include:

• Incorrect roof falls resulting in standing water
• Poorly sealed roof penetrations
• Incorrect installation of flashings
• Inadequate edge detailing
• Poor adhesion between roofing materials
• Blocked roof outlets
• Damage caused during other building work
• Lack of routine maintenance

Choosing high-quality roofing materials is only one part of a successful installation. Equally important is ensuring that the complete roofing system is installed using compatible products and recognised installation methods.

Repairs and Long-Term Maintenance

Even the highest-quality flat roofs should be inspected periodically to ensure they continue performing as intended.

Fortunately, both EPDM and modern felt roofing systems can usually be repaired without replacing the entire roof, provided any issues are identified early.

Repairing EPDM Roofing

EPDM is generally considered one of the easiest flat roofing systems to repair.

Minor punctures, accidental damage or localised defects can often be repaired using compatible EPDM primers, flashing materials and repair tapes.

Because the membrane remains flexible throughout its service life, repairs typically bond well to the existing roofing material when installed correctly.

Regular inspections should include:

• Checking roof outlets remain free from leaves and debris
• Inspecting flashings around roof penetrations
• Examining edge trims for signs of movement
• Looking for accidental damage caused by maintenance work or falling branches

With routine inspections, many EPDM roofs continue performing reliably for decades without requiring significant repairs.

Repairing Felt Roofing

Modern felt roofing can also be repaired successfully, particularly when damage is limited to a specific area.

Repairs often involve replacing damaged sections of felt or applying compatible repair materials to restore waterproof performance.

As with EPDM, early detection is important. Small issues are generally much easier and less expensive to repair than problems that have been left unattended.

Environmental Considerations

Sustainability has become an increasingly important factor when selecting construction materials.

Both EPDM and modern felt roofing have improved considerably in terms of environmental performance, but there are some important differences.

Because EPDM has an exceptionally long service life, it generally requires fewer full roof replacements over the lifetime of a building. This can reduce material consumption and waste over several decades.

Many EPDM membranes are also recyclable at the end of their service life through specialist recycling programmes.

Modern felt roofing systems have also become more environmentally responsible than earlier generations, with manufacturers continuing to improve production methods and material efficiency.

When considering the environmental impact of a roofing system, it is worthwhile looking beyond manufacturing alone and considering the total lifespan of the roof.

When Felt Roofing May Be the Better Choice

Although EPDM offers many advantages, there are situations where felt roofing remains an excellent solution.

Felt may be the preferred option when:

• The project has a limited budget.
• The existing roof is already a felt system and like-for-like replacement is preferred.
• Local planning or specification requirements favour felt roofing.
• A particular multi-layer roofing specification has been designed by the project architect.

Modern felt roofing continues to provide reliable waterproof protection and should not be dismissed simply because newer materials are available.

When EPDM Is the Better Choice

For many residential and commercial projects, EPDM offers several significant advantages that make it the preferred roofing system.

EPDM is particularly well suited to:

• New flat roof construction
• House extensions
• Garage roofs
• Garden rooms
• Home offices
• Commercial buildings
• Schools
• Retail units
• Apartment developments

Property owners looking for long-term durability, low maintenance requirements and excellent weather resistance often find that EPDM provides the greatest overall value over the lifetime of the building.

The combination of exceptional flexibility, outstanding waterproof performance and an expected lifespan exceeding 50 years has made EPDM one of the most widely trusted flat roofing materials available today.

In the final part of this guide, we'll answer the most frequently asked questions about EPDM and felt roofing before summarising the key differences and helping you decide which roofing system is the right choice for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EPDM better than felt roofing?

Both roofing systems have their advantages, but EPDM generally offers a longer lifespan, fewer joints, lower maintenance requirements and excellent resistance to UV radiation and changing weather conditions. For many residential and commercial flat roofs, EPDM is considered the better long-term investment.

How long does an EPDM roof last?

A professionally installed EPDM roof can provide an expected service life of more than 50 years. Actual lifespan depends on factors such as installation quality, roof design and ongoing maintenance.

How long does a felt roof last?

Modern high-performance felt roofing systems typically last between 20 and 30 years when installed correctly and maintained regularly.

Is EPDM more expensive than felt?

EPDM may have a higher initial installation cost than felt. However, its longer lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements often make it more cost-effective over the lifetime of the roof.

Which roofing system is easier to maintain?

