About Our Roof Membrane Process in Cork
EPDM Rubber Membrane
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a high-performance synthetic rubber membrane trusted on flat roofs worldwide. We install the Firestone RubberCover system — the industry benchmark for EPDM roofing.
Why Choose EPDM:
- Outstanding 25-50 year lifespan
- Single-piece installation on most domestic roofs (no seams)
- Highly flexible — handles building movement and thermal expansion
- UV resistant and weatherproof
- Performs in all temperatures (-40°C to +120°C)
- Environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable
- Very low maintenance once installed
- Manufacturer warranty plus our 20-year guarantee
Best Applications:
- Flat roof extensions
- Garage roofs
- Garden rooms and outbuildings
- Dormer roofs
- Larger commercial flat roofs
- Green roof underlayment
| Specification | Detail |
|---|
| Lifespan | 25-50 years |
| Material | Synthetic rubber |
| Installation | Adhesive bonded (no heat/flames) |
| Maintenance | Very low |
System we install: Firestone RubberCover (certified installer)
Fibreglass GRP Membrane
GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) creates a completely seamless, rigid waterproof surface. We install the Cure It system — a market-leading fibreglass flat roof solution.
Why Choose Fibreglass GRP:
- Completely seamless finish — no joints, no weak points
- 25-40 year lifespan
- Extremely durable and impact-resistant
- Can be walked on regularly
- Available in multiple colours (grey, green, black, and more)
- UV stable — maintains appearance over decades
- Ideal for balconies and roof terraces
- Creates a solid, firm surface
- Manufacturer warranty plus our 20-year guarantee
Best Applications:
- Flat roof extensions
- Dormers and bay window roofs
- Balconies and roof terraces
- Garage roofs
- Porches and canopies
- Any flat roof requiring foot traffic
| Specification | Detail |
|---|
| Lifespan | 25-40 years |
| Material | Glass reinforced polyester |
| Installation | Layered resin and matting |
| Maintenance | Very low |
System we install: Cure It GRP (certified installer)
Torch-On Felt Membrane
Modern torch-applied bituminous membrane — a proven flat roof system offering reliable protection at an accessible price point.
Why Choose Torch-On Felt:
- Cost-effective membrane solution
- Proven technology with decades of use
- 15-25 year lifespan
- Multi-layer system for added protection
- Good performance in Irish climate
- Straightforward repairs if ever needed
- Suitable for a wide range of structures
Best Applications:
- Garage roofs
- Sheds and outbuildings
- Budget-conscious flat roof projects
- Commercial and industrial buildings
- Roof refurbishment over existing felt
| Specification | Detail |
|---|
| Lifespan | 15-25 years |
| Material | Modified bitumen |
| Installation | Heat-welded layers |
| Maintenance | Low-medium |
Liquid Applied Membrane
Liquid waterproofing systems that cure to form a seamless rubber coating. Ideal for complex roof shapes and refurbishment projects.
Why Choose Liquid Membrane:
- Seamless application over any shape
- Excellent for roofs with multiple penetrations
- Can be applied over existing surfaces
- 20-25 year lifespan
- Flexible and crack-resistant
- Quick application and curing
- Ideal for refurbishment without full tear-off
Best Applications:
- Complex roof shapes with multiple details
- Roofs with many penetrations (pipes, vents, skylights)
- Refurbishment over existing membranes
- Difficult access areas
- Maintenance coatings on aging flat roofs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|
| Lifespan | 20-25 years |
| Material | Polyurethane or acrylic liquid |
| Installation | Roller or spray applied |
| Maintenance | Low |
When Do You Need a Roof Membrane?
New Flat Roof Construction
Building an extension, garage, garden room, or any structure with a flat or low-pitch roof? A quality membrane system is essential. We recommend EPDM or GRP for new builds — both offer 25+ year lifespans with minimal maintenance.
Flat Roof Replacement
If your existing flat roof is failing, a new membrane system provides long-term protection. Signs you need replacement:
- Water pooling that doesn’t drain within 48 hours
- Visible cracks, splits, or blistering
- Water stains on ceilings below
- Felt lifting or peeling at edges
- Multiple previous patch repairs
- Roof is 15-20+ years old
Flat Roof Upgrade
Upgrading from old felt to a modern membrane system transforms your flat roof’s performance. EPDM and GRP last 2-3 times longer than traditional felt and require far less maintenance.
Commercial Flat Roofing
We install membrane systems on commercial properties including offices, warehouses, retail units, and industrial buildings. EPDM is particularly suited to larger commercial roofs.
Roof Membrane Installation Process
Step 1: Survey & Assessment
We inspect your existing roof (or new structure) to assess:
- Roof dimensions and layout
- Current condition and any damage
- Drainage and water flow
- Access requirements
- Insulation needs
- The most suitable membrane system
This survey is free with no obligation.
Step 2: Quotation
You receive a detailed written quote including:
- Recommended membrane system and why
- All materials and specifications
- Labour and installation costs
- Scaffolding/access if required
- Insulation upgrades (if applicable)
- Waste removal
- Project timeline
- Guarantee terms
No hidden costs — the price quoted is the price you pay.
