How to Avoid Unbranded EPDM Blindsiding the Construction Industry

One of the most effective ways to be certain a roof is winterproof is to ensure it is installed correctly and with high quality materials in the first instance, to prevent issues arising later. A current challenge affecting the sector is the rise in unbranded EPDM products – an appealing, cost-effective alternative to recognisable brands. However, the lack of certification and required guarantee that comes with these unbranded products is failing installers and their customers, as managing director of PermaRoof, Adrian Buttress discusses.

With summer fading into the distance, thoughts need to turn to the unpredictable weather experienced in the winter, and how it will impact roofs. No matter the size or location, all roofs can be at risk of faulting over winter with one of the biggest reasons due to subpar products.

Currently, the sector is experiencing a marked increase in unbranded EPDM products being used instead of proven and tested equivalents. This is in part linked to the ongoing stock shortages caused by Brexit, exacerbated by Covid-19, and the decline in lorry driver numbers able to transport the available products.

With limited access to products, installers and therefore, customers are turning to lower quality versions, leaving them to fall at the first hurdle. Keeping in mind the additional challenges that the cold weather and frost can bring, it’s vitally important to check the chosen products have the right performance, traceability and manufacturer backing to provide the confidence they can withstand the weather.

EPDM synthetic rubber is used as a membrane for flat roofs and provides a high-quality and durable waterproof solution, with an expected lifespan of more than 50 years. Effective waterproofing is essential to the longevity of a roof and is arguably the make-or-break decision on whether it will survive snow, rain, and the impact of storms.

Unbranded EPDM products can be a risk to waterproofing and experience the damaging effects of weathering as the products have not always undergone rigorous testing like their branded counterparts. In some cases, unbranded products do not offer certifications guaranteeing performance either; this means customers can’t be assured that their roof will last for 15, let alone 50 years.

Added to the lack of reliability, which is a particular concern in winter, many unbranded EPDM products do not offer reliable warranties or aftercare to prove the quality that they advertise. This means that while products appear cheaper upfront if the product falters or fails, it can be an expensive mistake when tracing the company responsible, which is often impossible. This can cost installers, and their customers, time and money, not to mention additional stress.

Using an unbranded EPDM product can not only cause damage to a roof but will damage the customer’s pocket and the reputation of the roofing contractor – as they are left with the burden of paying to rectify it.

There are several ways to know how to spot the difference between an unproven, unbranded version and a reliable branded version of an EPDM product.

Suppliers should provide a BBA certificate to ensure the correct construction product certificate is in place, this will also track accountability. Furthermore, to guarantee longevity, products should include a declaration of performance to outline their expected life expectancy and waterproofness, as well as an environmental product declaration to make sure it adheres to environmental standards.

Other considerations to be aware of in high quality EPDM products, such as Firestone RubberCover, is the standard of its manufacture. A reliable EPDM should be ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standard, meaning it meets customer needs within statutory requirements.

Knowing the difference between good and bad quality products is often down to knowing to look for the right guarantees and warranties, but also asking for confirmation from suppliers.  Any reputable supplier or merchant should have the right knowledge and information on certifications and standards and be willing and able to share this with customers.

While installing the right products in the first instance is always the best option, there are ways to get poor quality roofing projects rectified and up to standard ahead of winter.

Professionals who are faced with reviewing the status of a poor roof should suggest a full system solution. This could involve a liquid-applied waterproof layer, a full refit or a completely bespoke solution.

Once the solution is agreed, selecting the right high-quality materials is a must. Good installers will have reputable qualifications and have completed regular CPD courses to ensure their knowledge is up to date. PermaRoof, has developed the PermaRoof Registered Installer (PRI) scheme to help reassure customers of credentials. Through this scheme contractors are provided with training, which is levelled dependant on the course they’ve taken and previous experience, and a card to prove their credentials as part of the specification process.

Ensuring roofing work is completed to meet top standards, with the most reliable products available does not have to be complex. As the seasons change and more roofs will be tested by the colder weather, remember to take no chances and choose the right product with the right credentials, which can make all the difference and will ensure the project is futureproofed.

PermaGroup has established links with some of the biggest names in our industry thanks to our reputation of excellence. Read more about becoming a supplier or stockist here.