Ethyleen Propylene Diene Monomer Roofs (EDPM)
EPDM, or rubber roofing systems, consist of three
types of installations. Totally adhered membranes are glued to a mechanically
attached insulation board. Mechanically attached membranes are screwed to
the substrate insulation directly, while a ballasted system is loose laid
and covered with rock.
Rubber roofing continues to evolve with faster, better and more user-friendly
components. The single biggest drawback for rubber roofs is the extremely
low puncture resistance. Since warranties do not cover holes, extreme
care must be taken so as to not damage the roof surface. Some buildings
are simply not good candidates for rubber, requiring either a PVC membrane
or a built-up membrane for high traffic areas.
EPDM Benefits
- flexibility in design and installation
- lightweight in some cases
- ease of installation
- easy to locate punctures (adhered and mechanically attached)
EPDM Drawbacks
- low puncture resistance
- inherent shrinking of membrane
- black membrane heats up considerably
- many inexperienced contractors install it, as no
equipment is required
- odor associated with solvent-based glues and primers
- extreme difficulty locating punctures in ballast or re-roof
