Why would you require EPDM adhesive if the material is able to be installed through a mechanical attachment method? There are a few reasons that EPDM adhesive (the most appropriate EPDM adhesive) is essential to a good outcome.

What is EPDM Roofing?

EPDM or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer is a wildly popular roofing material used on low-slope and flat rooftops. Many property owners, in addition to those with flat or low-slop roofs choose it because of its wide-ranging applicability. It is able to be installed over almost any existing roof (with the exception of tar, asphalt, shingles or asphalt rolled roofing because the oils in these petroleum-based materials will fail to bond) as long as there is a newer layer of plywood or appropriate boarding beneath.

All EPDM roofing materials are available in black or white colors. You would choose your color based on such factors as the amount of sunlight the roof receives and whether or not you want that roof to absorb the light and heat or reflect it back and away from the building.

You must also choose the width of the EPDM material and the thickness, as it arrives in rolls that are then applied wherever needed. The edges of the rolls overlap as you install them. You will choose the type of installation you will use based on the roof itself. Is it new? Is it older and being being replaced covered by the new material? You will have to have the existing roofing prepped properly and then installation can begin.

Using EPDM Roofing and Adhesives

Then comes the role of the EPDM adhesive. As you roll out the individual strips of the roofing material, they are overlapped and must then be bonded together and to the surface to create a waterproof skin or shield; making the new rooftop. Technically, an EPDM adhesive is viewed as one of two options:

• You can find an actual adhesive or glue-like material; or
• You can find a tape made specifically for the roofing material (NOTE: If you opt for tapes, the roofing application will still require what is known as a primer or adhesive primer to be applied to the rubber, so you won’t save a step by opting for tapes)

The Ease of EPDM Installation

The good news about any type of EPDM adhesive is that it is an easy to install option. The key is to be sure that the surface is both clean and dry. Any sharp edges or debris must be removed as it runs the risk of puncturing or weakening the roofing. Once the basic prep is done, and as long as you have a material suited for treatment with the EPDM material, you need only lay out the materials as they will be installed and begin the adhesion process.

This is done through the use of a roller and the adhesive is applied to the exposed decking materials as well as the back of the roofing material. Areas of overlap will become “seams”, and these will bond to create an impervious finish. You can also apply a bead of caulk once the adhesive has formed.

Installing EPDM roofing is not something possible on a year-round basis in all locations. Air temperatures have to allow the roofing to “relax” and open after being unrolled, and humidity has to be within workable ranges. Usually EPDM adhesives will work when it is 40 degrees and higher 24 hours a day (before, during and after application). If it is cold or very damp and humid, it is best to wait for more amenable conditions.

The good news is that the use of EPDM roofing and adhesives is a common choice with low-pitch and flat roof structures because, when installed correctly, offers a water tight and long-lasting finish.

Have you been considering getting an EPDM roof for your business, or for another property that has a flat or low-sloped roof? If you want to have EPDM membranes and all of the benefits that they can provide, it tends to be a good idea to hire professional contractors for the installation.

Why Not DIY?

For those who have the time and the patience to learn how to install this type of roofing membrane, it may be possible to install on your own. However, if you have a large roof, or if you do not want to go through the hassle, working with contractors will be far more efficient. The contractors already have the tools and experience needed to install these types of roofing systems, which means they can likely do it in a fraction of the time that you would take. Of course, one of the biggest benefits is that they know how to install the membranes correctly to ensure they are doing their job.

The EPDM Roof Life Could Be Reduced If the Installation is Poor

You have probably heard that the EPDM roof life is between 20 and 30 years in most cases. This is true, and it means that you should end up having a lot less to worry about with your roof for quite some time. However, if you were to install the roof on your own, there is the chance that you might not do it properly. There could be gaps, debris left between the roof and the membrane, and other issues. Perhaps you did not use a good EPDM adhesive, and the membranes are not staying put.

There are many “little things” that you might not have gotten right, and this would mean that the EPDM roof life for your roof might not be quite as impressive. If you installed it incorrectly, it might only last a couple of years before you notice a problem. This essentially negates many of the benefits that EPDM can offer. To circumvent this problem, you can hire a professional team that can install the roofing for you. Most of the time, they will have a warranty for the product and labor.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractors for the Job

Knowing that you should use a contractor and actually hiring the right contractor are two different things entirely. When you are choosing a contractor, you will want to take the time to learn more about their experience and check their reputation. Have they worked with EPDM roofing systems in the past? Do they have any examples of their work on their website? Check for testimonials from customers, and check to make sure they are licensed and insured for work in your state.

What About Liquid EPDM Roof Installation

You will find that the liquid EPDM roof installation tends to be faster and easier, and this could be something that you might want to try on your own. If you know how to use a paint roller and a paintbrush, you should not have any problems, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. However, those who have large roofs that they need to cover might still want to work with contractors, as they can take care of the job in less time. This will allow you to get on with the other aspects of running your business.

An EPDM roof can be a huge benefit to a business by providing true protection for the roof from the elements. Just make sure you have it installed properly.

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.