East Kilbride Roofing Materials

Roof Tiles

Roof tiles are still one of the most popular options for roofing and are available in many different styles, shapes and colours, both in concrete and clay. Clay and concrete roof tiles remain the most popular options for an inexpensive roof covering that requires minimal maintenance.

Clay roof tiles have been used for thousands of years. Not only do they provide strong protection from the elements, but they also look good. Having an absorption rate of only 6% means that they can remain lightweight.

Concrete roof tiles have seen a surge in popularity over the last 50 years. They adapt well, and their lower price point makes them attractive, especially to developers. On average, a concrete roof tile can last anywhere between 50-60 years. They are much heavier than clay tiles but will provide a low-maintenance finish and good fire resistance which will reduce the damage a fire could do to your property.

Slate Roofs

Slate roof tiles are incredibly durable and attractive. Experts believe that a well-maintained slate roof can last up to 150 years. Slate roof tiles are heavy, and the roof deck will need to be reinforced. Slate tiles can be used in a range of different applications and are available in natural slate and a range of man-made synthetic slate available in a variety of different colours. Slate tiles are environmentally friendly and produce very little waste as used slate is often recycled and repurposed.

Thatched Roofs

Thatched roofing is full of charm and has been used for centuries. Built in an open or closed construction, both types have their advantages and disadvantages. With renewed interest in our historic architecture, thatching is once again on the rise.

The three main thatching materials in use today are water reed (often known as Norfolk Reed), longstraw and combed wheat reed. Sedge, a grass-like plant which grows in wetland areas, is also used extensively in ridging.

A common misconception with thatch is that it absorbs large amounts of water. This is not the case as water is transferred down the roof from stem to stem until it drops from the eave. When designing for thatch, allowance should be made for the projection of the eaves and gables to project water clear of the building and the ground should be well drained.

Depending on the thatch used, the life expectancy will vary from 15 to 40 plus years.

EPDM Rubber Roofing

EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer) rubber roofing is a waterproof type of rubber, perfectly suited to cover roofs. Although it is not the cheapest option, it is one of the best materials for roofs. EPDM has a long lifespan and little maintenance is required. If you are looking for roofing materials for a flat roof, this is one of the best choices.

Although primarily used on flat roofs, EPDM is suited for almost every roof type and in most cases, this rubber roofing can be applied on top of the existing roof covering. As EPDM is waterproof and resistant to weeds, it is an ideal foundation for green roofs and roof gardens. The average lifespan of an EPDM rubber roof is between 40-50 years.

GRP Fibreglass Roofing

A properly laid fibreglass roof also known as GRP Roofing, will last for at least 30 years with no measurable deterioration. A GRP roofing system is made up of Glass Reinforced Polyester which is a composite material created by strengthening plastic with fine fibres made from glass, hence the name.

Although primarily used for flat roofing, GRP can be applied to virtually any type of roof build-up, including vertical details such as mansards, dormers, sloped roofs or parapet wall details.

Zinc Roofing

Zinc is an ideal standing seam roof material and can be applied to many different types of roofs. It comes in natural (bright), pre-weathered and pigmented finishes.

As a standing seam roofing material, zinc is an ideal choice for architects, designers and homeowners alike, particularly because it repels corrosion and combines durability with flexibility, making it easy to install.