Flat Roofing in Worthing
Flat roofs on garages, extensions, porches, and bungalows are efficient and practical — until they fail. Ponding water, blistering, leaks, and deteriorating felt are expensive problems that get worse quickly.
What is Flat Roofing?
Flat roofs cover extensions, garages, porches, and modern bungalows. Unlike pitched roofs, they’re nearly horizontal (usually a slight slope for drainage), with a surface layer that sheds water.
The traditional material was felt — bitumen-soaked layers rolled out and sealed. Felt is cheap but fragile. It deteriorates in 10–15 years, becomes brittle in sun, develops blisters as moisture gets trapped underneath, and splits under movement.
Modern alternatives (EPDM rubber and GRP fibreglass) last 30+ years, perform better in Sussex’s coastal weather, and cost more upfront but save money long-term. The key to flat roof longevity is proper installation — correct slope for drainage, quality flashings around penetrations, and materials that won’t fail prematurely.
When Do You Need This Service?
- Visible leaks or water stains — on ceilings below the flat roof; urgent sign of membrane failure
- Ponding water — water sitting on the roof for days after rain; signals poor drainage
- Blistering or bubbling — air or moisture trapped under the surface; will eventually split and leak
- Cracking or splitting felt — obvious deterioration; often follows frost damage or sun exposure
- Moss and algae growth — traps moisture and accelerates decay
- Sagging sections — structural failure of the underlying joists; needs urgent repair
- Aging felt roof (10+ years) — approaching end of life; preventative replacement saves emergency repairs
- Adding a loft conversion or extension — improves energy performance of new structures
Our Process
Diagnosis & Survey
We inspect the roof for the actual problem (ponding? failed membrane? structural failure?). Leaks on flat roofs often come from poor flashings around pipes and walls, not the main roof surface.
Removal & Structural Check
We remove the old membrane and check timber joists for rot, which is common under failed felt. If joists are damaged, we repair or replace them.
Prepare the Base
We ensure proper slope for drainage (minimum 1-in-50 fall). This alone prevents ponding and extends roof life by years. We then apply breathable membrane for moisture management.
New Membrane Installation
We offer three choices: felt (budget option), EPDM rubber (best value for durability), or GRP fibreglass (premium, seamless). Each requires different installation techniques; we’re certified in all three.
Flashing & Detail Work
We flash around chimneys, pipes, and upstands with lead or aluminium, properly sealed and sloped. Poor detailing causes 70% of flat roof leaks.
Guarantee & Maintenance Advice
All work guaranteed for 10 years. We advise on inspection intervals and minor maintenance that extends roof life.
Materials We Use
Typical Cost Range
£1,000–2,000 felt | £2,500–4,500 EPDM | £3,500–6,000 GRP
Exact pricing depends on your property. Get a free, no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Our Customers Say
“Our garage roof had been leaking for two years. Jaysways diagnosed the problem (poor slope and failed flashing, not just the felt), replaced it with EPDM, and sorted the flashing properly. They explained every option clearly. No more leaks.”
Stuart M.
Worthing
Ready for Flat Roofing?
Get a free, no-obligation quote. We respond within 24 hours.