Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane used for low-slope applications in commercial structures. It has two primary ingredients: ethylene and propylene. Both are derived from oil and natural gas. EPDM is available in a wide variety of sizes but only two colors, black and white. You can also install them in two thicknesses, 45 and 60 millimeters.
We adhere EPDM to your building’s roof using a variety of methods, including liquid adhesives, mechanical attachments, ballasts, or industry-grade tape.
Why Choose EPDM Roofing?
EPDM has been around for over 40 years. Since its inception, its become one of the most popular types of roofing material on the planet.
At Intelligent Design Corp, we work with architects, building owners, and designers to implement EPDM roofing on all kinds of structures.
There are several advantages to utilizing this type of roofing:
- Cyclical membrane fatigue resistance
- Proven hail resistance
- High resistance to ozone, weathering, and abrasion
- Flexibility in low temperatures
- Superior resistance to extreme heat and fire
- Thermal shock durability
- Ultraviolet radiation resistance
What Are the Benefits of EPDM?
In addition to its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, there are also several benefits to installing EPDM roofing material on your commercial roof.
Exceptional Durability
EPDM is resistant to ozone, UV radiation, and harsh temperatures. With carbon black fillers inside the material, EPDM absorbs UV radiation and converts it to heat, which the membrane resists very well.
EPDM has no plastic material in it, so the material will not become brittle from plasticizer loss throughout the roof’s life.
Fast Installation
EPDM is available in large panels (30.5m x 5.8m) that can be installed using primers and self-adhesive products; no flames or electricity is required.
Low Repair Costs
With little or no maintenance required throughout the life of an EPDM roof and a competitive installation cost, EPDM roofing systems result in few repairs or component replacements.
Works in Any Climate
EPDM stretches to accommodate building movements in climates anywhere on the globe.
EPDM has proven performance in Minnesota winters and southern tropical regions.
Eco-Friendly
EPDM contains no plastic and is reusable, making it better for the environment than other materials. Because the material is so easy to install and manufacture, fewer resources are used in the overall process.
When the time comes for you to get a new roof, you can also have the material recycled for future use.
Installing the EPDM Roofing Membrane
The installation method for EPDM depends on the type of roofing surface. In some cases, we may install a certain type of roofing depending on the climate or environment your building is in.
We can install EPDM in three ways: fully adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted.
Fully Adhered
We can adhere the roofing across the surface. This creates a tight seal that makes it difficult for moisture or air to get underneath.
Mechanically Attached
Mechanical fasteners are used to attach the membrane through both the insulation and decking material at the seams.
Ballasted
Insulated sheets are laid loosely on the decking, and the EPDM sheets are applied. The entire roof is weighed down using ballast.
EPDM Installation Process
The EPDM installation process is quite simple, and most projects take only a few hours or days to complete.
Old roofing is removed and cleared, and the surface is cleaned and smoothed out to prepare it for the new roofing material.
A rubber membrane is laid out, allowing it to flatten for 30 minutes. Once it’s flattened, an adhesive is applied. Afterward, we sweep the membrane to remove any trapped air or moisture and cut back any excess material.
The process differs slightly for adhesives, mechanical attachments, or ballasted roofing.
Premier Commercial Roofers in Minneapolis
Intelligent Design Corp. specializes in commercial roofing for all large and small structures in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. If you have a hail-damaged roof or want a new roofing replacement, we can help you every step of the way.
To schedule an initial consultation, call us at 763-315-0745 or message us on our contact page. Protect your business with a solid EPDM roof today!
