epdm roofing installation

2021/05/21

If your rubber roofing type requires an added insulation layer underneath, install that now, making sure to have a nice flat surface to work with and lay the rubber roofing on top. EPDM should not be exposed to grease, solvents, oils, and petroleum products; fortunately, these are not usually a factor on residential roofs. Now you are ready to fasten the term bar. For additional information, please feel free to contact our knowledgeable and experienced sales staff at (866) 630-7660. When gluing down the top sheet, be careful not to get any adhesive on the overlap area. When terminating on wood, screws may be used to fasten the bar. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $6,000 and $18,000 (or between $3.25 and $14.75 per square meter) for an installation. ply single roofing epdm systems rubber roof google installation construction You may be wondering what the advantages of EPDM rubber roofing installation include. Most of my residential EPDM jobs are replacements for roofs that dont drain. EverGuard thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), EPDM Rubber Roofing: Pros, Cons, and Cost to Install. Two of the most popular roofing materials on the market are metal and asphalt, and both offer different pros and cons to a customer. But its much more complex than that. Fold membrane back over itself. Our team at Legacy Service can provide you with a free estimate for roofing replacement. Fortunately, youve found a roofing company you can trust. Rubber roofing contractors typically charge an average of $75 and $90 per hour on top of the cost of the materials. When were sure the sheet is where we want it, we roll it back onto itself halfway (see photo). Homeowners may not choose it for aesthetic purposes, but its practical and durable, and it will certainly get the job done in terms of protecting your property from the elements. Youve come to the right place! In most cases, its not about whether EPDM or TPO is better than the other but about which is best for your situation. Figure 2. Screws and large metal fastener plates secure the insulation board to the roof deck. When it comes to EPDM roofing membrane installation, this material is both quick and easy to install for EPDM roofing companies. In most cases, with a 20-foot-wide roll, we can cover a residential roof area without creating seams. In cases where the old half-lap or built-up roof has leaked, I check the framing to make sure theres no rot, and replace or reinforce members as necessary. So whether you are fully adhering, mechanically adhering, heat applying, cold applying, or nailing down the material, do it to the proper specifications as laid out by the manufacturer. EPDM was developed as a pond liner.

