General 
No Comments Replacing a Flat Roof with an EPDM Membrane
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, or EPDM, is a synthetic rubber membrane offering an easy to install and maintenance-free flat (or gently sloping) roof solution.
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Developed in the USA over thirty years ago, EPDM possesses remarkable durability and extreme temperature resistance ranging from the cold of Alaska to the high temperatures of the Arabian Gulf. It found favour initially in commercial applications, and there are currently over one billion square metres in roof installations worldwide. An estimated one hundred million-plus square metres will be installed this year as it is becoming more popular as a flat roofing option for residential installations.
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EPDM can be used in many flat roof applications including garages, extensions, balconies, carports, house roofs and more. It offers a long life-span for a flat roof material – some roofing companies installing it offer a twenty year warranty although its expected life-span is more like fifty years and rising as manufacturing techniques improve.
The Benefits of an EPDM Roof
Easy to Install
EPDM comes on a large roll of varying sizes, and is usually cut to fit the customer’s roof prior to installation. With no seams, it is akin to shrink wrapping your whole roof.
Durability
It offers excellent resistance to UV rays, ozone and severe temperature fluctuations whether extreme cold or heat. It can elongate over 300% to accommodate building movements and temperature changes.
Low Maintenance
Apart from an advised yearly inspection, EPDM requires no specific maintenance. This helps give a low ‘life cycle’ cost.
Economics and Comfort
EPDM reflects heat from the sun yet insulates in the winter thus reducing heat loss.
Environmentally Friendly
EPDM is made out of recycled materials. It lasts at least fifty years and will not require frequent disposal/recycling.
Straightforward Repairs
Easy to carry out by using simple ‘flashing’ strips. No need to remove/re-lay whole areas of the roof. Roofing companies do need training on how to repair EPDM roofing material though.
Suitable for Most Roofs
Its flexibility and ease of installation make it suitable for just about any flat roof situation.
Footfall
It is possible to walk on an EPDM surface, although sharp footwear (such as stiletto heels) should be avoided if possible. For heavy usage, such as roof patios or balconies, it can be overlaid with a choice of finishes such as decking, paving slabs and so forth.
Any Disadvantages?
Protrusions
Chimneys, vents etc pose a threat to to the integrity of a rubber roof. Leaks are possible later on and resealing may be required.
Debris
Rubber can be damaged by falling debris, footfall or similar.
Installation
Professional installation by roofing contractors fully trained in the required manufacturer’s techniques is essential.
Fleeceback – The latest generation of EPDM
‘Fleeceback’ is a patented technology improving EPDM further. A layer of non-woven polyester is laminated to the back of the sheet of EPDM giving the product twice the thickness of standard, 180% greater tear resistance and over 60% greater impact resistance. Possibly the greatest benefit is the virtual elimination of shrinkage thus enhancing its durability.