EPDM is a material that is designed for use on flat roofs and low-slope roofs that need a durable, long-lasting protective solution. This material comes in both black and white finishes, and comes in both sheet form and as a liquid rubber product. There are a variety of applications for this type of roofing, including in commercial buildings, for RVs, and even in some residential situations.
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer, for those who are interested. It is derived from oil and natural gas, among other elements, and is one of the most effective, long-lasting roofing solutions available for the applications where it is best suited. It offers a variety of protective features for the building and the roof itself, including helping to combat damage from sunlight and harmful UV rays, water damage, and temperature fluctuations.
EPDM Sheeting
EPDM rubber roof sheeting comes in a variety of different widths and is usually sold in a roll. Available widths range from 7.5 feet to 50 feet, and you can also choose between 45 and 60 mils for thickness. This sheeting can also be installed in a variety of ways, including:
- Fully-adhered
- Ballasted
- Mechanically attached
Regardless of the method used, the seams will be sealed using either liquid adhesive products or a special EPDM seam tape that creates a durable, flexible water-tight seal. Sheeting is still used in many commercial roofing applications, but a number of people are switching to a liquid EPDM product for their next roofing installation because of its many benefits.
Liquid EPDM Roofing
Liquid rubber roofing products are preferred by many RV owners today because they offer a simple, literally seamless way to apply a protective coating to the roof of their RV. Instead of having to worry about seam seals or using a special tape, the liquid EPDM is either rolled on or sprayed on like paint, and then left to dry. It will fill in the cracks and worn spots and create a smooth, clean finish in no time at all.
Liquid roofing materials are also popular because they are typically less labor-intensive to install. Rather than having to roll out sheeting, adhere it, and then apply a top coat to seal the roof, you can simply spray the liquid EPDM product and let it cure to create a water-tight, reflective finish that will keep your RV in great shape for a long time to come.
Is All Liquid Rubber EPDM?
There are a number of different liquid rubber roofing materials on the market today, including various formulas. Many are EPDM, or EPDM based, but there are also some that have a completely different base. Some are silicone roofing products, for example, while others might be composed of a different type of rubber compound.
If you are set on using EPDM for your next RV or commercial roofing project, that’s a great choice. If, however, you simply want to look into the options available for liquid rubber roofing, EPDM is but one choice. Make sure that you remember that when you are looking for the best products to repair or replace your rubber roof.
EPDM is Still the Favorite
There have been a number of attempts to make a better product or to create a different type of roofing solution that is just as effective as this one, but that either has better pricing or that offers more features. However, EPDM remains the favorite, and for a good reason. It is durable, flexible, easy to apply, and creates a sleek, seamless finished result on any roof that will last for years to come.
