Taking a look at the flat roofing and liquid waterproofing market in the UK
June 2023
Flat roofing is a popular roofing option in the UK due to its versatility, durability and cost-effectiveness. It is commonly used in both residential and commercial properties, and is particularly popular domestically for extensions and garages, but more importantly it plays a significant role in waterproofing commercial buildings. In this feature, Proteus Waterproofing, as one of the fastest growing suppliers of products and systems for flat roofing, explores the size of the market in the UK and explains why it will continue to grow.
The flat roofing market in the UK is a significant industry, with a range of materials and solutions available to meet the needs of different properties and budgets. According to a report by AMA Research, the flat roofing market in the UK was valued at £1.1 billion in 2020, with annual growth of 2-3% forecasted over the next few years.
One of the key factors driving the growth of the flat roofing market is the increasing popularity of modern construction methods and materials. Flat roofing solutions can be made from a variety of materials, including asphalt, felt, PVC, TPO, EPDM and liquid waterproofing systems. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of material will depend on the specific requirements of the project.
Another factor driving the growth of the flat roofing market is the increased demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly roofing solutions. Green roofing, which involves the use of vegetation and plants to create a living roof, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its environmental benefits. Other environmentally friendly options include reflective roofing materials, which help to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the building and therefore reduce energy consumption and costs.
In terms of market share, built up felt remains the most commonly used material for flat roofing in the UK, accounting for around 40% of the market. However, there has been a significant shift towards newer materials such as MMA and PMMA resins in recent years.
Liquid waterproofing is a popular solution for roofing and other applications due to its versatility, durability, and ease of application. It is commonly used in both residential and commercial properties, and is particularly popular for flat roofs, balconies, and walkways.
The liquid waterproofing market in the UK is a significant industry, with a range of products and solutions available to meet the needs of different properties and budgets. According to the report by AMA Research, the liquid waterproofing market in the UK was valued at £70 million in 2020, with annual growth of 3-4% forecasted over the next few years.
One of the key factors driving the growth of the liquid waterproofing market is the increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly roofing solutions. Liquid waterproofing systems are often applied in situ, meaning that they can be customized to the exact requirements of the project. This reduces wastage and helps to minimize the environmental impact of the roofing process.
Another factor driving the growth of the liquid waterproofing market is the increasing popularity of modern construction methods and materials. Liquid waterproofing can be used on a variety of substrates, including concrete, metal, and asphalt. It can be applied in both new and existing buildings, making it a popular choice for renovation projects.
In terms of market share, polyurethane remains one of the most commonly used materials for liquid waterproofing in the UK, accounting for around 50% of the market. This material is known for its durability, flexibility, and ease of application.
Liquid waterproofing solutions are commonly used in a range of applications, including flat roofing, balconies, walkways, and basements. The versatility of liquid waterproofing systems means that they can be used in a wide range of properties, from small residential buildings to large commercial developments.
In short, the liquid waterproofing and flat roofing market in the UK is a significant industry, with a range of products and solutions available to meet the needs of different properties and budgets. With the continued growth of the construction industry and increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, it is likely that the market will continue to grow in the coming years.