Ask the Experts: What Does EPDM Stand For?

‘What does EPDM stand for?’ is a commonly asked question at PermaRoof UK. Although acceptably known throughout the industry as EPDM, this rubber membrane is officially called ‘Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer’ after the primary compounds used in its manufacture.

How is EPDM made?

EPDM navigates the traditional issues of flat roofing materials thanks to its synthetic composition. The process of manufacturing EPDM has very few stages and requires only a small amount of energy input. This is one of the ways that this product earns its environmentally friendly credentials, in addition to being fully recyclable at the end of its service life.

In addition to the key ingredients, there are other products included within the formulation of EPDM which give added benefits to the polymer. Fillers such as calcium carbonate are used to provide resistance against weather conditions. They also improve the optical and mechanical properties and help to increase the elasticity level of the final product.

Additives are also used to protect against degradation, such as through exposure to UV radiation, humidity and extremes of temperature, including very hot or very cold.

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What is EPDM used for?

EPDM membrane is a high performance material commonly used in domestic and commercial roofing applications. It can also be utilised in car manufacture for seals and hoses and is a common element in non-slip playground coatings (in granulate form).

As a roofing membrane, EPDM outperforms many other materials and is typically installed in a single sheet. This is because the nature of the synthetic rubber enables the creation of larger sheets than previously possible in more traditional materials. PermaRoof UK custom-cut sheets of EPDM up to 15.4m x 30m.

The benefits of EPDM membrane

Exceptional lifespan

The properties and manufacture of EPDM give it an unmatched lifespan compared to other types of roofing membrane. With an expected service life of more than 50 years, proven in the field in a wide range of climates, EPDM outperforms traditional membranes and felt by far.

PermaRoof UK provide a lifetime guarantee on the EPDM in our shed roof kits and up to 30-years warranty on EPDM membrane installed on your domestic flat roofing projects by an approved installer. We stock Firestone RubberCover EPDM for all your domestic installations, SealEco fleeceback EPDM for green roofs and Firestone RubberGard is the membrane of choice in our commercial division.

Flexible and durable

EPDM has elastomeric properties, which means it remains flexible and durable when installed and can elongate up to 300%.

Easy to handle

EPDM membrane is strong and durable, yet light and easy to handle on a wide range of projects. It can be cut with good scissors and requires few tools, including paint roller, penny roller and soft broom, to install.

Straightforward to install, ideal for DIY roofing projects

EPDM is fast and straightforward to install, ideal for DIY roof replacement and highly popular within this sector. It is applied using cold adhesives and cures quickly to deliver 100% waterproofing.

Available in roofing kits

PermaRoof UK stock a wide range of roofing kits and we include Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane in every domestic kit. We provide a range of off-the-shelf, standard roof kits including membrane, adhesive, sealant and trim where appropriate. We stock both standard (1.14mm) and premium (1.52mm) grades of EPDM and can tailor your roof kit to your exact requirements.

Cost effective flat roofing

Designed to provide 100% waterproofing over its exceptional service life expectancy, EPDM rubber delivers cost efficiency for the long term. It is hard wearing, durable and hard to damage, yet easy to repair if damage occurs.

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