Epdm roofing is leagues ahead of some older traditional flat roof material such as felt for example.
Epdm flat roof problems.
Flat roofs are known as being problematic with many suffering leaks.
Epdm roof membrane shrinkage while epdm roofs are easy to install the installation must be carried out by someone who is trained and experienced in installing epdm roofing.
Rubber roofing epdm single ply membranes is the most common flat roofing system in new england ma ct nh ri etc and the rest of us flat roofing marker.
However in my own experience the problems with leaking flat roofs are usually as a result of either poor workmanship installing the roof membrane poor maintenance by the building owner or as a result of age.
Seams failure leaks.
You will want to make sure all seams are sealed and any cracks that appear are quickly fixed though this may not be a major problem as most rubber roofs are uv resistant.
Rubber roofing is suitable for extreme conditions giving you one of the most durable and reliable roofs available that typically lasts between 30 50 years.
Epdm roofs are fully adhered or as many call it glued down.
Another common entry for epdm rubber roofing problems is puddles of water forming on your roof.
Three most common problems with rubber roofs is improper installation shrinkage and the seams.
The main reason for such popularity of rubber roofs is the lower initial price tag.
Otherwise it is all to easy to fall victim to problems caused by incorrect installation such as shrinkage for example.
Your flat roof will be level when it s first installed but houses can actually shift over time which can lead to a change in the roof s structure.
This roof is leaking in 7 different places.
Here is a great example of a professional flat roof installation the membrane glued directly to asphalt shingles.
Most people refer to a flat roof as a rubber roof.
The system is not attached mechanically.
As a result of this water may start to pool on your flat roof.
Epdm material should never come in contact with asphalt based products and it should be installed over insulation or fiber recovery board.
Some common reasons for shrinkage are.