Benefits of EPDM – Rubber Roofing

What is EPDM?

EPDM is a rubber membrane that has taken over from traditional flat roofing materials such as felt, asphalt and hot melt bitumen. EPDM rubber stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer which just means it is a synthetic rubber.

Using EPDM rubber roofing has a multitude of benefits.

• It has a life expectancy of over 50 years
• Economical and cost effective
• Easy installation
• Eco-friendly
• Fully recyclable
• Approved for use in green roofs
• Flexible and won’t become damaged by ice or extreme heat
• Unaffected by UV rays
• Low maintenance
• Safer to install

How long will an EPDM rubber roof last?

EPDM is expected to last at least 50 years!

The first EPDM rubber flat roof was installed in the USA in the 1960’s by Carlisle Syntec (commonly known as ClassicBond in the UK). These rubber roof membranes are still protecting the roofs to this day.

Many schools, railway stations and shopping centre’s use EPDM covering as it is a proven sustainable, long lasting and very low maintenance flat roofing material.

How much does rubber roofing cost and why is it economical?

Rubber roofing is a very cost effective and economical system due to many factors. The cost of an EPDM membrane can often be cheaper than alternative systems. What really makes rubber roofing cost effective is that it will outlast most, if not all, other roof coverings with a 50 year life expectancy. The low maintenance requirements also add to the economical benefits of EPDM.

How much rubber roofing costs totally depends on the range of membrane you choose. At UK Flat Roofing we carry a wide range of EPDM rubber systems from our top tier range to some of our more cost effective ranges. But don’t worry, the cost effective products don’t compromise on performance. For example, our SkyGuard kits are ideal for DIY projects as they are sent with the exact amount of materials you require. This ensures there is no wastage making this an economical choice for your roof.

Is EPDM easy to install?

EPDM rubber roofing is an excellent choice for both DIYer’s and professional roofers as it is very easy to install. It can be installed in a variety of ways depending on what suits your project. It can be supplied in large single fit sheets up to 450sq.m or smaller rolls and can be easily joined and detailed in a variety of ways.

Why is EPDM rubber roofing eco-friendly?

Rubber roofing is eco-friendly as it is applied using very little energy, therefore reducing the overall carbon footprint. It is recommended by both the Government and the Kyoto Protocol as the most sustainable roofing material.

It can also be recycled at the end of its service life making rubber roof installation environmentally friendly.

Is EPDM roofing recyclable?

EPDM is also recyclable adding to the highly sustainable values of the system. This is a very unique feature that comes with EPDM rubber roofing systems. At the end of its life EPDM rubber can be broken down and used for multiple purposes such as rubber balcony tiles and as fuel; mitigating the use of fossil fuels.

Are EPDM flat roof systems suitable for green roofing?

Sedum roofs can be installed onto the EPDM rubber without the use of a root barrier that you would need on a traditional flat roof. Root barriers are expensive and this saves money on your living roof installation making it an economical choice.

How flexible is EPDM?

EPDM rubber is designed to be used in extreme temperatures from the coldest to the hottest climates. EPDM will remain flexible and stable from -45° C up to +120° C. This flexibility means the rubber roof membrane is resistant to cracking caused by temperature changes.

Is EPDM UV resistant?

Rubber is a UV stable product that isn’t affected by the harmful rays from the sun. This means that the rubber roof system won't degrade from UV damage unlike other roof coverings.

How is EPDM rubber membrane low maintenance?

A big part of what makes EPDM rubber roofing such a low maintenance system is due to the fact it does not support the growth of moss. The colour is also black / dark grey so it does not show dirt as most other commonly used materials will.

EPDM also has fewer seams to a traditional felt roof meaning you won’t need to check the seams for damage.

Why is EPDM safer to install?

EPDM rubber roof coating is safer compared to older roofing systems as it doesn't require a naked flame during installation, eliminating the risk of fires.

Some of our EPDM membranes also use water based adhesives for the largest centre sections of the roof when installing onto timber decks, reducing the use of solvent based glues.

Where are EPDM rubber roofs typically installed?

• EPDM rubber garage roofs
• Lining for gutters
• Balcony flooring
• Rubber shed roofing
• Extension roofs

Our Brands Of EPDM Include:

• RESITRIX
• HERTALAN
• SkyGuard
• ClassicBond