EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing stands out as a favored option for flat and low-slope roofs, thanks to its remarkable durability, flexibility, and exceptional resistance to weathering.
At Roofing Solutions, we’ve created an in-depth guide explaining the process of replacing EPDM roofing. We hope this guide gives you peace of mind that Roofing Solutions will perform the highest quality EPDM replacement!
Here is our guide to replacing EPDM roofing:
1. Assessment: Evaluate the condition of the existing EPDM roof to determine if replacement is necessary. Look for signs of damage, deterioration, or membrane failure.
2. Safety Measures: Prioritize safety by using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and non-slip footwear. If working at heights, use fall protection gear.
1. EPDM Roofing Material: Purchase EPDM roofing membrane sheets of the appropriate thickness and size for your project.
2. Adhesives and Sealants: Acquire EPDM roofing adhesive, seam tape, and sealant recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Tools: Gather tools including a utility knife, measuring tape, chalk line, roofing nails or screws, screw gun, seam roller, and a heat gun (if heat welding is required).
1. Remove Fixtures: If applicable, remove any fixtures or equipment attached to the roof, such as vents or HVAC units.
2. Detach Old EPDM Roofing: Carefully detach the old EPDM roofing membrane from the roof deck. Use a utility knife to cut through the seams and remove the roofing in sections. Be cautious not to damage the underlying structure.
3. Clean the Surface: After removing the old roofing, clean the roof deck to remove any remaining adhesive, debris, or dirt.
1. Measure and Plan: Measure the roof area accurately to determine the quantity and size of EPDM roofing membrane sheets needed. Plan the layout to minimize waste and ensure proper drainage.
2. Prepare Substrate: Clean the roof deck thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and any existing roofing material. Repair any damaged areas and ensure the substrate is dry and smooth.
3. Apply Adhesive: Apply EPDM roofing adhesive to the clean substrate using a trowel or roller. Spread the adhesive evenly across the surface, ensuring full coverage.
4. Install Roofing Membrane:
a. Roll out the EPDM roofing membrane sheets onto the adhesive, starting from one edge of the roof and working towards the other
b. Ensure the membrane is positioned accurately and smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
c. Overlap the edges of adjacent sheets according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically 2-3 inches for seams.
d. Use a seam roller to press down on the seams and ensure a tight seal.
e. If heat welding is required for seam sealing, use a heat gun to carefully heat and weld the seams together.
5. Secure Edges and Seams:
a. Secure the edges of the roofing membrane using roofing nails or screws along the perimeter of the roof.
b. Apply EPDM roofing sealant along the edges and seams to further reinforce the waterproofing.
1. Install flashing: put flashing around roof penetrations such as vents, chimneys, and skylights to prevent water infiltration.
2. Seal around flashing: ensure that areas around flashing is sealed and other penetrations using EPDM roofing sealant.
1. Inspection: Inspect the installed EPDM roofing for any visible defects, loose seams, or areas that may require additional sealing.
2. Cleanup: Clean up any debris or waste materials from the roof and surrounding areas.
If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the replacement process or if the roof is complex, consider consulting with a professional roofing contractor.
Professional roofing contractors have the expertise and experience to ensure the EPDM roofing is replaced correctly, meets industry standards, and is done affordably.
At RSI, we have extensive knowledge and experience using EPDM membranes. Reach out to us at (434) 432-4602 or fill out this form so that we can help you with your EPDM needs.
Carlisle's Perfection Award is presented to roofing applicator's with roof installation warranty claims that rank in the top 5% of all US and Canada. This shows the awarded applicators are providing exceptional service, and the installed roofs rarely are filed for a claim, ensuring customers they are working with a top-of-the line roofing company.
Carlisle's Perfection Council chooses the most prestigious and highly rated roofing applicators to serve on an advisory board, which provides support roofing installers across the nation. This ensures applicator's are installing the highest quality roofing materials.
The Excellence in Single-Ply (ESP) award is deemed as one of the most prestigious awards in the roofing industry, assuring customers they are working with the most qualified and expert roofers.
The Centurion Applicator award is presented to a roofing company that has achieved 100 'perfect 10' roof installs, meaning that an inspector gave a perfect score of '10' applying new roof systems.