EPDM Roofing

EPDM or commonly referred to as a “Rubber roof” is a very popular roofing system throughout the country. They may installed by one of three methods: fully adhered with an adhesive, ballasted or held down by rock, or by being mechanically attached with screws and plates.

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is an elastomeric compound with ethylene and propylene are the two main ingredients which are derived from oil and natural gas. There are only small amounts of diene monomer. These ingredients are synthesized to produce a product that exhibits a high degree of ozone, ultraviolet, weathering and abrasion resistance, and provides outstanding low-temperature flexibility.

Sheet widths range from 7.5 feet to 50 feet wide and are typically 45 mils and 60 mils thick. Mechanically fastened assemblies rely on rows of screws or nails to secure the membrane to the roof deck. Fully Adhered assemblies use special glues to ensure the membrane stays stuck tight to the insulation. Loose laid assemblies are not fastened to the roof deck but rather are covered in smooth river rock whose weight ensures the membrane does not blow away. EPDM seams are typically sealed with a roof cement compound. However, some manufacturers market self-sticking sheets with the adhesive pre-applied to the membrane.

EPDM Weaknesses:

• Seam failure
• Curbs and Penetrations
• Membrane shrinking and pulling away from edges and penetrations