It also offers more protection from punctures than EPDM. Brushing the surface with a stiff deck broom ensures good adhesion. Using a flat pry bar, carefully remove the existing shingles or rubber layers, flashing, nails/fasteners, vents, along with any other debris before moving on. One of the primary benefits of EPDM rubber roofing is ease of installation. Lets face it: as functional as this roofing material is, it isnt exactly pretty to look at. If your commercial roof requires a larger size, we recommend calling our professionals for assistance, since improperly installed seams are one of the biggest causes of, Applying bonded adhesive to roof and wall edges, Sealing roof corners using pressure-sensitive flashing such as Elastoform, Creating watertight seals for any equipment with roof penetrations, Affixing the drip edge, wall trim and gutter trim using screws. Be sure membrane is in position and all wrinkles are out before applying adhesive. EPDM often comes in large rolls that can be laid on flat or low slope roofs to create a seamless watertight seal for commercial structures. Follow the previous installation instructions for EPDM roofing adhesive and brushing, leaving a narrow border at the roofs edge for the finishing portion. I usually buy 100-foot-long rolls of 20-foot-wide material. Its also durable in harsh weather conditions, from hail and wind to snow and ice. Applying special tape or liquid rubber may be all thats needed to fix a leak. The most common complaint about EPDM rubber roofing is that it can be quite slippery when wetbut this isnt a major concern when appropriately installed on structures with little foot traffic. Another one of the great things about EPDM is that its designed to be resistant to harsh winds. It has numerous advantages, from being the least expensive to install and repair to being durable, long-lasting, and lightweight. To complete this installation method, glue down the roofing sheets to the surface beneath them. TPO or thermoplastic polyolefin roofing is probably the most affordable option of the three main rubber roof options. On a residential job, I typically use 1-inch board which has an R-value of 6. This usually means that potential leaks can be rarer for this type than other kinds. EPDM stands apart from and above other single-ply rubber membranes. Optional: Apply a bead of caulk to the edge of the seam. TPO Versus PVC Roofing: Which Option Is Better? This material is essentially made of rubber, so hail stones will simply just bounce off of it. Well, that depends! Synthetic roofing materials look and feel like the real thing (slate, concrete, clay), but with the lower price tag of rubber. The average lifespans for each thickness include: EPDM should be installed by professional roofers. Ask your local roofing contractor about the various EPDM rubber roofing thicknesses. Copyright 2022 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Various rubber roofing types require various adhering techniques. Since its rolls are long and wide, they have fewer seams to fail than metal sheets and asphalt shingles. We cover the pros and cons of EPDM in a section above. The key to knowing how to install EPDM roofing lies in starting with a clean surface. If you live in the north or a colder region, you may benefit most from black EPDM because it soaks up the sun and helps retain heat. DIY roofing mistakes most often happen during this stage, so be sure to take your time, use the appropriate tools and materials, and dont guessif in doubt, call the pros. If you have a flat or low slope roof that cant be seen from the ground and needs plenty of protection, this type of material is highly recommended. They provide protection from wind, rain, hail, sunlight, and extreme temperatures. It usually costs between $2.50 and $8.50 per square meter. JLC subscribers have access to the July/August 2022 print edition at this time. This material usually costs between $5 and $16.50 per square meter. Whether youre looking to DIY a flat rubber roof or shingles, this guide can be your go-to for the job. Two or more layers will typically require removal, though. Whats good to remember, though, is that its one of the most cost-effective materials that you can choose for your home. And if installed correctly, the product is virtually failure-proof. Today well walk you through each and help you determine which is best before tackling your DIY install. So out of necessity, I began using EPDM for these jobs: Its light, durable, and easy to install. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Like any other roofing material, EPDM roofs may require occasional maintenance and repairs. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which is the chemical makeup of this highly durable, commonly used roofing material. Because many rubber roofs might have a lower lifespan compared to other roofing materials (20-30 years), it can save a lot of money by knowing how to DIY rubber roofing repair and replacement. Fully-adhered membrane-only EPDM weighs only about a half a pound per square foot for 60 mil while the average asphalt shingle weighs about 2.3 lbs per square foot. Can a Metal Roof be Installed Over Shingles? It has numerous advantages, from being the least expensive to install and repair to being durable, long-lasting, and lightweight. The roofs should be kept clean and free from debris. Biggest Trends: Commercial Roofing in Michigan in 2021, Your Complete Commercial Roofing Systems Guide. Continue reading to find out more about the average cost of materials, the average cost of labor, and the costs of accessories and tools that are typically needed.

Once youre ready to begin working with your EPDM rolls, youll need to prepare the sheets. I primarily use EPDM made by Roofing Products International (RPI, 5120 Beck Dr., Elkhart, IN 46516; 800/628-2957). I used to use splicing adhesive until seam tape became available; now I use only seam tape: It makes a stronger seam, and the seam is completely waterproof an important feature on a flat roof where snow sits or where water might pond. EPDMs cost-effectiveness is part of what makes it currently one of the most popular roofing types on the market.

Youll have to buy this board through a roofing supply house. Well explain more about each of them below. The membrane needs to be completely unfurled and laid flat over the roof surface. If youre planning to install a new roof this year, we recommend getting started as early as possible. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"EPDMs cost-effectiveness is part of what makes it currently one of the most popular roofing types on the market. Since EPDM is easily installed with large sheets, it is far less labor intensive than conventional roofing methods. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"An EPDM roof thats well-designed and properly installed can last up to 50 years.

","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Your EPDM roofing cost can vary depending on a number of factors. Choosing the best roofing material for your home is the first important step in ensuring that you have the highest quality roof possible. Tell us a little bit more details about your project: We have received your request and will contact you during business hours. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (or EPDM) is a type of roofing material thats used for flat roofing systems. Its widths range from 7.5 to 50, and its thicknesses are available in 45 mil (1.1mm), 60 mil (1.5mm), 75 mil (1.9mm) and 90 mil (2.3mm). PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is another popular rubber roofing alternative. It can be tempting for some homeowners to install the roof themselves, but unless you have the necessary tools and proper experience, its best to hire professionals to do it for you. (If the rubber is stretched, this puts a built-in stress on the seam.) They are naturally UV resistant, easy to install, and incredibly energy efficient. The surface also needs to be completely dry.

