The Complete Roofing Buying Guide

1Introduction

The roof is one of the most critical elements of any building. Getting the specification right from the outset saves money, prevents defects, and keeps your building weather-tight for decades. This guide covers every major roofing product category and helps you decide what is right for your project.

2Pitched Roof Systems

Pitched roofs are the most common roof type in the UK. They typically consist of a structural timber framework, sarking felt or a breathable membrane, tiling battens, and a surface covering of tiles or slates.

• Concrete interlocking tiles — durable and cost-effective, ideal for most domestic pitched roofs.
• Clay plain tiles — a traditional aesthetic with an excellent lifespan of 60+ years.
• Natural slate — premium appearance with lifespans exceeding 100 years. Heavier, so check structural loading.
• Fibre-cement slate — a lighter, lower-cost alternative to natural slate that mimics its appearance.

3Roofing Underlays & Felts

The underlay sits beneath the tiles and is the last line of defence against wind-driven rain. Traditional roofing felt (BS EN 13707) has largely been replaced by modern breathable membranes which allow moisture vapour to escape from the roof space, dramatically reducing the risk of timber rot and condensation.

• Non-breathable felt (1F / 1E) — still permitted for cold roof constructions with adequate ventilation.
• Low-resistance breathable membranes (LR) — suitable for use in warm roofs without additional ventilation.
• High-resistance breathable membranes (HR) — used in cold roofs where some ventilation is still required.

4Tiling Battens

Tiling battens provide the fixing structure for roof tiles and must comply with BS 5534. Premier stocks graded SC3 and SC4 battens that are pre-treated with preservative to resist rot. Always select the correct thickness and width for your tile type and rafter spacing — your tile manufacturer fixing guide will specify this.

5Flat Roof Membranes

For flat or low-pitched roofs (below 10°), a different waterproofing approach is needed. The main options are:

• EPDM rubber — a single-ply membrane that is highly flexible, UV-stable, and typically has a 50-year lifespan.
• GRP fibreglass — rigid, seamless, and easy to install on awkward shapes. Common on bay window tops and garage roofs.
• Torch-on felt — a multi-layer bitumen system applied with a gas torch. Durable and cost-effective for large areas.
• TPO / PVC single-ply — lightweight and weldable at seams, ideal for commercial flat roofs.

6Gutters, Fascia & Soffits

Completing the roofline correctly is just as important as the waterproofing above. uPVC systems dominate the market due to their low maintenance and competitive price. For period properties, cast iron guttering is the authentic choice and offers a near-indefinite lifespan when painted regularly. Always size gutters to match the roof area being drained — our team can help calculate the correct capacity.

7Health & Safety on Roofing Projects

Working at height is the leading cause of fatal injuries in construction. Always use scaffolding or a properly rated Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP). Edge protection, safety nets, and method statements are required under the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Never work on a pitched roof using a ladder alone.