Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) single-ply roofing systems is the most popular material for both new and reroof low-slope roofing applications. It is a high-performance synthetic rubber compound that provides outstanding weathering characteristics in climates worldwide, most commonly used in single-ply roofing. It is also called Single Ply Membrane and it is one of the common types of low-slope roofing. It's been in use on roofs in the Canada since the 1960’s. When properly applied, it has a life cycle of 15 to 25 years. It is great for preventing leaks and is often installed for roofs that have problems with weathering, failing joints, and inflexibility. It is relatively inexpensive as well as simple to install as compared to BUR. Compared to conventional built-up roofs, it is also much cleaner and doesn’t emit the odours and fumes that are often associated with built up roofing systems. Vulcanized EPDM is the most common type of EPDM roofing system. Non-vulcanized EPDM is typically used for flashing purposes.

Typical EPDM Roof Assembly Layers

There are several methods of applying EPDM:

    1.    Fully adhered EPDM uses water-based or solvent-based adhesives to adhere the EPDM rubber to the substrate.

    2.    Mechanically fastened EPDM is attached to the substrate by manufacturer-approved mechanical methodology.

Adhered EPDM roofing system

     3.    Loose-laid membranes are secured only at the perimeters and any penetrations. A ballast of round river rock or concrete pavers is used to hold the materials in place. The river rock is usually installed at a rate of 1000 - 1200 pounds per square (100 square feet of roofing surface) and the pavers typically weigh 20-pounds per square foot. Structural integrity is of paramount importance with a loose-laid roof system. The seams are sealed using either an adhesive or a splicing tape.

Ballasted EPDM roofing system

EPDM Benefits

   Highly dependable, economically beneficial, high durability, and high efficiency makes EPDM an attractive option to any building owner looking to a commercial, industrial and institutional roofing contractor for a new roof or an upgrade to the existing roofing system. Additionally, an EPDM roof will often come with long warranty, low maintenance requirements, low installation labour costs, and generally garner rather easy code approvals. For regions subject to potentially catastrophic weather experiences, such as hurricanes - EPDM roofs have very high resistance, making them quite practical for those who live in those areas.

EPDM advantages

   EPDM roofs are highly resistant to weathering, ozone, and surface damage. It is flexible in cold weather and has high fire and heat resistance. You can't go wrong choosing EPDM for low-slope and flat roofs that need to be waterproof and durable against the Canadian weather.


   Our Main Office is located in Toronto, Ontario.