Once youve finished the entire surface of the roof, do one final check being mindful of any seams, roofing elements like vents and chimneys, and the edges of the roof. JLC Online: Best practices for professional builders and remodelers. Next, youll want to secure the roof decking as best as possible. Lets take a look at the average costs you may be facing: For installation, the EPDM roofing cost per square foot will normally range between $3.25 and $14.75. If youre a remodeler faced with this situation and you go to the lumberyard to buy materials, theyll probably sell you 17-inch selvage roll roofing and a few cans of cold patch cement and send you on your way. Its made from a lower percentage of oil and petroleum products than thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), making it much more eco-friendly. Pinterest, Wayne County Office: (734) 564-0371 In many cases, its cheaper to install than EPDM and may even last longer. As a roofing contractor with a reputation to protect, I wasnt about to resort to roll roofing for residential flat roof repairs. But in over 20 years of installing EPDM roofs, Ive never had a product failure. After properly resting, the EPDM sheet is ready for installation. Touch adhesive with finger. We cover the pros and cons of EPDM in a section above.

Commercial Roof Repair: When Do You Need It And How Much Will It Cost? Out of the three most common types of commercial roofing systems (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), EPDM is typically designed to be the longest-lasting. Look for gaps, bumps, peeling edges, and anything else that can be easily tacked down before finalizing the project. The average price is about $4.50 and $5.50 per square foot. When would you like this request to be completed? Then, during the early 1970s, someone had the bright idea that if it worked under water, why not use it as a roof?

EPDM is one of the best choices for a flat or low slope roof. Some applications will require that the membrane go from a flat surface to a 90 angle up an adjoining surface.

Experts recommend repainting once every decade to keep its color vibrant. Technically, some rubber roofs can be laid over existing layers, but its always best practice to tear off the old roofing and replace it new. Codes will vary from area to area, but if theres only one layer, you most likely wont need to remove the old roof. The professional team at Gouge can help guide you through the proper installation steps or come by to make sure it gets done without fail. EPDM is usually the longer-lasting material of the two, but TPO is designed to provide better energy efficiency, especially in warmer climates since it helps reflect sunlight. Typically, a flat roof on a one-story addition can be seen from a second-floor window, but thats it. The bottom sheet (the downhill sheet in a sloped roof) is first fully adhered to the deck. If youre interested in EPDM roofing installation, please feel free to get in touch with our team of experts. TPO comprises various types of rubber, including polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rather than layers of plastic materials, making them incredibly flexible and durable. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing material that stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. But generally speaking, for all methods, lay out the sheets and pull them taught over any ridges or valleys to create a tight seal across the entire surface area before securing it into place. Theyre lightweight, flexible, and have high resistance to wind, hail, extreme temperatures, thermal shock, UV radiation, and more. A wide operating temperature range contributes to the durability and lifespan of this roof. The process is repeated for the other half of the sheet. The 4 Most Energy-Efficient Commercial Roofing Systems. Installing rubber roofing is a big job so we always recommend hiring a professional installer like Gouge, but it can be done if you follow the proper steps. If you ever feel like youre over your head on this, please reach out to us for a FREE quote. In recent years, though, because of its amazing qualities, EPDM is finding its way into more and more residential projects. If youre completing the roof installation or replacement job yourself, youll need to make sure you have the necessary tools and materials before you get started. Its also advantageous when the installation is being completed in cold weather. NOTE:Roof-TopBonding Adhesive is designed to adhere EPDM to wood, concrete, or metal surfaces.

