ClassicBond EPDM Roofing: A no-nonsense guide

If you’re tackling a flat roof – maybe a garage, extension, garden room, or shed – you’ve probably come across EPDM rubber. And if you haven’t yet, it’s worth knowing about. ClassicBond EPDM is one of the most popular choices out there, and for good reason.

At Youngs, we stock it because it’s reliable, long-lasting, and once you know what you’re doing, pretty straightforward to fit. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it such a solid option.

So, what is ClassicBond EPDM?

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer – but don’t worry about the technical name. All you really need to know is it’s a type of synthetic rubber that’s designed to handle the elements.

ClassicBond is one of the best-known EPDM systems in the UK. It’s made from thick, single-ply rubber sheeting that can be fitted in one go, with no joins or seams on most roofs. Less faff, fewer chances of leaks.

Why do people like it?

Plenty of reasons. Here are some of the big ones:

• Lasts a long time: ClassicBond has a 35-year BBA certificate, and real-world installs have been going strong for over 50 years in some cases. Once it’s down, you shouldn’t have to think about it again for a very long time.
  

• Stands up to the weather: It stays flexible even in freezing temperatures and doesn’t go brittle in the heat. So whether it’s blowing a gale or baking in July, it holds up well.
  

• Easy to work with: ClassicBond comes in large rolls – often big enough to cover a whole roof in one sheet. You stick it down using adhesive (which we also stock), and it moulds to the surface underneath. No flames or heat needed.
  

• Low fuss: Unlike felt, EPDM doesn’t crack, blister or degrade in the sun. You won’t need to coat it or patch it every couple of years. A quick check and the odd clean is usually enough.
  

• Looks tidy: Once it’s down, EPDM has a clean, modern finish. It’s flat, dark, and doesn’t draw attention – which is exactly what most people want on a roof.

  
  

How do you fit it?

It’s a cold-adhesive system, so there’s no need for heat or flames, which makes it safer and simpler whether you're in the trade or just fairly handy around the house.

You’ll need:

• ClassicBond rubber membrane

• Water-based or contact adhesive

• Bonding tape for the edges and joins

• A broom or roller to press it all down nice and even

  
  

Make sure your roof deck is clean, dry, and in good nick before you start. OSB3 or plywood is usually your best bet.

Where can you use it?

If it's flat or low-pitched, you're probably good to go. Some of the most common jobs include:

• Garage roofs

• Extensions

• Sheds and workshops

• Garden rooms or offices

• Porches and dormers

• Guttering troughs or planters

  
  

Whether it's a new build or you're giving an old roof a new lease of life, ClassicBond fits the bill.

A Few Handy Tips

• Use the right adhesive – There’s a difference between water-based and contact adhesives. We’ll happily talk you through what goes where.
  

• Don’t forget the trims – Edge trims, corners, and outlets keep everything neat and watertight.
  

• Ask if you're unsure – Whether it's your first time or you’ve done a few roofs, we're always happy to give advice or walk you through what you’ll need.

What does it look like?

ClassicBond finishes in a dark grey colour, giving a clean, modern look, and because it's UV stable, it stays looking good for years.

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Prefer something slse?

Rubber's not for everyone, and that’s alright. We also stock GRP (fibreglass) roofing kits, which are another great option for flat roofs.

If you're not sure which way to go, just pop into one of our branches for a chat. We’ll help you figure out what suits your job best.