What You Need to Know About EPDM Roofing

Posted on April 24, 2019 by Brian McCallister

EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is very popular today when it comes to roofing, and it could be a good solution for your needs. It can work well with many different types of roofs, and you will find several EPDM options available to provide your roof with the added protection it needs. The material has been around since the 1960s, and it has proven to be very effective in a variety of capacities, not just for roofing.

Options With EPDM

The rubber is available in sheets in a range of thicknesses, vulcanized and nonvulcanized membranes, and as a liquid coating that can be applied similar to paint. The roofing material has become very popular with commercial roofs, as many businesses tend to have flat or low-sloped roofs. With so many options available, different types of buildings and buildings of different sizes can make use of the material.

It’s Environmentally Friendly

You will also find that EPDM roofing tends to be environmentally friendly. The material is very durable, and even a single coating or membrane can last for decades without the need for replacement. In addition, it can help with heating and cooling bills. The product comes in white and black.

Those who live in environments where it gets cold in the winter months and who have relatively short or mild summers may want to choose the black coating. This can help to absorb sunlight and will keep the heating bills down in the winter. In addition, those who live in hot environments, such as the southern part of the United States, will find that the white coatings can help to reflect the heat. This keeps the cooling bills down.

Other Benefits of Choosing EPDM

As you start to learn more about EPDM, you will find there are quite a few other benefits it offers. The material has the capacity to resist massive temperature fluctuations. It can expand and contract with the changing temperatures without any breaks or cracks in the material. It can last for up to 50 years when it is installed properly, and it is fire resistant. It is recyclable, and as you will see below, it tends to be easy to install.

One of the other benefits of the material is the fact that it is inexpensive. When you consider some of the other roofing systems out there that do not boast all of the benefits that EPDM offers, it’s amazing to see just how affordable the product can be. Even those who have large roofs can save a substantial amount of money when they choose the material.

Self-Installation or Professional Installation?

When you decide to go forward and get an EPDM roof, you will want to consider whether you will take care of the application on your own or hire a professional. For those who are choosing the large EPDM sheets that need to be applied, it tends to be much easier to have the professionals take care of the entire process. For those who are using a liquid EPDM instead, it might be possible to take care of the application on your own. This will depend on the size of the roof, along with your comfort in a DIY project like this.

Regardless of who installs the roofing system, you will find that it tends to be a relatively fast process. In very little time, you can have the peace of mind you need for your roof, and you will know that it can last for decades to come.

A Basic EPDM Roofing Guide

Posted on March 25, 2019 by Brian McCallister

If you are considering a new or replacement roof for a low-slope or flat rooftop, you already know that EPDM is the most commonly used material. Affordable, long-lasting and amazingly easy to install, it can be a DIY project or something done by those without any prior roofing experience. In this EPDM roofing guide, however, we are going to look at the different steps required and any “must know” information that can help make your EPDM installation a success.

The Steps to Installation

The first thing we must address in this EPDM roofing guide is the simple fact that any EPDM installation has to start with prep work. Without adequate preparations, your end result may be unsuccessful or less efficient – i.e. your rooftop might eventually leak or it is covered with ripples and bulges, etc.

EPDM Roofing

So, step one in any EPDM roofing guide is to do proper roof deck preparation. That begins with cleaning the roof surface and making sure it is totally free of debris, dirt and dust, and oil or grease. You also must inspect it for any loose materials or spots where moisture lingers. Trapped moisture will ruin the installation, so be sure everything is clean and dry. Also be sure it is a material appropriate for the use of EPDM.

In fact, it is common for a EPDM roofing guide to skip a discussion of this key point. However, you must know what the materials can and cannot bond with effectively, and the most commonly suggested material is a timber deck that is OSB3 or exterior grade plywood.

