Liquid Rubber Roofing vs EPDM — Flat Roof Waterproofing Systems
Liquid rubber roofing and EPDM are two high performance waterproofing systems widely used for flat roofs across the UK — including Greater Manchester, Stockport and the North West.
Both roofing systems protect flat roof structures from water ingress while providing long-term durability, water resistance and weather protection.
However, the two roofing solutions differ significantly in how they are installed, how they perform and where they are most appropriate. EPDM rubber roof membranes are sheet-applied, while liquid rubber roof systems are cold-applied as a liquid coating, making them ideal for roof repairs, complex details and refurbishment without stripping the existing surface.
Understanding the differences helps contractors and homeowners choose the right roofing system for their flat roof project — whether a new-build installation, a flat roof repair or a commercial roof refurbishment.
What system should you use?
The right flat roof waterproofing system depends on your project scale, substrate and application type. For projects in the North West — serving Blackburn, Preston and Manchester — these are the most commonly specified systems:
EPDM Rubber Roofing
Sheet membrane for residential flat roofs. Garden rooms, extensions, garages. Up to ~300m².
View EPDMLiquid Rubber HBS200
Cold-applied brush/roller system for roof repairs, gutters, joints, complex areas and refurbishment.
View Liquid RubberSprayGrade
Spray-applied liquid rubber for warehouses, factories and large commercial roofs. Approximately 600m² per day under suitable conditions.
View SprayGradeWhat Is EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing is a synthetic rubber membrane commonly used for flat roof waterproofing.
The membrane is supplied in sheets which are adhered or mechanically fixed to the roof structure beneath.
EPDM is widely used for domestic flat roofs, extensions and new-build roofing systems due to its durability and long service life.
What Is Liquid Rubber Waterproofing
Liquid rubber waterproofing systems use liquid-applied coatings that cure to form a seamless elastomeric membrane.
Because the coating is applied as a liquid, it can conform to the roof surface beneath, sealing joints, penetrations and complex details.
Liquid rubber systems are commonly used for flat roof repair, refurbishment and waterproofing projects where a seamless membrane is required.
Key Differences Between Liquid Rubber and EPDM
When Liquid Rubber Is the Better Option
Liquid rubber waterproofing is often the preferred solution for roof repair and refurbishment projects.
Because the coating is applied as a liquid, it can be installed across existing roof structures without the need to remove the original roofing system.
This allows contractors to restore waterproofing performance quickly while minimising disruption to the building beneath.
What About SprayGrade? — The Commercial Option
When comparing liquid rubber vs EPDM for large commercial projects, a third system often enters the picture: SprayGrade spray-applied liquid rubber. As UK importer and distributor, Forti Nova supplies and installs SprayGrade for large-scale commercial roof refurbishment.
Best system for each scenario
Garden room or extension (up to 100m²)
EPDM — single sheet, cold applied, 50+ year lifespan
Flat roof repair or complex detailing
Liquid Rubber HBS200 — brush/roller applied, bonds over existing surfaces
Commercial roof 300m²+
SprayGrade — approximately 600m² per day under suitable conditions, ideal for warehouses and logistics units
Real-world example
A typical 1,000m² warehouse roof can be completed in 2–3 days using SprayGrade. The same roof using manual liquid rubber brush application would take 2–3 weeks.
HBS200 Liquid Rubber Waterproofing System
HBS200 is a professional liquid rubber waterproofing system designed for flat roof repair and refurbishment.
The coating forms a seamless elastomeric membrane that adheres to the roof surface beneath while remaining flexible and resistant to weather exposure.
Working on a commercial roofing project?
SprayGrade spray-applied liquid rubber has a typical output of approximately 600m² per day under suitable conditions. Preparation, access, detailing and weather determine the actual programme. Forti Nova is the UK importer and distributor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between liquid rubber and EPDM?
EPDM is supplied as sheet membrane roofing that requires seams and jointing systems. Liquid rubber is applied as a liquid coating that cures to form a seamless membrane with no joints across the roof surface.
Is liquid rubber better than EPDM?
Neither system is universally 'better'—each has advantages depending on the project. Liquid rubber is superior for repair and refurbishment projects because it can be applied directly across existing structures. EPDM is commonly used for new-build projects where sheet membrane installation is preferred.
Can liquid rubber be applied over EPDM?
Yes. Liquid rubber coatings can often be applied directly over existing EPDM membranes to extend the service life of the roof. This approach allows for roof refurbishment without removing the original membrane.
Which system lasts longer—liquid rubber or EPDM?
Both systems typically provide 15–20+ years of waterproof protection with proper installation and maintenance. Longevity depends more on environmental exposure, installation quality and maintenance practices than the system type.
Are liquid rubber and EPDM roofing suitable for the same applications?
Both systems are used for flat roof waterproofing, but they excel in different scenarios. Liquid rubber is preferred for repairs and refurbishment. EPDM is commonly used for new-build projects and straightforward flat roof installations.
Related Systems
Explore the related structural systems, waterproofing technologies and exterior finishes used across modern garden room construction and flat roof waterproofing projects.
Structural Systems
Waterproofing Systems
Exterior Finishes
Technical Resources
Forti Nova supplies EPDM, Liquid Rubber and SprayGrade systems across the North West — serving Blackburn, Preston, Manchester, Bolton, Wigan and Warrington from our Blackburn depot.
Need help choosing the right system?
Call our team or use our guided project enquiry — we'll recommend the right system based on your roof type, size and project requirements.
Related Roofing Systems & Guides
EPDM Rubber Roofing
FlexiProof EPDM membranes from £8.65/m² ex VAT. Full adhesive, trim and flashing system available.
Liquid Rubber HBS200
Cold-applied liquid rubber roof system. 850% elongation, 25-year warranty, zero VOC.
SprayGrade Commercial
Spray-applied liquid rubber for large flat roofs. approximately 600m²/day under suitable conditions. 15-year warranty.
North West Coverage
Roofing System Comparison & Selection Across the North West
Forti Nova supplies both liquid rubber and EPDM roofing systems to contractors, building owners and homeowners across the North West including Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and West Yorkshire. Operating from our Blackburn depot and showroom.
View HBS200 SystemDiscuss Your Roofing Project
Call our team to discuss which roofing system is best suited to your project.
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