Chris Page, product manager at SIG Roofing, examines the benefits of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) as a solution for flat roofs – and explores the opportunities it could represent for British roofers.
When Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) was originally used as a roofing membrane, its use in transforming flat roofing in large-scale applications was immediately obvious, but over the years it has become a hugely popular option for the domestic sector too.
From garage conversions, to single-storey extensions, the use of EPDM as a flat roof solution has been growing in popularity since the 1960s. Indeed, a quick walk through any residential street or housing estate in the UK will soon reveal how prevalent it now is on UK homes – and that trend is set to grow further still.
For homeowners, the benefits of EPDM rubber roofing are clear. More cost-effective than other solutions, it is also incredibly durable, with the British Board of Agrément (BBA) assessing some systems and providing certificates stating an anticipated service life in excess of 35 years.
EPDM is uniquely flexible, ensuring it can withstand normal structural movement that can damage many other flat roof systems. Due to its UV stability, it is able to maintain that flexibility, ensuring its durability when other systems have become brittle with age. This outstanding lifespan, coupled with the relatively low energy consumption during manufacture, and the ability to combine with green roofs and Solar PV systems mean EPDM should be seriously considered in a world where “Green Credentials” are such an important and emotive issue.
However, the benefits – longevity, aesthetic or otherwise – of any EPDM rubber roofing solution will only be realised via correct installation.
Market opportunity for roofers
With EPDM increasingly in vogue among homeowners, there is clearly a significant market opportunity for the roofers installing the product. That’s why, in support of contractors, SIG Roofing has made continued and significant investment in its own EPDM offering – FIX-R EPDM and FIX-R Fully Reinforced Single Ply. Our FIX-R EPDM roofing membranes, which are both BBA-approved, have a life expectancy in excess of 35 years, and provide unrivalled weatherability, flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, FIX-R EPDM membranes have been engineered to deliver ultimate peace of mind in terms of safety, with its heat and flame free installation, which can ultimately reduce contractors’ risk and help to lower on-site insurance costs.
For a contractor, the benefits of EPDM are clear. The FIX-R Fully Reinforced Single Ply, which although has a higher material cost, is quick and easy to install, lowering associated installation costs across the project. Furthermore, the product is supplied in roll form (1.52m wide x 12.2m long), so is particularly beneficial for larger roofing projects. In comparison, the FIX-R EPDM can be cut to size for a single-sheet application, making it the ideal solution for smaller roofing jobs.
In order to fully support UK roofers, SIG has created a series of video guides across our EPDM range to guarantee correct application of the project. As mentioned above, correct installation is absolutely key if the primary benefits of the project, such as longevity, weather endurance and elasticity, are realised. The comprehensive installation guides, which can be found at www.fix-r.co.uk, provides contractors with a step-by-step guide to installing FIX-R EPDM; from laying the initial membrane right through to the correct perimeter trims and kerb systems to use.
The popularity of EPDM looks to be as durable as the material itself, so we’re urging contractors to invest in their EPDM offering – and ensure they are well positioned to meet shifting market demands.
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