(ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber polymer. It is manufactured in sheets and may be single-ply or reinforced with internal fabric. Over the years, EPDM roofing has developed into a complete commercial roofing system, with special adhesives, tapes, and hangers that simplify installation and increase performance.
WHY IS EPDM A GOOD CHOICE?
Superior Protection
Made of extremely stable polymers, EPDM roofing is UV and ozone resistant. It is able to withstand extreme temperature changes without breakdown..
Sustainability
The low life cycle of EPDM makes it one of the most sustainable commercial roofing choices available today. Installation and repair generate little waste, and with today’s improved installation techniques, the lifespan of an EPDM roof may exceed 40 years.
Roof systems are rising fast in popularity for a variety of reasons. Some advantages of a TPO Roofing System are:
Proven system that has been around for over 30 years.
Strongest seams available, which is typically the weakest point in a roof system
Environmentally friendly product (Energy Star, LEED)
Strong puncture resistance
Resistant against a variety of chemicals
White, Tan and Grey TPO roofs are much cooler than comparable black EPDM roof systems, which is beneficial to HVAC units and other rooftop equipment.
A TPO roof is heat welded together using computerized hot air equipment that reaches temperatures of around 1,000 degrees in the seams. For welding the seams on open areas, an automatic “robotic” welder is used that automatically sets the correct temperature, applies the perfect pressure, and sets the best speed to perfectly weld the two membrane sheets together. For smaller areas, like rooftop units and curbs, a hand-held heat welding gun is used, along with a rubber roller. These smaller detail areas rely heavily on the craftsmanship of the roofing mechanic to achieve the correct temperature, pressure and speed required for a perfect weld.
EPDM
Celebrating 20 years
Standing Seam
TPO
The Standing Seam metal roofs are very common to use on commercial buildings but are rapidly being accepted as high-end metal roofing systems for residential roofs. Like all metal roofs, they are highly reflective for energy considerations. They are very lightweight making them suitable for any roof structure. And, they offer a clean sleek appearance in a variety of suitable colors.
Standing Seam metal roofing consists of both the mechanical seamed and the snap-loc designed panels. The mechanical seamed panels are installed by placing a metal clip on one side of the panel that laps over the vertical edge. The clips are placed in uniformed successions and screwed to the roof deck. The next panel is placed over lapping the clipped edge and an identical series of clips are installed on its adjacent edge. A mechanical seamer is then placed on the overlapping side of the panel and made to fold the metal panel edges over together. They become firmly locked in place and affixed to the roof.
The snap-loc systems follow the same process except that instead of a mechanical seamer the over lapping edge is formed with bends that allow it to lock in place when snapped together. The seams on these systems are a bit broader in appearance than their slimmer counterparts, the mechanical seamed panels.
The color coatings that typically clad these panels are usually warranted for 20 years against color or cladding degradation. These type metal roofing systems are more expensive so it is important to make sure that the coatings are of the warranted type. Once installed these roofs should provide for a life of up to and exceeding 50 years as long as the surface coatings are not damaged by debris or abrasions..