Structural Issues to Know About

Though any EPDM roofing guide will tell you that installation of EPDM is easy, you still need to be aware of a few terms that might be unfamiliar to a novice. These include:

Drip batten – At the edge of a flat roof, and overhanging the gutter slightly, this is a durable board that you may have to install if not already present. It ensures that any water runoff reaches the gutters and does not drip behind the gutter
Back drip trim – This is a piece of molding that goes over the drip batten and is impervious to water and weather. It makes proper drainage a certainty
Chasing out – If you have an area of rooftop in which the roof adjoins to another material, such as brick and mortar, you need to use a chisel or grinder to “chase out” the joint and ensure that the flashing can adhere fully and properly
Mastic – This is the material applied to any wall trim areas like those discussed in “chasing out”. You will use this to bond and seal the edges and then also use simple tools to chase out the mastic or binding agent into the groove
Pig’s ear – This is a way of forming and folding the area of overhang at the edge of the roof. You will definitely want to practice this in advance of your first installation as it ensures that the membrane (EPDM material) makes an impervious and long lasting cover for the edges of the roof
Sweeping – When you have placed the adhesive and the EPDM rolls, you must then sweep the membrane and ensure any and all trapped air is swept out and from beneath as this insures bonding and prevents damage

This is just the basics and if you opt for EPDM roofing, you’ll want to invest in an actual step-by-step EPDM roofing guide that walks you through all of the preparatory steps, the different processes needed for installation, and all of the unique methods you will have to know to finish the roof and get a good seal for years to come.

EPDM Roofing Guide What You Need to Know

Posted on February 22, 2019 by Brian McCallister

If you have been looking for a new roofing system for your building, and you have come across EPDM systems, you might be wondering whether this is the right solution for you. This basic guide will look at what this type of system is and some of the benefits that it can offer, along with tips for installation.

What Is EPDM?

EPDM is a popular type of roofing material that has been around for nearly 60 years. Those who have flat and low-sloped roofs, whether commercial or residential, have found that it is a good roofing application that offers some excellent benefits. EPDM is available in different thicknesses (45mm, 60mm, and 90mm) and styles, and it is even available in two different colors – black and white. These colors can help to confer energy savings. Those who live in warm climates might want the white for their roof, as it will reflect the rays of the sun and keep the building cooler, for example.

EPDM Roof

Main EPDM Roof Advantages

This type of roofing system has gained popularity because of the many benefits that it can offer. It has the ability to resist extreme temperatures and it holds up well if there is standing water on the roof. It is durable and can last for decades. It tends to be lightweight and has Class A fire resistance. Repairs are simple, and this is an inexpensive option for those who are looking for a quality roofing system.

Types of EPDM Roofing

Many companies today offer EPDM, but there are two main choices when you are choosing this product. You can choose the roofing membranes, which are a popular option for many businesses. There is also a liquid EPDM that could be used. This version tends to be easy to apply, and it has gained in popularity.

Installing the Roofing Membranes

The installation of the membranes is simple, but it will require preparation of the roof before beginning. The roof needs to be extremely clean and free of all dirt and debris. It also needs to be completely dry before beginning. The membranes are then laid out on the roof for about half an hour so wrinkles can be removed. When doing this, they are laid so that 3” of material hangs over the edge of the roof. The membranes are then folded back over themselves.

At this time, the contractors will get the EPDM adhesive ready, and will then apply the adhesive to the roof. The membranes are then folded back into place when the adhesive is tacky but not wet. A push broom can be used to ensure adhesion and to help remove any wrinkles. It is a slow but simple process, and many business owners find that it tends to be best to hire a professional to take care of the installation to make sure it is done correctly.

When it comes to the liquid EPDM, the installation process does tend to be easier, and you may want to do it on your own. You still need to clean the roof thoroughly, and you need to be sure that you have a dry roof before you start. You would then mix up the liquid EPDM with the catalyst to activate it. Then, it can be applied to the roof with a paint roller and a paintbrush, which can help to get into some areas that the roller can’t.

Now that you have a better understanding of what EPDM is and how it is applied, you can make a decision on whether it might be right for your business.