EPDM generally requires very little maintenance beyond periodic inspections and clearing leaves or debris from roof outlets. Felt roofing also benefits from regular inspections, particularly around overlaps and flashings.

Can EPDM be repaired?

Yes. Minor damage can usually be repaired using compatible EPDM repair materials without replacing the entire roof.

Can felt roofing be repaired?

Yes. Localised damage can often be repaired by replacing affected sections or applying compatible repair materials.

Which roofing system is better for Irish weather?

Both systems are designed to perform in Ireland's climate. However, EPDM's flexibility and excellent resistance to UV radiation, standing water and temperature changes make it particularly well suited to Irish weather conditions.

Can I install EPDM roofing myself?

Many experienced DIY enthusiasts successfully install EPDM roofing, particularly on garages, sheds and garden rooms. Following the manufacturer's installation guidance and using compatible adhesives and accessories is essential for achieving the best results.

Does EPDM require special maintenance?

Routine maintenance is straightforward and generally includes keeping roof outlets clear, removing leaves and debris and carrying out periodic visual inspections.

Is EPDM environmentally friendly?

Because EPDM has a very long service life and may be recyclable through specialist recycling programmes, it can reduce the frequency of roof replacement and material waste over the lifetime of a building.

Which roofing system is best for a garage?

Both systems can be suitable, but EPDM is often preferred due to its durability, minimal maintenance and ability to cover many garage roofs with a single membrane.

Can EPDM be installed over an existing roof?

Depending on the condition of the existing roof and the project specification, this may be possible. Always assess the existing substrate and follow the manufacturer's installation recommendations.

Does standing water damage EPDM?

EPDM performs well in areas where water may temporarily pond. However, good roof design with suitable drainage should always be the objective for any flat roof system.

Which roofing system offers the best long-term value?

Although every project is different, EPDM generally provides better long-term value due to its durability, lower maintenance requirements and expected lifespan exceeding 50 years.

Final Comparison

Expert Verdict

Both EPDM and modern felt roofing systems have earned their place within the roofing industry and, when installed correctly, both can provide dependable waterproof protection.

Felt roofing remains a practical solution for projects where lower upfront costs are a priority or where a like-for-like replacement is required. Modern felt systems are considerably more durable than earlier generations and continue to be widely used throughout Ireland.

However, when considering long-term performance, EPDM stands out in several important areas. Its exceptional lifespan, minimal maintenance requirements, excellent flexibility and resistance to Ireland's changing weather conditions make it one of the most reliable flat roofing systems available today.

For homeowners, contractors and commercial property owners looking for a roofing solution that combines long-term durability with excellent value, EPDM is often the preferred choice.

Why Choose Buildon for Your EPDM Roofing Project?

Buildon supplies a complete range of professional EPDM roofing products for domestic and commercial projects throughout Ireland.

Our range includes:

• EPDM Roofing Membranes
• EPDM Adhesives
• EPDM Primers, Tapes & Sealants
• EPDM Flashings
• EPDM Roof Drainage
• EPDM Trims & Edging
• EPDM Tools & Accessories

Whether you're installing a new garage roof, replacing an ageing felt roof or completing a large commercial project, you'll find everything needed for a professional EPDM roofing system in one place.

Related Buildon Guides

Continue learning with our other expert roofing guides:

• EPDM vs PVC Roofing
• EPDM vs TPO Roofing
• EPDM Roofing Costs in Ireland
• Complete EPDM Installation Guide
• EPDM Roof Maintenance Guide
• EPDM Roof Repairs Guide
• How to Glue EPDM Roofing
• EPDM Roof Outlet Guide
• EPDM Flashing Guide

Conclusion

Selecting the right flat roofing system is about more than comparing prices. It is about choosing a solution that will continue protecting your property for decades while offering the best balance of durability, maintenance and overall value.

Both EPDM and felt roofing are capable of delivering reliable waterproof protection when installed correctly. However, for many modern residential and commercial buildings, EPDM provides significant advantages through its exceptional lifespan, outstanding weather resistance and minimal maintenance requirements.

If you're planning a new flat roof or replacing an existing felt roof, taking the time to understand the strengths of each system will help ensure you make the right decision for your property.

For expert advice and a complete range of professional EPDM roofing products, explore Buildon's EPDM collection or contact our team for guidance on selecting the right materials for your next project.