Although flat roofs remain a top choice for many commercial property owners, you should know that this type of roofing will require routine maintenance to prolong its longevity. The reason for this is that flat roofs tend to be vulnerable to water damage due to puddles. If you are not invested in enlisting commercial roofing repairs often, you may want to consider adding a protective layer on this type of roof in the form of EPDM.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is a type of rubber that is applied onto roofs to enhance their resistance to external factors that would cause extensive damage such as rain, snow, scorching temperatures, and so on. Keep reading for all you need to know about EPDM rubber for your commercial flat roofing.
Should EPDM rubber be installed on a newly installed roof?
A popular misconception that some commercial property owners have regarding EPDM rubber is that they will need to install a brand new roof to have this coating installed, but this is incorrect. The reality of the matter is that the EPDM can be applied on both old and new roofs. All the commercial roofers need to do is ensure that the surface of the roof is free of any contaminants or detritus that could get caught under the surface of the rubber.
Once the flat roof is cleaned, the commercial roofers can use chemical epoxies or mechanical fasteners to adhere the EPDM rubber onto the flat roof. After installation, the EPDM should be left untouched for a couple of days for it to cure.
Is EPDM rubber a durable material?
You could be thinking that installing EPDM rubber will only function as a stop-gap until your flat roof acquired damage, but you will be mistaken. In truth, in comparison to an array of roofing supplies such as shingles, concrete, and so on, EPDM rubber will offer your commercial building superior durability! In fact, you could be surprised to learn that EPDM rubber can last for several decades and, resultantly, will also prolong the lifespan of your flat roof.
Nevertheless, you should be cognizant of the fact that the EPDM rubber should be accorded routine maintenance in the form of cleaning so that debris does not collect on its surface. Moreover, you should also enlist an annual roofing inspection so that the professionals can assess the condition of the rubber. Overall, with the right upkeep, this protective layer should last for a long time.
For more information on commercial roofing, contact a specialist.