Need to Now Information Regarding Installation of EPDM Roofs

Posted on January 21, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Many business owners who have flat roofs on their buildings have decided that getting an EPDM roof is the best option given the number of benefits it offers. This is a lightweight material that tends to be easy to install yet remains highly durable. In fact, the EPDM roof life tends to be several decades. You can choose between white and black EPDM, which can help with energy efficiency in the building, as well.

Although the installation is easy, and it could be done on your own, those having the membranes installed may want to work with a professional crew. This can make the installation go faster and easier, with no need to worry about whether it is done correctly.

EPDM Roof

How Are the Membranes Installed?

First, there are a number of materials required to install this type of roof. In addition to the EPDM membrane, the roofers will also use EPDM adhesive, a utility knife, broom, paint roller, and protection for their hands and eyes. The first step is to make sure that the surface of the roof is entirely clean and dry. They remove debris and any sharp edges that might be on the roof that could puncture the membrane.

The membranes are then laid in position on the clean roof and allowed time to “relax”, so the wrinkles can be easily removed. It is important to make sure that any wrinkles in the membrane are removed before using the adhesive. The EPDM adhesive is then applied to the roof. The adhesive should be put on smoothly, and there should not be any areas that are too thick. Wait until the EPDM adhesive is tacky – not wet – and the membranes are added. The push broom can be used on the membrane to help remove any wrinkles that may be present after laying it on the adhesive. The broom will also help to ensure that there is proper adhesion.

Keep in mind that it is very important to make sure the roof deck is completely clean before applying the adhesive and membranes. If there is grit, dirt, or small particles, it could get between the roof and the membrane, which will not allow for proper adhesion.

While it might be possible for you to apply the membranes on your own, it is tricky work that is best left to the professionals. They have experience to ensure it is done right the first time, and they will have the job done faster than you would be able to do on your own.

How Different is Installation for the Liquid EPDM?

The liquid is just as easy to install as the membranes. In fact, it tends to be even easier, and many choose to install this on their own. After cleaning the roof thoroughly and making any necessary repairs, the Liquid EPDM mixture will go on very smoothly, just like paint. You can apply it with rollers and a brush, and it does not take long to cover even large roofs with this product. You will not need a primer, and although you could only use a single coat, many people choose to add two coats, as this is a lightweight material. The second coat should not add too much weight.

Whether you choose to hire a professional or complete the installation on your own, you will be happy with the results that the roof can provide. You will have the peace of mind you need for your business, knowing that the roof is protected.

Top EPDM Roof Advantages

Posted on December 3, 2018 by Brian McCallister

EPDM is one of the most popular types of roofing systems in use today. It can work well for businesses that have flat or low-sloped roofs, but it can also work for residences and outbuildings with these types of roofs. What is it about this type of system that makes it so popular? You will find that there are many EPDM roof advantages that can provide your roof with the protection it needs.

Fewer Seams Provide Better Coverage

The membrane sheets tend to come in large, wide rolls. This means that they will have fewer seams than other types of roofing materials. Fewer seams mean there will be less risk of an issue with those seams, such as leaks.

EPDM Roof

Quick to Install

While you will likely want to have a professional take care of the installation, one of the other EPDM roof advantages is the ease of installation. The contractors should be able to get your roof completed in far less time than it would take to install other types of roofing systems. This means less hassle for you.

Lightweight

The membranes are also lightweight compared with other roofing options, such as asphalt. This means there will be less weight on the roof, and it means that getting the materials up onto the roof for installation will be easier. It will also mean that your roof is under less stress than it would be with other types of roofing materials.

Potential Energy Savings

One of the EPDM roof advantages that many people never consider is the energy savings that can be had. This type of material comes in black or white. Since the roof is exposed to the sunlight throughout the day, this can affect how warm the building below gets.

Those who live in environments where it is often hot will want to use white EPDM, as this can reflect some of the light, keeping it cooler. It could mean that you use your AC less. If you are in an environment where you have cold winters, having black EPDM roofing can help to absorb the light from the sun and keep the building warmer, potentially reducing heating costs.

