What is EPDM roofing?
How wide is EPDM?
What are common problems with EPDM roofs?
However, many of the common problems that are encountered with EPDM roofs are due to incorrect or improper installation....Common EPDM Roofing Problemspunctures in, or damage to, the membrane.shrinkage.incorrectly installed or improper flashing.wrinkles extending into roof seams.
Is EPDM the same as a rubber roof?
EPDM, commonly known as a “rubber roof”, stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer and gets its name from the chemicals (monomers) that are mixed in various proportions to form it. It is most used on low-sloped or flat roofs, typically on commercial buildings.
Is EPDM rubber roofing any good?
Rubber roofing is extremely durable. It isn't prone to moss or algae growing on it or prone to being damaged. An EPDM roof is very easy and cost-effective to repair too. Compared to other materials, there are fewer seams, meaning it's extremely rare for a rubber roof to leak.
What does EPDM roofing look like?
0:080:46What is EPDM Membrane Roofing? Learn in Under a Minute - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipResults in a dark gray or black color for your roof the darker colour is not helpful in reflectingMoreResults in a dark gray or black color for your roof the darker colour is not helpful in reflecting UV rays it does retain heat for those in cooler weather.
How long do EPDM roofs last?
EPDM roof membranes remain stable over time and can have a life expectancy of over 50 years.
Can you walk on an EPDM roof?
An EPDM flat rubber roof is capable of withstanding light foot traffic. This is during the installation process, further maintenance and using it to access windows for cleaning.
Are EPDM roofs glued down?
EPDM roofs are fully adhered or as many call it glued down. The system is not attached mechanically. One of the biggest reasons a rubber roof can fail is from improper installation. If you are set on a rubber roof, make sure the roofing contractor is fully trained and experienced in installing a rubber roof.
What do you put under EPDM roofing?
If you're installing your EPDM over an existing roof, you should cover it with clean, sanded plywood or OSB board to provide a barrier to protect the membrane. If you're applying the EPDM directly to roof decking, you should consider adding a layer of insulation to prevent problems with water vapor.
How long will EPDM rubber last?
50 yearsAn EPDM rubber roof is incredibly long-lasting and durable. The rubber recycled and used for the synthetic rubber membrane isn't damaged under the sun's UV or ultraviolet rays. If installed correctly, you can expect a rubber roof to in excess of up to 50 years.
Is EPDM slippery when wet?
The most common complaint about EPDM rubber roofing is that it can be quite slippery when wet—but this isn't a major concern when appropriately installed on structures with little foot traffic.
How much does a EPDM roof cost?
New Roof or Replacement Cost For installation, the EPDM roofing cost per square foot will normally range between $3.25 and $14.75. The average price is about $4.50 and $5.50 per square foot. That being said, you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $18,000 for a full roof.
Can EPDM roofs be repaired?
It can be repaired, but a repair may have to be done again before the roof is worn out because of abnormal movement in the membrane. The roof has torn at the overlap at the outside edge of the seam. If it was caused by 3rd party damage, repair it with new EPDM material or EternaBond repair material.
What is another name for EPDM?
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which is a bit of a mouthful, so it's commonly shortened to EPDM or EPDM rubber. EPDM gets its name from the chemicals (monomers) that are mixed together in various proportions to form it.
What is another name for a rubber roof?
EPDM, commonly known as a 'rubber roof', stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane.
What is a rubber flat roof called?
Rubber Membrane Roof. EPDM (short for ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a true rubber. The durable single-ply membrane material resembles an inner tube, but it's engineered to resist damage from sunlight. EPDM can be mechanically anchored with fasteners, ballasted with stone, or glued.
How do you tell if my RV roof is EPDM?
1:173:56How to Determine Your RV Roof Type - presented by Dicor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf possible remove a staple. And look at both sides of the roofing material. If one side is a whiteMoreIf possible remove a staple. And look at both sides of the roofing material. If one side is a white or dove color and the other side is black it is EPDM.
How Is EPDM Roofing Installed?
There are three different installation methods for EPDM roofing systems:
Is EPDM Energy Efficient?
There is some debate regarding the energy efficiency, or lack thereof, of EPDM. Actually, the answer to this question depends primarily on location and membran e color.
What is EPDM Roofing?
Ethylene Polypropylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a resilient single ply membrane formulated primarily from propylene and ethylene.
Who installs the best EPDM roofing?
RestoreMasters installs only the best EPDM roofing systems from the nation’s top manufacturers. If you need a specific type of EPDM roofing product, just ask. Manufacturers include: Versico, Carlisle Syntec, Firestone, Mule-Hide, GenFlex, Johns Mansville & others.
What is a TPO roof?
TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin that is a combination of ethylene-propene and polypropylene. Essentially TPO roofing systems are growingly common single ply roofing membrane option to EPDM. Both are crafted of environmentally friendly rubber and synthetics that are adhered to insulation or ballasted to form a durable protective roofing ...
How long does EPDM last?
The longevity of TPO single-ply membrane roofing systems are reportedly 20+ years while EPDM can last 50 or more.
