Garage roofs get abused more than most parts of a house. They sit low, take the full force of wind and rain, and (because it’s “only the garage”) problems are often ignored until the timber starts rotting or the whole roof feels spongy underfoot.
This page covers:
- the most common garage roof types in the UK
- what usually goes wrong (and what you can do about it)
- repair vs replacement: how to decide
- material options (felt, EPDM rubber, GRP fibreglass, sheets)
- what to do if your garage roof might contain asbestos
1) What type of garage roof do you have?
Most UK garages fall into one of these categories:
Flat (or low-pitch) garage roofs
Common coverings include:
- Felt (traditional mineral felt / torch-on systems)
- EPDM rubber (single-piece rubber membrane)
- GRP fibreglass (resin + glass mat system)
Pitched garage roofs
Less common, but you’ll see:
- tiles/slates on a timber structure
- corrugated sheet roofs on older garages/outbuildings
Older corrugated cement sheets (possible asbestos)
If your garage roof is old corrugated grey sheets, it may be asbestos cement (especially on older garages/sheds). If you’re not sure, treat it as suspect until proven otherwise.
2) Common garage roof problems (and what they usually mean)
Leaks after heavy rain
Often caused by:
- splits/cracks in old felt
- failed joins at edges
- lifted trims or weak detailing around the perimeter
- ponding water weakening the covering over time (common on flat roofs)
“Bouncy” or soft roof deck
This usually means the timber deck underneath has started to rot. At that point, patch repairs rarely last — you’re normally looking at at least a partial re-deck and new covering.
Drips at the front edge / around the door
Often guttering/drip edge problems, or water tracking back under the covering.
Cracked or loose corrugated sheets
On older sheet roofs, cracks and broken fixings are common. If it’s asbestos cement, the key is not disturbing it and getting the right advice (more below).
3) Repair vs replace: how to decide quickly
Repair is usually worth it if:
- the leak is localised (one corner, one join, one edge)
- the roof deck feels solid
- the covering is not at end-of-life
- you’re fixing damage from a specific event (wind, impact)
Replacement is usually smarter if:
- leaks keep returning each winter
- the deck is soft/rotten
- multiple areas are failing (edges + joins + surface cracking)
- you’re upgrading the garage (insulation, conversion, new door, electrics)
A “cheap patch” on a failing deck is one of the most common false economies with garage roofs.
4) Garage roof replacement options (flat roofs)
Felt (common and cost-effective)
Felt is still widely used and can perform well when installed properly. It tends to be the most budget-friendly option for straightforward garages.
A UK cost guide (updated 2026) puts felt materials around £50–£80 per m² for flat garage roofs.
Best for: straightforward garages, tight budgets
Watch-outs: shorter lifespan than premium systems if poorly installed; seams and detailing matter
EPDM rubber (durable and low maintenance)
EPDM is popular because it’s flexible, often installed in larger single pieces, and tends to cope well with movement and standing water (when specified correctly).
That same 2026 guide suggests EPDM materials around £80–£120 per m² for flat garage roofs.
Best for: homeowners who want a longer-lasting, low-fuss upgrade
Watch-outs: quality varies by installer; edge detailing is crucial
GRP fibreglass (a hard, seamless finish)
GRP creates a tough, watertight surface and is often chosen when people want a very “finished” roof.
You’ll often see guides quoting GRP around the higher end compared to felt and EPDM.
Best for: a clean finish, longevity, and detail-heavy roofs
Watch-outs: temperature and installation conditions matter; poor workmanship can crack around details
5) Typical UK garage roof replacement costs (what affects the price)
Costs vary mostly because of:
- garage size (single vs double)
- whether the deck needs replacing
- access and waste removal
- edge trims, gutters, fascias
- whether asbestos is involved
A UK cost guide updated in 2026 provides per-m² material ranges and notes overall pricing depends on roof type and material choice.
As a homeowner, the best way to keep quotes comparable is to ask each contractor:
- Are you replacing the deck or overlaying?
- What thickness/material is the deck?
- What detailing is included (drip trims, upstands, outlets)?
- What guarantee is included?
6) What if your garage roof might be asbestos?
First: don’t disturb it
Asbestos cement is generally lower risk than insulation-type asbestos, but it becomes a problem when it’s broken, drilled, cut, sanded, or cleaned aggressively.
HSE’s “Asbestos Essentials” includes specific task guidance for asbestos cement sheets and related work, including removal and repair tasks.
Do you have to remove it?
Not always. Some council guidance states you don’t have to remove asbestos if it’s in good condition and undisturbed, and that leaking asbestos cement roofs can sometimes be repaired carefully—while warning not to scratch the surface.
Your main options
- Leave/manage (if in good condition and not being disturbed)
- Encapsulate/overclad (seal it in place or cover it, where appropriate)
- Remove and replace (common when it’s damaged, leaking, or you’re upgrading)
Home renovation guidance also commonly recommends professional testing (visual checks aren’t enough) and highlights removal vs encapsulation as the two main routes.
Important: DIY removal is risky and can be illegal depending on the material and work type. If in doubt, get professional advice and get asbestos quotes.
7) A practical “get quotes” checklist (so you get accurate prices)
When you request quotes for a garage roof repair or replacement, include:
- Single or double garage (rough dimensions if you can)
- Roof type (flat/pitched/corrugated)
- What’s happening (leaking where? soft deck? visible cracks?)
- Access (attached to house? tight access? any power lines?)
- If asbestos is suspected (older corrugated cement sheets)
The more detail you give, the fewer “surprises” you’ll get on price.
FAQs
What’s the best garage roof covering in the UK?
For many homeowners: EPDM is a strong all-round option for durability and maintenance, felt is budget-friendly, and GRP is great for a hard-wearing, seamless finish—assuming the installer is good. Prices and suitability depend on your roof structure and detailing.
Can I just patch a leaking felt garage roof?
Sometimes, yes—if the deck is solid and the leak is localised. But if the felt is brittle across the whole roof or the deck is soft, replacement is usually better. Felt failures are often linked to cracks, lifted seams, and standing water over time.
How do I know if my garage roof contains asbestos?
Older corrugated cement sheets can contain asbestos. You can’t confirm asbestos by appearance alone—testing is the reliable route.
Do I have to remove an asbestos garage roof?
Not always. If it’s in good condition and undisturbed, it may be managed in place. If it’s leaking, damaged, or you’re renovating, professional advice on repair, encapsulation or removal is sensible.
