EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a rubber membrane roofing system that is commonly used in commercial roofing for low-slope buildings. EPDM roofs are single-ply membranes. EPDM is classified as a thermoset material. This means your EPDM roofing is either fully-cured prior to being installed or will cure during natural weathering after installation.
EPDM has been in use on roofs in the US since the 1960’s and is one of the most common types of low-slope roofing materials. It is relatively inexpensive, simple to install, and fairly clean to work with when compared to conventional built-up roofs. Our commercial roofing experts at Decor Construction are well versed in the process of installation, repair and maintenance of EPDM roofing systems.
EPDM is a rubber material which principal components consist of the compounds ethylene and propylene. A flexible rubber matrix forms when a small amount of diene is added to the mix. EPDM is available reinforced or unreinforced. It is also available in either a cured (vulcanized) or uncured (non-vulcanized) state. Vulcanized EPDM is the most common, while non-vulcanized is often used for flashing purposes.
EPDM Roofing Installation
EPDM membrane thickness ranges from thirty mils (0.030″) to one-hundred mils (0.100″). There are three standard application procedures as follows:
Fully-adhered: This EPDM system uses water-based or solvent-based adhesives to adhere the rubber to the substrate.
Mechanically-fastened: This EPDM system is attached by manufacturer-approved mechanical means to the substrate.
Loose-laid: These membranes are secured only at the perimeters and any penetrations, then a ballast of round river rock or concrete pavers is used to hold the materials in place. River rock is usually installed at a rate of 1000 – 1200 pounds per roof square (100 square feet) and the pavers generally weigh approximately 20 pounds per square foot. Structural integrity is important with loose-laid ballasted roof systems.
The seams of all systems are sealed using either an adhesive or a splice tape. Splice tapes have tested with a higher tear-strength.
As with most roofs, EPDM rubber roofs have varying lifespans that depend on numerous criteria. These include environmental conditions such as building use, how much foot traffic the roof gets, how much water remains on the roof after a rain, and how long it takes that water to drain or evaporate.
Geographical location also plays a factor in the longevity of your EPDM roofing system. Roofs in mild climates will outlast roofs in harsher climates. Hands down though the most important factor in a roof’s life expectancy is the quality of workmanship. If the roof is not properly installed, then its lifespan will be shortened. That is why you should only trust Decor with your EPDM roofing needs. Properly installed EPDM rubber roofs should last between 12 and 25 years.
EPDM Roof Repairs
When repairs become necessary, they must be handled with caution. Using the wrong materials can cause further damage to a rubber roof. We perform complete installation of a new EPDM roofing system, as well as offer routine maintenance or repair needs on an existing EPDM roofing system. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free assessment of your EPDM roofing installation and repair needs.
Best EPDM Roofing Installation & Repair
Decor Construction is here to help when you are exploring EPDM roofing installation as an option for your commercial roofing needs. As the number one commercial roofing company, Decor Construction offers the highest quality services in EPDM roofing. Our expert roofers are fully licensed and insured. We are capable of handling commercial roofing projects of any size and our services cover Oklahoma City, Fayetteville, Ft. Smith and more.