However, the good news is that while no roof is fully resistant to everything, a ballasted EPDM, fully-adhered roof actually comes pretty close. Watch your step, keep sharp objects off the roof surface, and be careful mounting and dismounting the roof. The fastener plates sit slightly proud of the surface, so when the EPDM is installed, the plates are easy to see through the rubber. Should you install it?\n\nIf you have anything other than a flat or low slope roof, EPDM probably wouldnt be the right choice. First things first, youll want to gather all the necessary tools and materials for your project. Figure 1. Articles will be published online soon. If youre interested in a thermoset EPDM roof membrane for your home, contact us today to schedule an appointment. After the adhesive has tacked up, workers roll the EPDM into place (top). How Much Will Your New Commercial Roof Cost? The one place that leaves rubber roofs most susceptible to leaks is at their seams. A rubber roof is, you guessed it, a roof made of rubber materials. The roof can be attached through adhesives, ballasting, or mechanical attachment. Some EPDM roofs require no maintenance other than an acrylic paint job once every decade. It can be used for commercial and residential buildings that have roofs with low slopes. To secure the membrane in this situation, it is recommended to use a termination bar. The edge can then be finished with lap caulk or just left as is, since the exposed edge of the seam tape acts as a water stop. If you choose EPDM for your home, you can rest assured youre making a good choice. Remove any debris or sharp edges that may be on the deck. Most homeowners can expect to enjoy the roof for at least 30 years if its well-designed and properly installed. First, its energy-efficient because it helps reflect sunlight away from a building, allowing air conditioners to work more efficiently during the summer months. So once you have all of your tools and materials, its time to start tearing off the old roofing. Get an estimate or schedule your appointment today, Home | Our Blog | EPDM Rubber Roofing: Pros, Cons, and Cost to Install, Reviewed by Tomas Kalkys. EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing material that stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. Whether you live in a primarily hot or cold region, EPDM is a great choice in terms of saving energy. Most roofs arent built for the extra weight of ballast, and its insanity to fire up a torch on the roof of a wood-frame building. Installing new EPDM on faulty, incorrectly leveled or damaged roofing wont improve matters. Cost-effectiveness and durability are two reasons why EPDM roofing is one of the most popular flat roof systems currently used in the United States. A fully adhered roofing system will usually be the most time-consuming to install but will also have the longest lifespan. One of the weaknesses of EPDM roofing is that it can puncture depending on the object and membranes thickness. In the case of commercial roofs with drainage or ponding problems, its always best to call a professional for assistance. Fold the top sheet back into place with paper backing still on the Zip Tape. One of our technicians will help you select the roofing type (TPO roofing vs. EPDM) thats best for your home and needs. Its considered to be one of the strongest and durable types; it has a 50% higher breaking point than industry standards and can stand up to extreme weather. If youve decided to install or replace the roof yourself, youll have to purchase accessories and tools. They include: It might seem pretty easy to install, but its not recommended for homeowners to be installing EPDM roofs by themselves. In the north, you may want to choose black rubber to draw in heat and lower your heating bill, and in the south, you may be recommended white EPDM roofing to help reflect the suns heat and reduce your cooling bill. For EPDM roofing membrane, you can expect to spend somewhere between $3.25 and $14.75 per square foot for the material and installation. If youre interested in EPDM roofing installation, please feel free to get in touch with our team of experts. It needs to be applied to both the roof surface and the membrane itself. If using water-based adhesive, the technique involves spreading adhesive onto the roof using a paint roller in sections of three or four feet across the leading edge. This is because rubber roofing isnt generally suited for residential homes, but if your home isnt suitable for standard shingles, then rubber roofing might be your best option. The three methods of installation include: mechanically-fastened, adhered, and ballasted. I cant count the number of times a homeowner has called me to fix a leaking flat or low-slope roof. It may even begin to break down when it comes into contact with them.

One of the most significant benefits of rubber shingles is that they are much stronger than asphalt shingles and can last for nearly three times as long. EPDM is primarily available in black and white and is commonly used for flat roofs because it has the added benefit of being UV-resistant which means less chance of cracking due to sun damage. For the best results on how to install EPDM roofing that is perfect in every sense, contact our professionals at Summit Commercial Roofing right away. If you do have one of the two, lets continue! Make sure you carefully trim the top sheet before sticking it down: Its edge should be parallel to and 1/8 inch back from the edge of the seam tape. Open bonding adhesive and stir until color is uniform (about 5 minutes). Finally, roll the seam with a hand roller to get 100% adhesion, then apply a bead of a special lap caulk to the edge of the seam to keep water from getting between the layers. Its appearance is nothing to write home about. The ballast helps protect the membrane from damage by ultraviolet light, tree branches, and hail. Theyre lightweight, flexible, and have high resistance to wind, hail, extreme temperatures, thermal shock, UV radiation, and more. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (or EPDM) is a type of roofing material thats used for flat roofing systems. Follow the same motion as during installation. These steps will be a basic guideline for installing rubber roofing but may vary depending on if you are installing EPDM, PVC, TPO, or shingles. Rubber shingles are also much lighter than other roofing materials and contain no fiberglass or harsh chemicals, making them safer for installers. Your EPDM roofing cost can vary depending on a number of factors. Check with your local roofers to get an estimate for your home. This means removing all dirt, debris, grease, and other contaminants. These supplies will usually cost between $350 and $450 depending on what you need to buy. The demand for roofing has grown since last year, manufacturers are increasing the prices for their materials. The letters stand for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which describes its chemical makeup. What Is the Best Material for a Flat Roof? Our team at Legacy Service can provide you with a free estimate for roofing replacement. With the addition of a fire retardant (AFR) layer to an EPDM roofing product, the overall system will be fire-resistant. Signs that You Need a New Commercial Roof, Life Spans of Commercial Flat Roof Membranes. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) has been gaining in popularity in recent years for a few reasons. When using seam tape, the manufacturer recommends both cleaning and priming the mating surfaces. On rooftop decks, EPDM can be covered with a wood deck on pressure-treated sleepers, with outdoor carpet or Astroturf, and even with concrete pavers. Then the rest phase begins, which allows the rubber to expand naturally. There are several alternatives to EPDM, with two of the most common being TPO and PVC. by 3dcart Hosted Ecommerce. So today, well walk you through the steps to get it done right the first time. This step involves several individual processes: When executed correctly, these finishing touches leave your roof beautiful and ready to handle any kind of rough weather for decades. You need one fastener per every 2 square feet. EPDM will stretch without tearing, and holds up well to the rigors of installation. These are typically types of modified bitumen, which, though less expensive, are not as good as EPDM. Since it has the ability to expand or contract when needed, this roofing material resists cracking in extremely hot or cold temperatures. We believe the best way to serve our customers is with respect and care. Try to avoid any thick areas or puddles of adhesive. If the pros outweigh the cons for you, then it may be time to schedule an appointment. That way, for warranty work, the manufacturers inspector can identify and count the plates to be sure that enough were used. Interested in learning more about installing or replacing an EPDM roof on your home?

