EPDM has been in use on roofs in the USA since the 1960's and is one of the most common types of low-slope roofing materials. This is because it is relatively inexpensive, simple to install, and fairly clean to work with when compared to conventional built-up roofs. There aren't the odors and fumes that accompany built-up roofs which appeals to many property owners and managers.  Retro-fit your existing roof system with an EPDM coating to increase the

Energy

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). In addition several other components (such as cleaners, primers and adhesives) were developed for use with the EPDM membrane to reduce VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions during installation.

Post-industrial products can be reincorporated (recycled) into the manufacturing of other roofing products and accessories (i.e., walkways and roofing tiles), thus minimizing the impact on landfills.

Strength

EPDM is a rubber material whose principal components consist of the compounds ethylene and propylene. A flexible rubber matrix forms when a small amount of diene is added to the mix. EPDM is available reinforced or unreinforced with both commonly used; it's also available in either a cured (vulcanized) or uncured (non-vulcanized) state. Vulcanized EPDM is the most common with non-vulcanized often used for flashing purposes.  

EPDM membrane thickness ranges from thirty mils (0.030") to one-hundred mils (0.100") with the most common thicknesses being forty-five mils (0.045") and sixty mils (0.060").

Installation

There are three standard application procedures: (1) fully-adhered; (2) mechanically-fastened; (3) loose-laid.  

Fully-adhered EPDM uses water or solvent-based adhesives to adhere the rubber to the substrate.

Mechanically-fastened EPDM is attached by manufacturer-approved mechanical means to the substrate, and loose-laid membranes are secured only at the perimeters and any penetrations. A ballast of round river rock or concrete pavers is used to hold the materials in place. River rock is usually installed at a rate of 1000 - 1200 pounds per roof square (100 square feet) and the pavers generally weigh approximately 20 pounds per square foot. Structural integrity is important with loose-laid roof systems. The seams of all systems are then sealed using either an adhesive or a splice tape. Splice tapes have tested with a higher tear-strength.