For more than 40 years, the EPDM membrane has occupied a prominent place in the building materials market. This is a waterproofing material that has been widely used by buyers. We can say that it is tested by time.
EPDM membrane. What is it?
It is a waterproofing system, which is made on the basis of rubber. Its composition includes ethylene-propylene-diene monomer. To increase strength, an additional reinforcement is carried out with a polyester mesh. This makes it possible to use the material in any regions, even with a cold climate.
A separate group are EPDM membranes made of composite materials. In this case, they consist of three layers:
- dense rubber;
- reinforcing mesh;
- polymer bitumen.
Characteristics of the EPDM membrane and its advantages
EPDM membrane is a high quality vulcanized film made from a certain type of EPDM rubber. Raw materials undergo strict control for compliance with European standards.
High-quality raw materials, certain additives, modern production technologies - all this is an EPDM membrane. Its characteristics give it a number of advantages over other materials:
- low cost;
- strength;
- resistance to aging, durability (lifetime is half a century);
- resistance to temperature extremes;
- withstands the effects of weather factors, ultraviolet and ozone;
- perfectly preserved, being for a long time in direct sunlight.
- fire resistance;
- maintains elasticity over a wide temperature range (from minus 40 to plus 110 degrees);
- light weight;
- does not react with bituminous materials;
- coefficient of stretching reaches 400% with full recovery in the future;
- environmentally friendly material, does not emit toxic substances throughout the entire period of operation;
- can be used on roofs of various types;
- the size of the membrane is adjusted to the size of the roof; for this, several rolls are connected by vulcanization (the seams have the properties of the main material, the size of one sheet can reach 1200 m 2) ;
- the roof becomes waterproof and remains clean;
- There is no need to lay geotextiles between the EPDM membrane and the thermal insulation layer.
Membrane disadvantages
In addition to a number of advantages, the EPDM membrane also has its drawbacks. The most important of them is that the installation is carried out using glue. The resulting connecting seam reduces the strength of the material.
There are no other serious flaws in the material.
Types and manufacturers of EPDM membranes
There are various types of EPDM membranes from several manufacturers on the building materials market. All of them differ from each other in their characteristics (price, quality). The main ones are:
1. Firestone. Includes one layer, but reinforced and fireproof. The composition includes EPDM, carbon black, technical oil and additives, vulcanizing agents. Rolls are 15 m wide and can reach 61 m in length.
The Firestone EPDM membrane has several advantages:
- resistant to ozone and ultraviolet radiation;
- has high wear resistance;
- remains flexible even in severe frost (up to minus 6 degrees);
- withstands any temperature changes;
- environmentally friendly;
- it is possible to lengthen the material.
2.Giscolene. This is a single layer vulcanized material, which includes propylene, diene and ethylene. It is produced with a width of 1.5-20 m, the thickness of the material is only 0.5-4 mm. It is used on all types of roofs due to its advantages:
- does not pass water and air;
- soundproofing material ;
- It is resistant to heat, wear, temperature extremes and chemicals.
3. "Elastokrov". A relatively new material, similar in its characteristics to the Firestone membrane. Material thickness - 1.4 mm. Width - 3-4.5 m. Length - 50 meters.
4. "Carlisle." Rolls of this material have a length of 30.5-61 m. The width is 6.1-18.3 meters, and the thickness is 1.5-2.3 mm. EPDM "Carlyle" membrane is made from synthetic fiber and differs from other types in its characteristics. The difference lies in the fact that gluing the membrane is permissible not only with glue, but also with the use of mastic, sealant or self-adhesive tape.
Application of EPDM membrane
The EPDM membrane is used in places where it is necessary to quickly, but at the same time, qualitatively waterproof the large areas. The main application is roof waterproofing. In addition, the EPDM membrane is used in underground structures, tunnels, canals, and reservoirs.
An EPDM membrane is often used for a reservoir. EPDM film is completely safe for its inhabitants. And its elasticity, strength and a number of other advantages make this type of material indispensable. Therefore, the EPDM membrane for the pond is used much more often than other films, gaining leadership positions.
Mounting Methods
The EPDM membrane is mounted quite simply. But it’s better to turn to specialists. There are three installation methods:
- The heat-welded method, which is the most common. With this method, the edges are welded with a special apparatus. In hard-to-reach places (corners, pipe outlets, holes), manual welding is used.
- The ballast method is most often used for a flat roof (where the roof slope does not exceed 15 degrees), since it is the most economical.
- The membrane is laid out on the roof and fastens around the perimeter, as well as at the junction of other objects. Fastens with ballast, so as not to be carried away by the wind. To do this, use crushed stone, pebbles, paving slabs and so on.
- The mechanical method is recommended for geometrically complex roofs. The EPDM membrane is mounted on a base of wood, reinforced concrete or corrugated board using special glue. A perimeter rail is laid out around the perimeter, which has a layer of sealant. With an interval of 20 cm, telescopic fasteners are installed. If the angle of the roof is more than 10 degrees, use an additional disk holder.
Membrane Repair Methods
In some cases, it may be necessary to repair the coating. In such situations, professionals recommend completely replacing the waterproofing in damaged areas. And here everything will depend on the type of roofing "cake" and the method of its installation. If the waterproofing partially changes, then this must be done in all places where it is possible to remove the roofing material.
Due to its remarkable characteristics and lack of flaws, the EPDM membrane is an excellent option for roofing. Perhaps, over time, it will become the main roofing material. The use of this waterproofing material will provide high quality work performed for a long period of time. This is tested in practice by a large number of buyers.