Tag Archives: EPDM

What You Need to Know About EPDM Roofing

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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

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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

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.

Need to Now Information Regarding Installation of EPDM Roofs

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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

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.

EPDM Rubber

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Ethylene Propylene Diene rubber commonly known as EPDM has a wide variety of applications. At operating temperatures of -450C to +1200C, EPDM has excellent application properties unlike other coatings on the market. It has a wide array of uses and offers high quality performance for processing and finished products. EPDM is superior in performance, ageing characteristics and overall durability compared to the general purpose or natural synthetic rubber products.

EPDM rubber has been very successful in many outdoor applications due to its extreme resistance capabilities to U.V rays, oxidations and the ozone as well as extreme temperatures. In addition, the electrical conductivity of EPDM rubber is very low and it is resistant to various polar chemicals. EPDM rubber is a result of scientific and engineering advancements combined with the latest extrusion equipment that make the EPDM membranes capable of;

  • Providing uniformity and consistency of a superior kind
  • Delivering among the top tensile strengths currently available in the industry
  • Air entrapment that is minimal in order to attain a uniform finishing
  • Weather ability and ozone resistance that is exceptional
  • A surface that is smooth and aesthetically superior

EPDM is not only practical and suited for a multitude of application but it’s also cost effective. Take for example roofing application. Other products while appear to be cheaper by the unit price these products require a primer and multiple coast which most times go way over the cost of the one coas system of Liquid EPDM rubber. There are roofs in service for over 26 years now with that same one coat application. Individuals and companies have saved thousands not just on the product cost but the likelihood of future repairs using lesser quality products.

Using the same non-EPDM based products for repairs is counterproductive and costly. Many of these products are not epdm, and are not ozone or UV resistant. Epdm is manufactured in such a way to provide maximum flexibility for expansion and contraction of roofs as surface temperatures of your roof changes. The lack of flexibility eventually leads to the cracking. The key benefit to EPDM rubber is that it can expand or contract with any kind of surface as temps or the change of season. EPDM rubber will also not crack due to fluctuations in temperature. Other non-EPDM based products tend to start bubbling or crack within less than 2 years, which raises costs for the business or individual, as they have to keep on installing new rubber.

The bottom line is that with EPDM rubber, the widths are wider and seams are fewer. These kinds of systems help to improve the contractors’ efficiency during the installation process. EPDM rubber provides for a clean, quick and inexpensive alternative for installation in a wide range of temperature conditions. The roofing systems provide excellent weather and UV resistance together with high elongation of the sheets. EPDM rubber maybe mechanically fastened, fully adhered or ballasted.

Elastomeric Roof Coatings are Designed for Many Benefits

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The use of EPDM is something that has become common in the last twenty-five years as more people have begun to discover the benefits of elastomeric roof coatings. It’s especially important considering the ways how it has been designed over the years for all kinds of functions.
EPDM was designed in the 1960s as a material that includes ethylene, propylene and diene monomers, hence the name it got. It was designed as a material that can be cured through heat to make sure its structure is consistent and that it will not wear or bend as easily as other roofing surfaces might.

The EPDM surface was originally used as a coating for mobile homes but it has evolved to become a coating for flat roofing surfaces on commercial buildings as well as outdoor decks. It has even become a staple on many traditional roofing surfaces in that it features a series of thick and strong polymers all designed to keep a roof protected.

In fact, elastomeric roof coatings come quite a way from the older materials people used to have on their homes. The days of sticking with traditional shingles or clay are still around but the option to go with EPDM has become something that is making people think a little differently about what they want to go along with.

The big point about this liquid coating is its ability to reflect heat. It is capable of keeping the inside of a building cool and has even received an Energy Star qualification for its ability to protect the inside of a home. The certification comes from how the user will be capable of preventing the property from dealing with too much heat at a given time, thus keeping the cost of air conditioning down during the hot summer months.

In fact, this reflective nature of the coating will be consistent no matter how long the coating is exposed to the sun. It will continue to operate without suffering from elongation or other problems that often get in the way of some roofing surfaces. This makes it easier for the surface to stay strong and intact for a while. The sun’s rays actually make it stronger after a while so it will continue to feel active.

It’s best to go with a white elastomeric roof coating when it comes to reflective properties. The fact is that a roof with a white coating is more likely to reflect the sun’s rays than others. Still, every color will work out just fine when it comes to keeping a space cool.

The surface is also non-flammable and will not be hurt or ignited due to any intense heat that comes around. It will not be likely to peel off after a while either. This means that the surface will be safe and the VOC content will be extremely low.

This low VOC content also makes it so the material will not be likely to create a substantial amount of fumes over time. This is a benefit that is needed because fumes can easily move into the environment and cause breathing difficulties. It might also be tough on the person who is busy installing the surface over a certain area.

The use of such a coating is a huge part of what makes it so different from the other choices on the market. An elastomeric roof coating can particularly be used to protect just about any kind of roofing surface one might have. It can be used on wood, copper, PVC and metal surfaces.