How many layers of EPDM are there?
EPDM roofing consists of four layers, making it one of the most durable and long-lasting roof membranes available.
What is used to make EPDM membranes?
To make a white EPDM membrane, titanium dioxide is generally used to reflect UV rays.
What is the color of EPDM?
EPDM membranes are available in black and white. The color is determined by compounding different ingredients used to enhance UV resistance. To make a black EPDM membrane, carbon black is added which converts UV rays into heat. To make a white EPDM membrane, titanium dioxide is generally used to reflect UV rays.
What is EPDM roofing?
EPDM, commonly known as a 'rubber roof', stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane. Although it is most commonly used on low-slope, also known as flat roof, commercial buildings, it is also used for residential purposes such as on car ports and patio roofs.
What is the white version of EPDM?
EPDM is available in either black or 'white'. The 'white' version of EPDM is actually an additional layer on top of the existing EPDM layers.
What is a ballasted roof? What does 'ballast' mean?
A ballasted roof is a roof with something, such as rocks or concrete pavers, to hold the roofing membrane, such as EPDM, down. The ballast also helps protect the roofing membrane from damage, such as from hail, tree branches and ultraviolet light.
What is the least expensive roofing system?
Least expensive to install. By comparison to TPO and PVC, EPDM is the least expensive commercial roofing system to install. For example, a 2500sf EPDM roof would cost around $5.5/sf to install. That same roof with a TPO roofing system will cost you roughly $7/sf. PVC, $8.5/sf. (figures do not include material)
Why are EPDM rolls so wide?
Because EPDM rolls are wide and long, there are fewer seems to fail, compared to asphalt shingles or metal sheets. As a result, the potential leaks that might occur are rare, especially with a thicker membrane, such as 75 or 90 mil, or if the roof is ballasted.
What is the longest lasting roofing system?
EPDM is the longest lasting of the 3 commercial roofing systems we offer. Most owners enjoy 30 years or more out of their so-called rubber roof. A properly, professional installed, well-designed and constructed EPDM roof will outperform almost any other roofing system.
How big is an EPDM roll?
A common EPDM roll size is 10' wide and 100' long. Compared to asphalt shingles, which are roughly 3' wide x 1' tall. Instead of placing each asphalt shingle one at a time, you simply roll-out EPDM - you can cover more area faster.
Cons Of Epdm Roofing
Absorbs heat. EPDM is naturally black, so it offers less heat protection than rubber roof materials that are lighter in color. EPDM can be ordered in grey or white for an additional cost.
Detailed Information On Epdm Rubber
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, and that is the chemical name of the synthetic rubber useful in a wide range of applications, including flat roofs, but also for door and window seals in vehicles, non-slip coatings for playgrounds and decks, and much more.
Advantages To Using Epdm Roofing
The biggest advantage that EPDM roofing has over other types of flat roofing materials is its cost. At .80 a square foot, this is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials around. Its also extremely easy to install, so whether you do it yourself or you hire a professional, the costs are low in that area as well.
Useful Links For Epdm Roofing Information
1. General: See this in-depth general article about various roof systems on the Whole Building Design Guide site, which is maintained by the National Institute of Building Sciences.
How Much Does Epdm Rubber Roofing Cost
The most up to date pricing for our products is available by following the links in the section below.
Pro: A Longlasting Low Maintenance Solution That Looks Good
EPDM roofing is leagues ahead of some older traditional flat roof material, such as felt for example. Rubber roofing is suitable for extreme conditions, giving you one of the most durable and reliable roofs available that typically lasts between 30-50 years.
How Long Do Rubber Membrane Roofs Last
You can expect your EPDM rubber roof to last for 50 years or more. This is thanks to continuing innovation in the manufacturing of EPDM membranes. The material is not susceptible to damage from exposure to UV light such as shrinkage, nor will it rot or be damaged by precipitation.
What causes EPDM roof leaks?
Dropped tools, nails or screws which are spilled on the roof and then stepped on, and even sharp stones caught in the tread of a boot have all been known to make holes. This is a common source of EPDM roof leaks.
What is reinforced EPDM?
The reinforced EPDM normally used in mechanically-attached systems is constrained by the reinforcing polyester scrim, which reduces the elasticity of the roof membrane as a whole, and can only stretch about 35% before breaking.
What is EPDM used for?
Currently, EPDM is used in about 20% of all low-slope (“flat”) roof installations in North America each year, including both new construction and roof replacements.
Where to use EPDM flashing?
Smaller pieces of fully-cured or semi-cured EPDM are used to form the flashings at the perimeter of the roof and at HVAC curbs and other penetrations through the roof . Uncured EPDM is sometimes used on the corners of curbs or other locations with sharp angles.
When was EPDM first used?
EPDM was developed in the 1950’s and first used as a roofing membrane in the early 1960’s . By the 1980’s, it dominated the single-ply roofing market. It’s very common to find an older EPDM roof still in place on a building today; when properly installed and well-maintained, these roofs have been known to last for over 40 years.
