Poor Adhesion of EPDM Membranes: What Causes It and How to Prevent It
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There are several ways to install EPDM roofing systems, but the fully adhered method is often the most commonly used installation process. With this method the synthetic rubber membrane is adhered directly to the roof deck using bonding adhesives and pressure.
Sounds simple, right? Well, there are actually a number of things that can go wrong during the installation of ethylene propylene diene monomer roofing material. The result of improper installation is poor adhesion that causes the EPDM seams to separate, the membrane to move and water to penetrate through. Suddenly, your rubber roof isn't so water resistant.
If you have an EPDM roof or plan to install an EPDM roofing system it's important to understand how this type of material should be handled and signs that poor adhesion may be a problem.
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Common Causes For Adhesive Failure in EPDM Roofing
EPDM rubber roofing is a high performance material when it's installed correctly. Failing to follow the proper processes and protocols can easily cause adhesive failure that compromises the integrity of the entire EPDM roofing system. Below are some of the most common causes for inadequate adhesion.
Failing to Properly Clean the Roof Deck
Good adhesion is impossible if you're trying to bond EPDM to an unclean surface. Even small dirt particles are enough to weaken the bond and cause issues.
EPDM Membrane is Adhered to a Wet Surface
Even if the roof deck is cleaned you can run into another problem during preparation - moisture. Trying to adhere the EPDM membrane to a surface that isn't completely dry will weaken the bonding adhesive.
And this isn't just a matter of waiting long enough for the roof to dry after it's cleaned. The roofer has to be mindful of environmental factors like high humidity and rain that can also be problematic. And if a primer is applied, it also needs to be completely dry before moving on to the adhesive application.
The Wrong Adhesive is Used
A strong adhesive bond is only possible if the right products are used. With EPDM roofing you can use:
- Solvent-Based Adhesives
- Water-Based Adhesives
- EPDM Contact Adhesive
Which option will work best depends on the EPDM material. It's always best to only use adhesives that the EPDM manufacturer recommends. Using anything else could lead to premature failure on a large scale.
Failure to Follow Up With Pressure
Adhering EPDM membrane requires more than the right adhesive application. Once the membrane is in place, pressure is then used to ensure it fully adheres and creates a lasting bond. Usually a special roller is used to apply pressure and ensure the roof surface is even. Once that is done a hand roller can be used around the penetration points and edges of the roof.
The timing also has to be right. Pressure has to be applied shortly after the membrane is put into place before the adhesive has a chance to fully cure.
There is Trapped Air Beneath the EPDM Membrane
Another reason you want to use a roller or brush to lock the EPDM membrane in place is because it helps remove air pockets that can hinder adhesion. If there's trapped air below the membrane it creates weak points with improper sealing.
The Wrong EPDM Material is Used
There are different types of EPDM materials and the one that is selected will directly impact the installation and roof's performance. The options include:
- Vulcanized (cured)
- Non-vulcanized (uncured)
- Reinforced
- Ballasted
Another key factor is the thickness of the EPDM membrane, which can range from 45 to 90 millimeters thick. Thicker EPDM membranes offer more protection but require a stronger bond.
The Installation Happened When the Weather Wasn't Ideal
As noted above, the weather comes into play when you're installing an EPDM roof. If the conditions aren't right you won't get a good seal. It's always best to hold off on installing EPDM roofing when there's excess moisture in the air, extreme heat or cold weather. Any of these can affect how well the adhesive works.
LOA is an experienced team of professional roofers that can ensure proper EPDM installation. We regularly work with EPDM roofing materials and understand the local factors that impact optimal performance and weather resistance. Property owners in Central Texas can call us at 512-375-3654 for a free roof inspection or to schedule EPDM services in Austin.
