AT A GLANCE

• Cost: $
• Lifespan: 10-20 years
• Color Options: Black or white
• Composition: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
• Advantages: Lightweight. Low maintenance. High UV and ozone resistance. White membrane is highly reflective and Energy Star Certified.
• Disadvantages: Shrinkage. Less resistance to punctures. Non-welding seams. Black membrane is non-reflective. Does not perform well with ponding water.

Rubber roof membranes are affordable, low maintenance options for commercial roofs. EFDM is available in 45mil, 60mil, or 90mil thicknesses. Reinforced membranes, which provide a polyester mat between two plies of EPDM, offer enhanced puncture resistance.

INSTALLING EPDM ROOFING

EPDM can be loosely laid, fully adhered, or mechanically attached: 

• Loose Laid: Ballast, such as river rock or pavers, are used to hold the membrane in place.
• Fully Adhered: The membrane is glued in place using commercial grade adhesives rolled on both the backside of the membrane and the substrate.
• Mechanically Attached: Screws and plates are used to hold the membrane in place. This approach is recommended because it prevents water migration under the membrane in case of a puncture.

Today, rubber membranes are available in a range of sizes and installed in a way to reduce the number of seams and provide a professional looking appearance.