How big is a field membrane?
The field membrane (the vast majority of the surface of the roof) is formed from large sheets (typically 10 feet by 100 feet) of fully-cured EPDM rubber, seamed together with adhesives or adhesive tape during the roof installation.
How big is EPDM?
Individual sheets of EPDM come in a variety of widths and lengths, with 10 ft. x 100 ft. being a typical size for large roof installations.
What is EPDM rubber?
Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) is a petrochemical-based rubber used in the manufacture of roof coverings. It has been in use for about 20 years and has proven to be highly weather-resistant. Rubber membrane, as with TPO membrane, is popular for low-slope and flat roofs where thin coverings are preferred. This polymer has low-temperature flexibility as well as ozone, ultraviolet, weather, and abrasion resistance.
What is EPDM membrane?
EPDM membranes are available with or without a reinforced center layer of polyester scrim fabric. It may be installed using ballast (usually small stones), mechanical fasteners or adhesive systems. Some rubber membranes are manufactured with an adhesive tape already applied to one edge making installation easier.
How Is EPDM Made?
EPDM is a single-ply sheet made of a synthetic rubber composed of polymers, carbon black, process oil, zinc oxide, and curing agents. The resin is used to produce sheets of the membrane in widths as large as 50 feet with lengths from 50 to 200 feet. It comes in black or white-on-black with the dark color being more light- and heat-absorbent - much preferred in colder climates. The white-on-black EPDM membrane reflects light and heat and so is more popular in warmer climates where keeping residences cool is a priority.
What is the solar reflectance index for rubber roofing?
Rubber roofing membrane is rated on its ability to reflect light and heat using the Solar Reflectance Index. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): "Solar reflectance is a measure of the ability of a surface material to reflect sunlight - including the visible, infrared, and ultraviolet wavelengths - on a scale of 0 to 1."
Why is EPDM so shrinky?
Early EPDM membranes used overly volatile oils which caused excessive shrinkage in the product after being heated by the sun. Less volatile oil is now used to avoid this problem. Other issues include seams becoming unsealed and allowing water in, and moisture forming under the membrane on roofs with air-conditioned spaces beneath.
How much does EPDM cost?
Costs for EPDM membrane run from 50 cents to $1.50 a square foot while the white-on-black material is more expensive. Membranes with pre-applied adhesive and/or tape cost more. Do-it-yourself kits are sold for handy homeowners but securing appropriate tools can add to the cost of the material.
Why are black and white on black roofing?
Black and white-on-black membranes have proven to contribute to efforts to reduce energy use as they reflect light and heat from the sun. In both cases, rubber membranes reduce furnace and/or air conditioner use making homes with that type of roofing more energy efficient.
How much does EPDM roofing cost?
You can never go wrong with roofing that only costs 80 cents per square foot. Even if you have a huge camper van or a motor home, you can afford to replace your entire roof with brand new EPDM sheets.
How long does an EPDM roof last?
Also, if you get your EPDM roofing from a trusted source, it is possible that your new roof can last up to twenty years. EPDM also does not scratch or scuff easily and if leaks do occur, you can easily patch them up in a few minutes by using RV roof sealants or coatings. Also, unlike TPO, EPDM can withstand high heat loads.
What is RV roofing made of?
Commonly called rubber roofing, rolled rubber roofing, or rubber membrane roofing, EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, is one of the most popular RV roofing choices currently available. Most EPDM roofing options are made from a combination of recycled automotive tires, slate dust, and sawdust. It is cheap because it is made of recycled materials.
Why is TPO roofing so popular?
It instantly became very popular as it was economical and cost-efficient. TPO is the most popular RV roofing material today because of two reasons – it is cheap and it is already colored white. This type of roofing material comes in the form of a rubber membrane.
What are the disadvantages of using EPDM?
Disadvantages of Using EPDM. It does not have curb appeal – The biggest drawback to using EPDM is that it is just plain unflattering to look at. The black EPDM has the same look and appeal as a rubber tire inner tube stretched out over your RV.
Is TPO a good material for RV?
Durable – Compared with other thermoplastic membranes, TPO is resistant to mold, does not accumulate dirt, and is highly resistant to impact and puncture. TPO is flexible, so it can adjust with every move of the RV. Furthermore, reinforced TPO can easily handle thermal expansion and contraction, so you can take your RV anywhere in the country.
Is TPO the same as EPDM?
TPO and EPDM might look the same when they are installed but they are vastly different in terms of construction and features. TPO is much lighter and easier to install, but EPDM is a whole lot cheaper and lasts longer. If you are thinking of getting a new roof for your RV, these two options are your best bet.
What is EPDM roofing?
What is EPDM? EPDM is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) widely used in low-slope buildings in the United States and worldwide. Its two primary ingredients, ethylene and propylene, are derived from oil and natural gas. EPDM is available in both black and white, ...
How wide is EPDM?
EPDM is available in both black and white, and is sold a broad variety of widths, ranging from 7.5 feet to fifty feet, and in two thicknesses, 45 and 60 mils.