Highly Durable and Long Lasting

Of course, another one of the main reasons to consider using EPDM roofing is because of the durability. It can stand up to the weather and changes in the temperature very well. It won’t start to melt in high temperatures, as you might find with asphalt. It also has the potential to last for decades without needing replacement. If there are any minor issues that occur with the roofing, it tends to be very easy to repair without needing to replace the entire roof.

The Cost

One of the biggest advantages to this type of roofing is the cost. It happens to be the least expensive roofing system that you can install per square foot. The national average for the square foot price, before labor is added, is between $0.80 and $1.60. When compared with other options, you will save more when you use EPDM.

It Has Maintained a Good Reputation for Decades

This type of material has been on the market for a long time, and it has been able to retain its good reputation. It is a time-tested material that you can rely on to help keep your roof as safe as possible.

Of course, these are just some of the biggest EPDM roof advantages. If you would like to have this type of roofing installed, you can see why it can be a great option.

What You Need to Know About EPDM Roofing

Posted on October 23, 2018 by Brian McCallister

Options With EPDM

It’s Environmentally Friendly

Other Benefits of Choosing EPDM

As you start to learn more about EPDM roofing, you will find there are quite a few other benefits it offers. The material has the capacity to resist massive temperature fluctuations. It can expand and contract with the changing temperatures without any breaks or cracks in the material. It can last for up to 50 years when it is installed properly, and it is fire resistant. It is recyclable, and as you will see below, it tends to be easy to install.

EPDM Rubber

Self-Installation or Professional Installation?

Elastomeric Roof Coatings: What You Should Know about This Roofing Solution

Posted on September 20, 2018 by Brian McCallister

The roof of a building is as crucial as the foundation. In addition, it must be robust enough to withstand years of exposure to UV rays, extreme temperature fluctuations, harsh elements and weather conditions, and more, and it must do so with minimal maintenance. Given this, it only makes sense that roofs degrade over time, and will eventually need repairs. When that happens, elastomeric roof coatings can be used to repair the damage done. What are these coatings, and what should you know about them?

What Are Elastomeric Roof Coatings?

These types of coatings are made from materials with elastic properties – thus, the name. They are flexible and stretchy, capable of being applied to almost any substrate. With that being said, there are several different types on the market. One is a urethane based formulation, while another is acrylic based. However, perhaps the best performing material on the market today is made with EPDM rubber. This is a synthetic rubber formulation that offers excellent UV resistance, is completely immune to dramatic temperature fluctuations, and can be applied in at any temperature, hot or cold.

EPDM Roof

The Advantages of Elastomeric Roof Coatings

You’ll find a number of advantages with these types of coatings. One of those is as mentioned – they can be applied in any temperature, which means repairs can be conducted at any time of year, whether the damage occurs in the heat of summer, or the cold of winter. That helps to limit the potential for additional leak-related damage to the interior of the structure. Another advantage is that these coatings are highly resistant to mold and mildew, making them excellent choices for use in areas where high humidity may make mold/mildew growth problematic.

What Can Elastomeric Roof Coatings Be Used For?

There are numerous potential uses for elastomeric roof coatings, ranging from repairs to resurfacing to replacing an existing roof. We’ll explore these uses below:

Repairs – One of the most interesting and beneficial uses for elastomeric roof coatings is to repair damage done to the roof. Due to their unique adhesion capabilities, these coatings can be used to repair damage to any other type of roofing system, including EPDM rubber, metal, asphalt shingles, and more. However, some surface preparation may be necessary for non-rubberized roof types to ensure that the coating will adhere properly. In most cases, this requires little more than applying a coat of primer before applying the coating.

Resurfacing – Aging roofs, particularly aging rubber roofs, and other flat roofing system types, need to be maintained over time. Resurfacing is one means of doing this. As they age, these roofing systems can become dry and brittle due to exposure to UV rays. By applying a thin coat just 35 mils thick over the top, elastomeric roof coatings can provide years more life out of the roof. It takes very little time to apply these coatings, and it can be done with simple, readily available hand tools, or with a sprayer.

