10 facts about EPDM rubber roofing for your next installation
Oct
2
Written by:
Monday, October 02, 2017
There is a variety of roofing options available for flat or low sloping roofs to commercial or residential properties. These include TPO single-ply membrane (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), EPDM, PVC single-ply, mastic asphalt and felt. Deciding which is most appropriate for the project can be based on a number of criteria such as price, appearance, durability, flexibility, longevity and suitability for roof style.
EPDM (Ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a type of synthetic rubber roofing membrane which lends itself well to low-slope and flat roofs. EPDM is an elastomeric compound that is manufactured from ethylene, propylene, and a small amount of diene monomer. These ingredients are synthesised to produce a product that presents a high degree of resistance to the ozone, ultraviolet rays, weathering and abrasion. It also offers flexibility at low temperatures. The ingredients that go in to make EPDM rubber roofing membrane also contribute to it's resistance to acids, alkalis, and oxygenated solvents.
EPDM is one of the most sustainable materials used in the construction industry. It offers excellent performance and has less impact on the environment.
The first
EPDM rubber membrane roofs were laid on commercial buildings in the late 1960's. This type of roofing material has been successfully used with outstanding results to the flat roofing industry. EPDM's resistance to UV rays and adverse weather conditions as well as it's low temperature flexibility has led to the increasing popularity in the flat roof industry - and now also being used to weatherproof roofs to residential properties. The cost is also favourable compared to many other roofing types.
EPDM roofing membrane has been installed to roofs worldwide from those which experience freezing winter temperatures to those in extreme heat. This track record demonstrates this material’s capabilities and its rightful place as a successful solution within the roofing industry.
Features and benefits of EPDM rubber roofing 
- Can be fixed to the roof mechanically with fixed edge fixings. This method means it can be reused or refitted without compromising the effectiveness of the membrane
- Non-toxic therefore it won't pollute rainwater run-off - EPDM is fully cured in the manufacturing process and with ageing it won't leech out toxic chemicals.
- Its physical properties remain stable in comparison to other single-ply membranes - which makes repairs much easier in the unlikely event of punctures or tears.
- Long track record of usage with over 40 years experience of use in the water containment and roofing industry
- Hard wearing, highly durable and resistant to UV radiation and adverse weather conditions - won't become brittle due to low temperature flexibility. Due to its flexibility and elongation, it will accommodate stresses caused by temperature extremes and structural movement
- Superior resistance to hail damage
- Lightweight, highly elastic and flexible making EPDM rubber roofing membrane easy to install to many roofing designs
- Bonded together at the seams to form one continuous sheet. Fewer joins for greater durability and waterproof finish
- Aesthetically pleasing finish if fitted by a trained roofer and finished off with EPDM roof trims
- Has no shelf-life and is very effective at keeping a flat or low sloping roof watertight.
Professional roofers such as Fix My Roof shares videos and articles on the merits of EPDM rubber roofing -
Installing an EPDM rubber roofing membrane
For further details and to order EPDM on the role or pre-cut to required dimensions, contact Russetts Development Ltd who have over thirty years of experience in providing solutions for most forms of water containment.