The UK commercial roofing sector is set for significant developments in 2025, promising even greater emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency and introducing more innovative materials to meet this need.

With the country’s net-zero carbon goals on the line, sustainability remains a top priority for roofing and across the wider construction industry. As commercial roofing specialists, we’re seeing a growing number of businesses adopting sustainable strategies and embracing the capabilities of some of the latest materials.

While challenges are still expected, advancements in materials technology brings a raft of opportunities for contractors and commercial property owners. We’re here with an overview of some of the key trends that you should be thinking about for 2025.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Sustainable, energy efficient commercial roofing is set to be a driving trend and the way forward for the UK, facing strong environmental goals. Compliance and regulation are expected to dictate the construction of both new builds and roof renovation projects and set high performance targets in terms of efficiency.

Because of this, the sector is likely to see an increase in the adoption of sustainable systems, such as, but not limited to:

• Cool roofing systems: reflective materials reduce heat absorption, which is especially beneficial for urban areas experiencing the heat island effect.
• Green roofs: popular in UK cities, green roofs help manage rainwater runoff and wider surface water management, improve air quality and provide insulation.
• Solar integration: rooftops are increasingly being used for solar PV systems, with government incentives and energy cost savings driving uptake.

Innovations in Materials

It is an exciting time in the commercial roofing sector as innovation in materials continues to soar. As a result, a growing number of UK contractors are embracing advanced systems to address durability and environmental concerns, so training is also expected to increase.

Across the sector is the promise of even more to come in 2025, and further adoption of systems that can perform in conjunction with advanced insulation and the installation of skylights or solar, for instance:

High-performance EPDM membranes

Offering excellent weather resistance, EPDM is ideal for the UK’s variable climate. Some EPDM systems, such as RubberGard from Elevate, have a typical service life expectancy of more than 50 years and work well with advanced insulation, skylights and other sustainable materials.

Recycled materials

The use of recycled components in flat roofs is growing, particularly for eco-conscious businesses. With an increasing range, including plastics, rubber polymers and other innovations, this sector is full of opportunity.

Roof coatings

Liquid-applied systems are increasingly used in the UK to extend the lifespan of existing roofs and improve waterproofing. Popular in complex roof designs, those with multiple extrusions or eco-systems installed, liquid roofing creates a seamless coating. PermaRoof’s own liquid PU coating, is straightforward to apply and is minimally disruptive, making it a good choice for medical facilities, schools, car parks and protected buildings.

Technology in Roofing

Technology adoption is transforming the roofing industry in the UK in many ways, some of which include:

• The use of drones: used for safer, quicker inspections, drones are ideal for large commercial and industrial buildings.
• Smart roofing systems: sensors embedded in roofing layers can track weather impact and detect leaks, ensuring proactive maintenance in large commercial roofs.
• Digital planning tools: tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM) are helping UK architects and contractors improve design accuracy and efficiency.

Climate Resilience and Regulation

The UK’s commercial business owners are no strangers to unpredictable weather, but today’s climate awareness is driving them to invest in the future. In addition, stricter energy efficiency standards have an ever-increasing influence.

Protecting commercial roofs for the long-term and increasing resilience to weather, meeting insulation and energy efficiency standards are all factors that will be on the table at many project meetings next year.

How PermaRoof Commercial can help

Adapting to and embracing these trends requires expert support, whether you’re renovating a commercial roof or starting on a new construction. PermaRoof UK Commercial is here to provide as much support as you need. From initial survey to system selection, logistics, planning and overseeing your installation to completion, our team is here for you. We offer compliance advice, and work with some of the most trusted brands in the industry to bring your project to a successful conclusion – on time and on budget.

As a trusted commercial roofing partner, we will ensure your projects stay ahead of the curve while meeting UK-specific demands and offering some of the latest technology and innovative products. Stay prepared for 2025 with solutions that offer long-term value, sustainability, and resilience and talk to PermaRoof UK Commercial today.