Replacement – More and more, old roofs are being removed and replaced with elastomeric roof coatings. EPDM rubber roofs offer numerous benefits over most traditional roofing systems, including asphalt shingle, bitumen, tar and gravel, sheet metal, and more. The material is highly resistant to damage, there are no seams to leak, and a rubber roof can last 50 years or more with the right installation and a little bit of TLC over its lifetime.

In the end, elastomeric roof coatings are versatile solutions to roofing challenges large and small. Whether you need to repair, refresh, or replace your roof, using such a coating is a smart decision.

Is EPDM Roofing the Right Choice for Your Business?

Posted on August 20, 2018 by Brian McCallister

When it comes to your business, you need to make smart, informed decisions that maximize the return on your investment while protecting your bottom line. That applies to everything from the people you hire to the construction materials used to build the brick-and-mortar location that houses your company. When it comes to your business’ roof, you have a number of options. EDPM roofing is one of those, but is it the right choice for you?

The Lifespan You Need

Perhaps the single most important reason that you should consider EPDM roofing for your business is that it delivers an immense lifespan for less than you would spend on most other types of roofing. Where bitumen, and tar and gravel systems might last 10 years, and asphalt shingles may begin to fail around 25 years of age, a rubber roof can last 50 years or even longer when it is properly installed and maintained over time. That offers a significant return on your initial investment and protects your profitability.

Cost-Effective

EPDM roofing is very cost-effective. It costs less per square foot than most other roofing options on the market, and yet lasts longer than most other materials, too. And, while some maintenance is necessary, it’s low cost and not particularly involved. Over the lifetime of your roof, it’s possible that EPDM will save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Excellent Temperature Performance

The roof of your business experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations on a day to day basis, as well as season to season. This cycle of heating and cooling will damage, and even destroy most roofing materials over time. Not so with EPDM. With that being said, it is not completely impervious to the elements. Long-term exposure to the sun will eventually dry it out and it will start to become brittle, but regular maintenance will prevent this from being an issue.

Reduced Need for Maintenance

As mentioned, maintenance of an EPDM roof will be necessary, but it is not particularly involved. This material is highly resistant to most threats that would damage or destroy traditional roofing materials. It resists punctures, tearing, abrasions, and temperature fluctuations very well. An annual inspection is needed to make sure there is no damage that must be repaired, and it may be necessary to recoat areas that are damaged over time, but this costs just pennies on the dollar when compared to the maintenance of a regular commercial roof.

It’s a Green Solution

Finally, an EPDM roof is a green roof – not in the sense that it must be used to grow plants (although it is frequently used under rooftop gardens and other green areas), but in the sense that it includes a significant percentage of recycled materials. This prevents additional landfill waste and related pollution.

EPDM also has no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are known to cause health problems in many people. It’s also an ideal solution for underlayment beneath solar panels, ensuring a good, tight fit and no leaks. All of those benefits help your business operate greener, and save money, but they can also be important points for proving corporate responsibility to your clients or customers.

In the end, EPDM roofing is an excellent solution for virtually all businesses. Whether you have a flat roof or a pitched roof, there is an EPDM thickness that’s perfect for your needs. It offers reduced costs in range of ways, from installation time to maintenance costs, is greener than many other roofing options, and will stand the test of time for 50 years or even longer.

Why EPDM Is at the Top of the List of Roof Repair Materials

Posted on July 19, 2018 by Brian McCallister

Picking the right roof repair materials will make or break your project – literally.

If you don’t make the right choice with this decision, that roof is not going to get repaired and you’ll be back up there in no time after further damage has been done.

While there are countless roof repair materials out there to choose from, most would agree that EPDM is at the top of that list.

Green Products Are Better

The first reason EPDM is so popular is because green roof repair materials are better. Hopefully, we can agree that being environmentally friendly is a good idea. Unfortunately, they often cost a lot more.

With EPDM, you’re using recycled materials, which means they’re going to cost a lot less to produce. In turn, you’re paying less for them. Fortunately, you don’t lose any tensile strength by going this route.

