Between You and the Sky: A Roofing Website

EPDM roofing, also known as rubberized asphalt, has been a popular choice for commercial buildings because of its durability and energy efficiency. However, this roof is not infallible and requires regular inspections to identify emerging problems. This article will focus on five of the most common EPDM roof problems and how commercial roofers can solve them. If you own or manage a building with EPDM roofing, keep reading to prevent damage and extend the life of your roof.

1. Exposed Adhesive

One of the most common problems with EPDM roofs is exposed adhesive. This happens when the adhesive that holds the membrane in place becomes exposed to sunlight and weathering, which causes it to break down and deteriorate. Commercial roofing contractors can fix this problem by applying a new adhesive layer to the affected area.

2. Cracked, Dented, and Pinholed EPDM Membrane

You'll first want to inspect the membrane for any cracks, dents, or pinholes. If you find any, you'll need to patch them up as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to contact a commercial roofing contractor who can patch the holes and seal the cracks for you. This problem should be fixed quickly to avoid leaks. 

3. Organic growth 

Organic growth is especially a problem for commercial flat roofs. Wind-blown debris dust and debris make a conducive breeding ground for mold, mildew, and fungi. It is compounded by water ponding, which accelerates this growth. 

Commercial roofing contractors can solve this problem by removing the organic growth with chemical agents, applying fungicides, and using an encapsulant to protect against future problems.

4. Membrane Shrinkage 

Over time, EPDM roofs can suffer from membrane shrinkage. This is caused by the breakdown of the UV inhibitors in the membrane, which leads to the material becoming brittle and less able to stretch. The good news is that commercial roofing contractors can fix this problem by applying a new UV-resistant coating to the membrane.

5. Blistering EPDM Membrane

Blistering of an EPDM membrane is one of the most common problems commercial roofing contractors see. Blisters form when water vapor gets trapped between the surface of the membrane and the substrate, causing the membrane to lift and form bubbles. 

While blisters are usually not a structural problem, they can lead to leaks if left unrepaired. A commercial roofing contractor can fix blisters by cutting out the damaged section of the membrane and patching it with a new piece.

If you have an EPDM roof, it's important to be aware of the most common problems. Knowing what to look for, you can catch issues early and prevent them from becoming major problems. Contact a commercial roofing contractor such as iHome Designs to schedule an inspection to assess your commercial roof's condition and catch problems early.