EPDM is a synthetic rubber polymer made from ethylene and propylene monomers. It was developed in the early 1960's and is used in radiator and steam hoses, freezer gaskets, tires, roofing membranes and aircraft seals to name only a few applications where EPDM is superior to other materials.

Answer: EPDM is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a synthetic rubber. It's a highly flexible stable material, a terpolymer of ethylene and propylene. It has a saturated polymer chemical "backbone," which gives it excellent resistance to ozone and many other advanced chemicals found in today's environment.

EPDM Rubber has been used in sheet form for more than 30 years. It is probably the most durable roofing product ever developed. Liquid EPDM Rubber is nearly identical chemically to the sheet EPDM but with the distinct advantage of being liquid. EPDM is unique among rubbers in that it is UV and ozone stable; it has superior water resistance; and can tolerate extreme cold to ?62? F. as well as heat exposures exceeding 300? F.

Black EPDM has a smooth surface similar to natural gray slate and does not contain surface granules that can eventually be lost on other materials. EPDM membrane is a vulcanized/thermoset membrane that has been fully cured in the manufacturing process prior to shipment and delivery to the job site. With aging, EPDM membrane will not leech or emit hazardous chemicals.

EPDM is one of the most sustainable and environmental materials used today in the construction industry. Its excellent performance transfers to low life cycle costs and less impact on the environment. The initial production of the membrane has a low embodied energy number (the amount of energy required to produce and implement a product from material extraction, manufacture, and installation).

After more than two decades of field exposure in different climatic conditions, samples collected of EPDM membrane show no evidence of crazing or cracking. As a result of the excellent UV resistance, EPDM membrane can be warranted up to 30 years.

With many EPDM installations exceeding 40 years of exposure in the field under various climatic conditions, none of the material tested has shown alarming signs of degradation. Even though it would be difficult to predict, studies have shown aged EPDM membrane as having a potential life expectancy of 50 years.

Generally speaking, system warranties that cover material and labor costs are available; and different manufacturers offer various assemblies with standard warranties that vary from 5 and 10 to 15 and 20 years. In addition, premium coverage up to 30 years is available and can include coverage for higher wind speeds, incidental puncture, and hail resistance.

EPDM membrane can be used for low and steep slope roofing, as well as unusually shaped structures (such as domes, barrels and other geometrically shaped roofs) due to its versatility. The membrane can be adhered, mechanically fastened, or loose laid. It can be installed above or below insulation (i.e., an IRMA application), and can also be used in below grade waterproofing applications.

When using liquid adhesive, adjoining sheets are cleaned with the manufacturer's recommended splice cleaner prior to applying the splicing adhesive. A sealant is used along the edge of the splice and is applied after allowing solvent in the adhesive to flash off (minimum 2 hours). Some manufactures have also used an additional sealant within the overlapping area that is applied immediately before putting the splice together.

Freezer applications typically utilize thicker insulation with greater R value (R 40 and above) that subject the membrane to extreme conditions (very hot on a hot day and very cold on a cold day). EPDM is known for its ability to remain stable during temperature extremes and heat-aging testing indicates no changes to physical properties.

There is no exact figure as conditions such as rain water evaporation off a hot EPDM surface are difficult to test. The formula for calculating this flow is called the Maming Formula. The American Society of Plumbing Engineers Data Book suggests that initially there will be some friction along the drainage path but it will quickly go to zero. On a low slope fully adhered EPDM Roof with slope of 1/4" per foot one could justify a coefficient of .95 to .99.

With over 1 billion square feet of membrane installed worldwide, EPDM has established itself as the membrane for all climatic conditions. This is supported by various laboratory studies and actual field installations. This excellent track record is the result of unique and unmatched physical characteristics: Structural deflection, improper drain placement, or an insufficient number of drains can result in low areas on the roof that allow moisture to collect and pond over a period of time.

EPDM roofing assembly can be designed to meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Factory Mutual (FM) fire classifications. Like in many other roofing assemblies, the fire retardency level will depend on roof slope and the various components utilized. Current UL and FM publications contain numerous listings of various approved assemblies. No. No special coating or other surface treatment is required.

Yes. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the Single-Ply Roofing Association (SPRI) publish standard details. However, manufacturers may have modified versions of these details which may not exactly match.