EPDM Will Cut Utility Costs

EPDM is great for roofing because it seals in the house. This still applies if you’re looking for roof repair materials, though.

This material is so strong that you’ll see the results in your utility bill. The AC you pay so much for won’t leak out during those hot summer months. Likewise, when you’re spending money to keep your house warm, that hot air doesn’t rise up and out of your roof where there’s EPDM.

Waterproof Protection

While this should go without saying when it comes to roof repair materials, it’s still worth pointing out that this recycled material is waterproof. That should come as no surprise given how strong it is, but water will be kept away from your house so leaks don’t occur.

Long-Lasting Repairs

Nothing frustrates a homeowner more than repairing a roof only to have it suffer from further damage within a year or so.

Of all the options out there, you’ll have a hard time finding any that can outperform EPDM in this regard.

Studies have been done where EPDM applications have been checked after 30 years only to find that it is in just as good shape as it was the day it was first applied.

Keep in mind, too, that EPDM can be used in any climate. Its strength doesn’t break down from extreme heat or cold, so no matter where your home is located, this material is fantastic.

You Don’t Need to Spend a Fortune

Whether we’re talking about a single leak below a shingle or severe damage that was done by a massive storm, you don’t need to spend large sums of money on EPDM.

As we mentioned at the beginning, it’s largely made from recycled materials. On top of that, it’s so easy to apply that even if you pay someone else to do it, your costs will be minimal (but your results won’t).

EPDM will continue to grow in popularity for all of the above reasons. If you have roof repairs that need to be done, then, it’s easy to recommend this amazing material for the job – no matter how big or small it is.

How to Choose the Right Elastomeric Roof Coatings

Posted on June 21, 2018 by Brian McCallister

Many people today are choosing to have elastomeric roof coatings on their buildings because of the many benefits they can offer. They tend to be highly durable, and they can help to reduce the risk of leaks substantially.

However, there are a range of options on the market that promise a lot and end up not delivering. You need to make sure that you are choosing a high-quality product that will provide you with the true protection you need and deserve. The following are some of the important factors that you will want to consider when you are choosing elastomeric roof coatings.

Flexibility

One of the first things to consider will be the flexibility of the product. If you live in an area that has temperature extremes, you need to be sure that the coating is going to be capable of standing up to those changes without suffering damage. For example, if you live in an area where it snows and freezes in the winter, you need a product that can handle those temperatures. The same is true if you live in an area where there is a substantial amount of sunlight, and therefore heat, which strikes the roof.

Liquid Rubber is a great option because it can handle temperatures from -40 degrees F to 300 degrees F with no problem. The coating needs to be elastic enough that it can move and shift as the building materials expand and contract with the changing temperatures. If you don’t have a material that can do this, you are going to end up with cracks, which means it will be easy for leaks to occur.

Durability

How durable is the elastomeric roof coating you are considering? If you have a coating that is of poor quality, it might only last for a few years before it starts to crack or become chalky, neither of which you want. Instead, you need to choose a material that can last for decades. Again, Liquid Rubber is a great choice. This coating has been proven to last for many years without any issues.

Puncture Resistance

While you might not imagine there is anything that is going to puncture your roof, you might be in for a surprise. The wind can blow branches and all manner of other debris onto the roof. If you have a low-quality coating, it means that there is a chance that it could damage the roof. Having a quality material that is resistant to punctures will help to reduce this risk. Of course, you are still going to want to inspect the roof a couple of times a year to make sure there are no issues and that you remove any debris that might have accumulated there.

Ease of Application

Of course, one of the most important things that you will need to consider when it comes to your roof is the installation or application process. When you choose a liquid EPDM coating, you can take care of the application on your own, as it goes on much like paint. Before you choose a product, you will want to consider whether you can apply it on your own or if you are going to need to hire a professional.

As long as you take your time and understand the products that you are considering, you will be able to find the perfect elastomeric roof coatings for your building. When you spend a bit of time researching and understanding the products out there, it will make it far easier to make choices that you are happy with and that truly protects.