EPDM FAQs

What does EPDM mean?
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer

Is there a warranty on EPDM? 
Yes, black EPDM carries a 20 year warranty on membrane only against weatherability and factory defects. White on black EPDM carries a 10 year warranty on membrane only against weatherability and factory defects. In no event shall flatroofsolutions.com be responsible for any labor cost of removing or replacing of the membrane.
Warranty excludes chalking.

Can EPDM be bonded directly over asphalt, tar, shingles, asphalt rolled roofing, or felt paper?
No, the oils in petroleum based products will cause EPDM to swell and fail. EPDM should be bonded over 5/8” plywood, 5/8” OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board with a fiberglass backing.

Can I install Roof-Top® EPDM membrane directly over an existing roof?
You can install Roof-Top® EPDM membrane over an existing roof only if a new layer of 5/8” plywood, 5/8” OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board with a fiberglass backing is used as a barrier to protect the EPDM.

Can I bond Roof-Top® EPDM membrane directly over plywood or OSB board surfaces ?
The plywood or OSB board should be sanded to eliminate sharp edges, thoroughly cleaned, dust free, and dry.

What is the temperature range for applying latex (water based) bonding adhesive?
Applying latex bonding adhesive requires an air temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above when applied. Air temperature should remain above 50 degrees for at least 48 hours after application to allow the adhesive to set up. Latex bonding adhesive should be stored at 50 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the temperature range for applying neoprene (solvent based) bonding adhesive?
Ambient air temperature should be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or above for at least 24 hours after application. High humidity will cause adhesion problems. Never apply neoprene bonding adhesive is wet or humid conditions.

What is the coverage rate on neoprene (solvent based) bonding adhesive? 
For application on plywood, OSB, polyisocyanurate board, brick, masonry, or concrete: 75 sq ft per gallon. For application on a smooth metal surface: 100 sq ft per gallon.

What is the coverage rate on latex (water based) bonding adhesive?
For application on plywood, OSB board, or polyisocyanurate board: 125 – 150 sq ft per gallon.

What EPDM thickness should I use?
40 or 45 mil EPDM is fine for most applications. However, thicker 60 or 90 mil EPDM might be preferred in applications where puncture resistance is important. For example, roofs located in an area where tree limbs might fall.

Other than the EPDM, what else will I need for installation?
You will need bonding adhesive, paint roller, utility knife or scissors, push broom, and we strongly recommend gloves and eye protection.

What roof slope is recommended where EPDM is installed?
For good roof drainage, we recommend 1/4” per foot.

Is Roof-Top® EPDM available in different colors?

Roof-Top® EPDM is available in black and white on black. Black EPDM is very resistant to UV and ozone and has excellent sustainability and life. White on black EPDM is cooler and more energy efficient but has a shorter life than black EPDM. White on black EPDM will chalk over time.