EPDM Roof Systems
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane 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, and is sold a broad variety of widths, and in varying thicknesses, 45, 60, & 90 mils. EPDM roof systems can be fully adhered, mechanically attached or ballasted, with the seams of the roofing system sealed with liquid adhesives or specially formulated tape. EPDM roof systems have been an appealing choice in the commercial & industrial roofing industry for over 40 years.
Introduced in the 1970's, EPDM is a single-ply roof membrane which has a life expectancy that can range from 10 to 30 years. EPDM has three methods of attachment: Ballasted, Mechanically Attached, & Fully Adhered. It offers outstanding elasticity which combats expansion and contraction, has a lightweight, versitile design, is easy to repair and environmentally friendly.
Before
After
Ballasted EPDM
- Cost-effective.
- Quick installation.
- No fasteners and/or bonding adhesives.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Difficult to find and repair roof leaks.
- Not ideal for high foot-traffic applications.
Mechanically Attached EPDM
- Typically more expensive than a ballasted system but cheaper than a fully adhered application.
- Must use a reinforced membrane.
- Uses very little adhesives.
- Can be installed in colder applications.
- Typically the same warranty length compared to fully adhered applications.
Fully Adhered EPDM
- Typically the most expensive application.
- Must use a non-reinforced membrane.
- Slightly longer life-cycle than mechanically attached systems.
- High wind uplift ratings.
- Adhered membrane keeps roof leaks confined.
- Time tested.