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Frequently Asked Questions about EPDM Roofing  

Q     What is EPDM?  

A   EPDM is a man made Synthetic rubber its full name is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. It is a remarkable material that,

• Can stretch with up to 300% elongation, which easily accommodates building movement.

• Will not tear, split or crack.

• Is unaffected by ozone and UV radiation.

• Is manufactured in large sheet sizes from 3.05 to 12.20 meters wide and up to 30.5 meters long.  

Q     Are EPDM synthetic rubber roofing membranes new?  

 A    No. The first synthetic rubber membranes, developed in America, were laid in the 1960's and are still protecting flat roofs some 40 years later.

 Q    Will I get a substantial Guarantee?

 A    The rubber membrane has a material guarantee of twenty years.

 Q     How long will an EPDM roof last for?  

A    The first EPDM roofs were installed in the 1960s and are still doing the intended job now. The expected life is 40 - 50 years.

 Q    How proven is EPDM?  

 A    Over Two Billion square meters of EPDM have been installed world wide from the glaring sun of the Middle East to the Arctic conditions of Alaska. Over One hundred Million square meters will be installed this year.

 Q     Is EPDM synthetic rubber membrane suitable for my flat roof?  

 A    EPDM rubber is suitable for virtually all flat and low sloping roofs.

 Q   What does EPDM look like?  

 A    It has a smooth natural slate grey finish.

 Q    Can I walk on it?  

 A     Yes, it is designed for maintenance access. For heavy usage such as roof patio areas it can be overlaid with a variety of durable finishes, paving slabs, timber or plastic decking etc.

 Q    Is EPDM expensive?  

 A    No, despite its considerable technical advantages it compares well with other quality roofing systems and because of its long life span will work out to be much cheaper over time.

  Q    Is EPDM environmentally friendly?  

  A    EPDM is an inert material with limited environmental impact during manufacture and use of the product.

  Q     Do you replace decking/fascia boards or guttering?

  A    Although it is not usually necessary with EPDM it is left to individual judgment.

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