We can show you how to install EPDM roofing in no time, but first, what does EPDM roofing installation drip edge involve? Depending on where you live in the United States could affect which color would work best for your homes energy efficiency. EPDM isnt the only type of flat roof; there are a variety of other thermoset types with differing costs. {"@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What is EPDM Roofing? Call (734) 564-0371 or fill out our online form today to request a quote on our commercial roofing services. Its available in both black and white, and you can find it in a variety of widths and thicknesses. Preventing Drainage Problems on Low-Slope Roofs, A Versatile Fluid-Applied Roofing Solution, Vent Away: The Importance of Proper Roof Ventilation, The Last Word (We Hope) on Vapor Barriers, A Builder's Guide to Breathable Indoor Air, Building a Deck With a Welded Steel Frame.

We offer free consultations to homeowners throughout southeastern PA, NJ, and DE. It can be used for both residential and commercial structures that have low slopes.\n\nEPDM flat roofs are designed to last about 25-30 years. Fortunately, these arent usually a factor when it comes to residential roofs. Replacing a roof is an expensive decision, and cannot only come down to cost. Although theyre not usually needed on residential jobs, seams are not difficult with EPDM, but you must make them carefully. Also, the maintenance needed is minimal compared to other roofing types. But if you install a half-lap roof in a climate that gets much weather, chances are in a few years the homeowner will be calling you again. Is a Metal Roof Better Than a Shingle Roof? Are you ready to see why were one of the best commercial roofing companies in Southeast Michigan? In order to keep sheets perfectly straight, and minimize the chances of bubbles or creases, the next step is to measure and mark the project area using chalk or a pencil. Unless youre experienced in installing EPDM and have the correct specialized tools, you should hire a team of professionals to complete the job for you. This is how to install EPDM roofing correctly.

A ballasted system is when the roof is loose-laid over the insulation. All decking must be adequately fastened. On rooftop decks, EPDM can be covered with a wood deck, outdoor carpet, or Astroturf. Next, we lay down a covering of polyisocyanurate insulation board (see Figure 1). ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"There are a number of factors to consider when deciding upon your roofing material, whether its EPDM or another type.\n\nFor now, lets focus on EPDM. Generally speaking, its ideal to work with half a sheet at a time. Founding farther of Legacy Service. This makes it one of the fastest and easiest rubber roofs to install, repair, or replace. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is EPDM roofing any good?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes! Durability. There are a number of factors to consider when deciding upon your roofing material, whether its EPDM or another type. Then apply. With splicing adhesive, you allow for a 6-inch overlap.

It can be used for commercial and residential buildings that have roofs with low slopes. PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride, is another one of the most popular types of thermoplastic membrane. Then, double-check your work and look for any gaps or cracks. EPDM flat roofs are designed to last about 25-30 years. Whether youre in need of roofing installation, siding replacement, or another type of service, you can rely on our team of professionals here at Legacy Service.