Step 3: Preparation
Before membrane installation, we prepare the roof surface:
- Remove existing failed roofing material (if replacement)
- Inspect and repair timber decking
- Install new OSB boarding if required
- Fit appropriate insulation
- Ensure correct falls for drainage
- Install upstands and edge trims
Proper preparation is essential for membrane longevity.
Step 4: Membrane Installation
Our certified installers apply your chosen membrane system:
EPDM Installation:
- Adhesive applied to deck and membrane
- Single-piece membrane positioned and bonded
- Edges and details carefully sealed
- Trims and termination bars fitted
GRP Installation:
- Trims and edge details fitted first
- Resin and fibreglass matting applied in layers
- Additional layers at edges and stress points
- Top coat applied for UV protection and colour
Torch-On Installation:
- Base layer bonded to prepared deck
- Cap sheet torch-applied with overlapping seams
- Details and upstands carefully sealed
- Mineral finish or coating applied
Step 5: Quality Checks & Handover
On completion:
- Full inspection of all seams, edges, and details
- Water test if appropriate
- Clean-up and debris removal
- Walk-through with you to explain the installation
- Manufacturer warranty documentation
- Keystone 20-year workmanship guarantee
- Care and maintenance guidance
Roof Membrane Costs in Cork
Indicative pricing for membrane systems supplied and installed:
| System | Cost per m² (installed) | Typical Garage (15m²) | Typical Extension (25m²) |
|---|
| EPDM Rubber | €70-€100 | €1,050-€1,500 | €1,750-€2,500 |
| Fibreglass GRP | €80-€120 | €1,200-€1,800 | €2,000-€3,000 |
| Torch-On Felt | €50-€70 | €750-€1,050 | €1,250-€1,750 |
| Liquid Membrane | €60-€90 | €900-€1,350 | €1,500-€2,250 |
Prices include deck preparation, membrane, trims, and standard details. Costs vary based on access, complexity, and whether existing materials need removal. Insulation upgrades are additional. Contact us for an accurate quote.
Which Membrane System Is Right for You?
By Application
| Application | Recommended System |
|---|
| House extension | EPDM or GRP |
| Garage roof | EPDM, GRP, or torch-on |
| Dormer roof | GRP (seamless finish) |
| Balcony/roof terrace | GRP (walkable surface) |
| Garden room | EPDM or GRP |
| Large commercial roof | EPDM |
| Outbuilding/shed | Torch-on felt |
| Complex shape with penetrations | Liquid membrane |
| Refurbishment over existing | Liquid membrane or EPDM overlay |
By Priority
Maximum lifespan: EPDM rubber (up to 50 years)
Seamless appearance: Fibreglass GRP
Walkable surface: Fibreglass GRP
Largest roof areas: EPDM rubber
Budget-conscious: Torch-on felt
Complex roof shapes: Liquid membrane
Fastest installation: EPDM rubber
Why Choose Keystone Roofing for Membrane Installation
Certified Installers
We are certified installers for both Firestone EPDM and Cure It GRP systems. This certification means:
- We’ve completed manufacturer training
- We follow approved installation methods
- Manufacturer warranties are valid
- You receive documented proof of certified installation
Experienced Team
Our installers have fitted hundreds of membrane roofs across Cork. We understand the details that make the difference — proper edge termination, correct adhesive application, handling penetrations, and ensuring adequate drainage.
Quality Materials Only
We use manufacturer-approved materials throughout. No shortcuts, no budget substitutes. Quality materials properly installed deliver the 25-50 year lifespans these systems are designed for.
Complete Service
We handle everything: survey, quotation, preparation, installation, and aftercare. One contractor, one point of contact, one guarantee covering everything.
Genuine Guarantees
Every installation comes with:
- Manufacturer product warranty (typically 10-20 years)
- Keystone 20-year workmanship guarantee
- Documentation for your records and future sale
Roof Membrane Maintenance
Modern membrane systems require very little maintenance:
Annual Checks:
- Clear any debris (leaves, moss, dirt)
- Check drainage outlets are clear
- Inspect edges and upstands
- Look for any obvious damage
EPDM Specific:
- Keep membrane clean for best appearance
- Check seams remain bonded (rare issue with quality installation)
GRP Specific:
- Very low maintenance
- Clean occasionally for best appearance
- Check trim seals
General:
- Don’t drag heavy items across membrane
- Use walkway pads for regular foot traffic areas
- Address any issues promptly before they develop
We’re available for maintenance checks and any repairs needed throughout the life of your roof.
Areas We Cover
We install roof membranes throughout Cork and Tipperary:
Cork City & Suburbs: Cork City, Douglas, Ballincollig, Carrigaline, Glanmire, Rochestown, Blackrock, Bishopstown, Wilton, Togher
North Cork: Mallow, Fermoy, Mitchelstown, Charleville, Buttevant
East Cork: Cobh, Midleton, Youghal, Carrigtwohill, Whitegate
West Cork: Bandon, Kinsale, Clonakilty, Skibbereen, Macroom
Tipperary: Clonmel, Thurles, Nenagh, Tipperary Town, Cashel, Cahir, Carrick-on-Suir
