How Easily Do EPDM Roofs Puncture?

Chaffee Roofing customers know all about the durability of EPDM, the cost of the product, and how easy it is to install. A common question from our customers is how easily EPDM roofs puncture. It has to be among the top 5 questions customers ask us about EPDM roofing.

Our answer is simple

Like any single-ply product, EPDM is susceptible to puncture from direct impacts. Punctures from a screwdriver or sharp object leave a hole in the membrane. However, EPDM is very durable for regular foot traffic, roof maintenance, roof unit maintenance, etc. In fact, some manufacturers are starting to offer puncture-proof guarantees on some EPDM roof systems!

Since the question comes up a lot, we've compiled our thoughts on EPDM and flat tires in a blog post. Let's take a closer look at EPDM and how to solve the problem of punctures. Learn more here about these roofing articles.

How to pierce EPDM?

EPDM roofs are also known as rubber roofs. Rubber can burst, as every cyclist or car driver knows. If you know the dangers, you can avoid them.

Falling branches during a storm can impale the EPDM and cause major damage. Workers on the roof can use a sharp tool such as a screwdriver, through the EPDM roof or even damage it by wearing the wrong footwear. EPDM also degrades when exposed to grease and chemicals, making the surface weak and prone to punctures. In some cases, fats and chemicals can even attack the EPDM membrane!

Despite these things, you can still enjoy the top benefits of EPDM roofing if you take steps to avoid a flat tire

Avoiding a flat tire on an EPDM roof

When driving, avoid broken glass, nails, and holes in the road. The same principle applies to EPDM roofs.

Installing the reinforced EPDM membrane instead of unreinforced EPDM is a big help. The added scrim reinforcement gives your roof extra protection not only from punctures but also from other types of storms and accidental damage. EPDM is available in thicknesses from 0.045 to 0.090 mm. By installing thicker and reinforced material, you add a lot of durability to the roof.

There are other, more practical ways to avoid a flat tire. Always use trained personnel when carrying out any work on your roof and have a policy on what to carry and do on the roof. An EPDM roof is not a place for parties or barbecues. Don't have a grease outlet or any acid products on the EPDM roof without a great protection system. Constant contact with droplets is harmful. It is also prudent to prune trees and shrubs near the building. This not only protects against storm damage but also brings more light into the building and saves on electricity costs. It also prevents drains from clogging.

One of the most important things when installing an EPDM roof is to only use a reputable company with highly qualified staff.

What to do in the event of a flat tire?

There are steps to take if you happen to get a flat tire on the EPDM roof. The first step is to act immediately. Be careful not to make a flat tire worse and do not allow water to enter the building. The long-term damage from a water leak can be expensive to repair.

Do not attempt to repair a flat tire yourself. While repairing an EPDM roof is easy to perform, it is only a job for a trained roofer. At Chaffee Roofing all of our staff are fully trained and will do an excellent repair job on your EPDM roof.