JB building and maintenance specialise in carrying out EPDM single ply flat roofing installations. We are a Rubber4Roofs certified contractor and as such can offer a 20 year manufacturers backed guarantee with every installation.
What is EPDM
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer which is basically a rubber membrane and high quality flat roofing material with a life expectancy of 50 years and therefore will significantly outlast traditional bituminous felt flat roofing installations. The material is typically a greyish black colour and supplied in rolls. EPDM roofing was first laid in the 1960s in the USA by CarlisleTM Syntec. Impressively showcasing the material’s long-lasting abilities, the original EPDM roofing installations are still protecting the roofs today.
EPDM roof covering can be installed in a single piece which eliminates the many joins felt roofs have. Complex roof shapes may have to be installed in multiple pieces. Multiple pieces are overlapped and securely joined with a special joining tape, which when installed correctly will be completely water tight. The rubber membrane is supplied in 2 thicknesses of 1.2mm and 1.5mm. The 1.2mm thickness is perfect for most installations such a garage roofs, outbuildings and extensions.
Advantages over traditional felt roofs
EPDM rubber for your flat roof has many advantages over bitumen based felt.
- Life expectancy of 50 years
- Virtually maintenance free
- In most instances can be fitted in a single piece eliminating joins
- UV stable, so will not rot and blister
- Sustainable and eco-friendly roofing system
- Attractive appearance
- Permanently flexible
- Resists acids present in rain water
- No shrinkage or dimensional changes over a temperature range from -40 to +120 degrees centigrade
- Suitable for flat roof and low pitch roofing installations
- Flame free installation
Installation process
EPDM is typically fitted over OSB3 roof boards. All bitumen felt should be removed before fitting the rubber, alternatively the original roof could be over boarded with OSB3 boards although this is not viable in all circumstances. EPDM rubber is adhered to the roof boards with a water based deck adhesive and a perimeter strip around the roof is adhered with solvent based contact adhesive. All roof edges are finished with an appropriate UPVC trim.
Warm Deck Roof Designs for EPDM
The warm deck roof design is the modern method for flat roof construction and is preferred wherever this option is possible. So called because the insulating layer is located above the roof rafters and between the structural supports, a warm deck roof results in a temperature for the roof and loft area that is consistent with the rest of the property. In a cold deck roof construction, the insulation is laid between the ceiling joists and over the ceiling. This results in the roof and loft area being colder than the rest of the property. Previously, the cold deck method of flat roof construction was favoured. However, with changes in how people live and how properties are utilised, this has now changed.
We are able to undertake EPDM roof installation of any size, including lining Finlock gutters, garage flat roofs, extension flat roofs and warm deck flat roofs.
Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
JB Building and Maintenance undertake EPDM roofing work throughout the West Midlands, Coventry, Warwickshire and all surrounding areas including Warwick, Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Stratford Upon Avon, Henley in Arden and Southam.