Choosing an EPDM Roofing Waterproofing Membrane

Choosing an EPDM Roofing Waterproofing Membrane

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene) is an extremely durable roofing membrane that has been used on commercial roofs for over 30 years.epdm roofing waterproofing membrane It is highly flexible, easy to work with, and can be a great solution for low slope or flat roofs that require waterproofing. It is also fire resistant and doesn’t need to be flamed to install, which can save on installation costs. These factors make it an ideal roofing option for many buildings. However, it isn’t without its drawbacks. It doesn’t protect the structure as well against heavy rains or hail as other roofing materials. It is also typically a black color, which absorbs the sun’s rays and can increase energy costs in the summer. In some cases, a light color version of the EPDM membrane may be more suitable.

There are several different options for EPDM roofing, and choosing the right thickness will play a large role in how well your building is protected from the elements.epdm roofing waterproofing membrane The most important factor when deciding on an EPDM membrane thickness is the region where your building is located and its prevailing weather conditions. The thicker the EPDM, the better it will hold up to extreme conditions like heavy snowfall and windy environments.

Generally speaking, EPDM membranes are available in four thickness options: 45 mil, 60 mil, 80 mil, and 90 mil.epdm roofing waterproofing membrane The 45 mil option is best for buildings in less harsh climates and is a popular choice for commercial buildings in New England and Connecticut. The 60 mil option is better suited for harsher weather conditions and can resist punctures and leaks more effectively than the 45 mil choice. The 80 mil and 90 mil options are designed to resist damage caused by hail, heavy wind, and big trees more than the other thicknesses and can be a good choice for large commercial buildings in Northern New England or areas of the United States with severe storms.

The method of installation will also influence how the EPDM membrane performs on your roof. The most common EPDM assembly is the mechanically fastened option, which uses metal fasteners and plates to connect the membrane directly to the insulation board and roof decking. This assembly is the fastest and easiest to install, but is also more prone to fastener backout and may not be as strong as a fully-adhered option.

Another assembly option is the ballasted system, which involves loose-laying the EPDM membrane on top of a layer of round stones. This system inherently provides UV protection as the stones block close to 100% of sunlight exposure and it can also provide a decorative look to your building. However, the stones can become damaged from wind-blown debris and frequent use by tradespeople performing inspections or repairs on the roof. The constant weight of the stones can also cause faster weathering compared to other methods of EPDM assembly. This is why the fully-adhered application method is preferred by Roof Hub for most EPDM projects.

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