Installation & FAQ
EPDM ROOFING INSTALLATION INFO
One of the primary benefits of EPDM rubber roofing is ease of installation. Since EPDM is easily installed with large sheets, it is far less labor intensive than conventional roofing methods. We recommend the fully adhered method of installation. Simply use Roof-Top bonding adhesive to adhere EPDM to the underlying surface.
For easy step-by-step instructions on installing your EPDM rubber roofing, please review the installation instructions below and/or order our installation DVD. For additional information, please feel free to contact our knowledgeable and experienced sales staff at (888) 838-4017.
Adhering Membrane to Surface
Items required:
-EPDM membrane
-Bonding adhesive
-Paint roller
-Utility knife or scissors
-Push broom
-Gloves and eye protection recommended
NOTE: Bonding Adhesive is designed to adhere EPDM to wood, concrete, or metal surfaces. Asphalt products such as adhesives or sealants should not be used with EPDM, as they can shorten the life of the membrane.
1. Make sure that the surface is clean and dry. Remove any debris or sharp edges that may be on the deck. All decking must be adequately fastened. If it is not possible to clean the existing roof (E.G. - a shingle, half lap, or a gravel surface), lay a minimum 1/2" Polyisocyanurate Board, fasten these boards to existing deck as recommended by the fastener supplier.
2. Unfold the membrane, then lay it into position. Allow membrane to hang over roof edge approximately 3" and turn up walls 12". Allow membrane to relax 30 minutes to remove wrinkles. Fold membrane back over itself.
3. Open bonding adhesive and stir until color is uniform (about 5 minutes). Be sure membrane is in position and all wrinkles are out before applying adhesive.
4. Apply adhesive to the exposed deck and to the back of the membrane. Be sure to work in sections that are easier for you to work with. Be careful not to apply adhesive to the areas of the membrane which will later be seamed. Allow adhesive to dry until it is tacky. Touch adhesive with finger. If it is still wet, wait a few more minutes. Try to avoid any thick areas or puddles of adhesive.
5. Roll the adhesive-coated membrane back onto the deck where adhesive has also been applied. Work slowly and evenly to reduce wrinkles. Use a push broom to sweep over the membrane. This will ensure proper adhesion. *Repeat this procedure until all of the membrane is secure.
SEAMING WITH TAPE
1. Overlap the two membranes to be seamed 3". Using a crayon, mark along the edge of the top sheet.
2. Fold the top sheet back about 3". Clean the seam area on both sheets with recommended cleaner. Then apply tape primer to both seam areas.
3. Apply one side of 3" Double Sided Tape along the line marked in crayon. Press the tape in to ensure adhesion. The best method is to use a roller.
4. Fold the top sheet of membrane back into place with paper backing still on the seam tape. Slowly remove the paper allowing the two sheets to seam together. Roll seam area again to completely secure the two sheets together.
Optional: Apply a bead of caulk to the edges of the seam.
INSTALLATION OF TERMINATION BAR
Some applications will require that the membrane go from a flat surface to a 90° angle up an adjoining surface. To secure the membrane in this situation, it is recommended to use a termination bar. When adhering to the vertical wall leave about 1/2" unglued. Apply a bead of caulk between the membrane and the wall at this point. Now you are ready to fasten the term bar. When terminating on wood, screws may be used to fasten the bar. If terminating into concrete, you must drill holes and secure bar with anchors. After bar is in place, trim any excess membrane left above the bar. Now that the membrane is flush with the top of the bar, apply a bead of caulk along the top of the termination to finish the job (Note: In corners it is recommended to cut the bar, rather than bend it.)
FAQ
What does EPDM mean?
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer
Is there a warranty on EPDM?
Yes, black EPDM carries a 20 year warranty on membrane only against weatherability and factory defects. White on black EPDM carries a 10 year warranty on membrane only against weatherability and factory defects. In no event shall flatroofsolutions.com be responsible for any labor cost of removing or replacing of the membrane. Warranty excludes chalking.
Can EPDM be bonded directly over asphalt, tar, shingles, asphalt rolled roofing, or felt paper?
No, the oils in petroleum based products will cause EPDM to swell and fail. EPDM should be bonded over 5/8 plywood, 5/8 OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board with a fiberglass backing.
Can I install EPDM membrane directly over an existing roof?
You can installEPDM membrane over an existing roof only if a new layer of 5/8 plywood, 5/8 OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board with a fiberglass backing is used as a barrier to protect the EPDM.
Can I bond EPDM membrane directly over plywood or OSB board surfaces ?
The plywood or OSB board should be sanded to eliminate sharp edges, thoroughly cleaned, dust free, and dry.
What is the temperature range for applying latex (water based) bonding adhesive?
Applying latex bonding adhesive requires an air temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above when applied. Air temperature should remain above 50 degrees for at least 48 hours after application to allow the adhesive to set up. Latex bonding adhesive should be stored at 50 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the temperature range for applying neoprene (solvent based) bonding adhesive?
Ambient air temperature should be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or above for at least 24 hours after application. High humidity will cause adhesion problems. Never apply neoprene bonding adhesive is wet or humid conditions.
What is the coverage rate on neoprene (solvent based) bonding adhesive?
For application on plywood, OSB, polyisocyanurate board, brick, masonry, or concrete: 75 sq ft per gallon. For application on a smooth metal surface: 100 sq ft per gallon.
What is the coverage rate on latex (water based) bonding adhesive?
For application on plywood, OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board: 125 150 sq ft per gallon.
What EPDM thickness should I use?
40 or 45 mil EPDM is fine for most applications. However, thicker 60 or 90 mil EPDM might be preferred in applications where puncture resistance is important. For example, roofs located in an area where tree limbs might fall.
Other than the EPDM, what else will I need for installation?
You will need bonding adhesive, paint roller, utility knife or scissors, push broom, and we strongly recommend gloves and eye protection.
What roof slope is recommended where EPDM is installed?
For good roof drainage, we recommend 1/4 per foot.
Is EPDM available in different colors?
Roof-Top EPDM is available in black and white on black. Black EPDM is very resistant to UV and ozone and has excellent sustainability and life. White on black EPDM is cooler and more energy efficient but has a shorter life than black EPDM. White on black EPDM will chalk over time.