It can also be used in places where the natural environment is relatively comfortable. This should be applied at conditions of 42 degrees Fahrenheit or greater while the surface that is being treated is at a condition of 120 degrees or less. These are the only real limits for use but the substance will continue to function even after something is added to its surface.

An elastomeric roof coating will be a useful option to have for any kind of surface that one wants to install a roof onto. This coating is made with a substance that includes the right elastic polymers and can be used to keep light off of a property. It will make it easier for anyone to have a cooler and more comfortable home.

Protect Your Home with EPDM Roofing

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When it comes to the best protection for any building, the roof is the most vital part because it features strength and protection structurally for the building and everything within. In fact, homeowners will consider the cost as the most significant factor that determines the main roofing system for either residential or commercial properties. Additionally, there are several aspects which can bring major effect on the new roof installation cost. The first aspect is the material price. Price usually comes up with quality and this applies to the choices of the new roof. Yet, homeowners should also consider other factors like the fixtures of the homes like chimneys or skylights, and also the shape of the house.

All the same, thoughtless of one’s budget, one may generally figure out on a roofing proficient to ascertain a roof which can be dependable while long-lasting. Else than the cost, most alternatives from roofing systems can be based on the materials. Most houses in cold climate countries utilize shake shingles, asphalt shingles or metal, slate roofing materials and so forth. The price for each of those systems can vary depending on the home region climate. Each roofing system can provide several advantages.

EPDM rubber roofing can be the best alternative among those options mentioned above. The main reason is that this type of roofing is using synthetic rubber with proper thickness measurement. EPDM rubber roofing is not only the best option for personal homeowners, but it is also the best choice among business owners. EPDM remains as the best alternative for cost saving effort as it does not require high maintenance cost and the price of the roof itself is not so expensive, either. Besides, it is also very durable and versatile due to the rubber-based materials.

 

EPDM roofing is puncture-sensitive so that repairing one can be very easy—as long as professional roofers do this. Additionally, this kind of roofing has the enduring feature which makes it favorable among all homeowners. EPDM roofing materials are not only applicable to the houses for four seasoned countries, but it is also suitable for houses in tropical countries where the strong sun exposure and hard rain usually takes place. So, there should be no doubt in using EPDM roofing because of its rich features. Keep in mind that choosing only EPDM roofing from a reputable company is the best thing to do. There are hundreds of EPDM roofing materials providers which anyone can find through search engines, but finding the most dependable one can be a bit daunting. Choose the one with years of experiences and good reviews from current or previous clients as this is the best guarantee for your own risk free option.

For product information or ordering Visit http://www.epdmcoatings.com or their facebook page http://www.facebook.com/liquidepdm or call them at 855-281-0940.

The Benefits of Using EPDM Roofing Membranes

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written by: Brian McCallister

Most roofs will eventually leak due to the effects of weather, but not with EPDM roofing membranes. Millions of business owners and homeowners worldwide have been using Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer due to its efficiency in resolving leaking problems. Its flexibility, durability, resistance, superior weathering characteristics, and life cycle cost have contributed to the popularity of EPDM. For over four decades of outstanding performance, many contactors, suppliers, building owners, and schools have made EPDM their choice.

A research entitled “Service Life Tests for Roofing Membranes” published by ASTM International in 2003 suggests that single-ply roofing systems such as EPDM are able to provide similar or even better service life compared to the traditional asphalt roofing. The researchers tested several roof membranes including single-ply EPDM, PVC and TPO, two-ply SBS, and three-ply BUR. The authors noted that the EPDM is at the top of the class of modern roofing membranes. In several rigorous tests, the EPDM samples without reinforcements consistently rated the highest among the samples.

Due to EPDM’s dimensional ability, as well as its ability to contract and expand with movement, it has been used in a variety of climates. It is designed to resist harmful ozone exposure, cold cracking, and UV radiation. Becoming brittle in the future is unlikely for EPDM since it doesn’t depend on plasticizers to attain flexibility.

Black EPDM is a roofing membrane with a flexible rubber material component. Its strength and flexibility allows it to be contoured to uncommon shapes of any roof. Studies show that the black variety is water-tight and is able to withstand extensive exposure to heat, water, ozone, thermal cycling and ultraviolet radiation.

EPDM whether black in color or white version has very distinct advantages over other roofing sealants such as; its clean appearance, low maintenance, noise insulation, and temperature insulation qualities. Many people have been using the white variety on residential flats, boats, and mobile houses for over 25 years with outstanding success.

EPDM roofing membranes have been proven to have lower life cycle costs than other low-slope roofing systems such as built-up roofing, modified bitumen, and thermoplastic. It has long life expectancy ratings. Although rubber has been known to move, shift and/or crack and flake whenever the temperature drops or rises, this is not a problem with EPDM as it is built using advanced technology. This roofing material is highly flexible, and can even elongate over three times to cater for any movements in a building.

With so many roofing systems available in the market, EPDM membranes have a proven track record that confirms its suitability for majority of all roof types.