May 2021

EPDM Focus
RUBBER STAMPED: A BUSY AND
BRIGHT FUTURE FOR EPDM...
Durable, cost-effective and easy-to-install, it is no surprise that an increasing number of
roofers are turning to EPDM as a solution for flat roofs. Below, George King, Divisional
Managing Director at SIG Roofing, takes a closer look at the benefits of EPDM – and
considers how its popularity could be set to grow and grow.
An established roofing membrane solution
in large-scale commercial applications for
some time, Ethylene Propylene Diene
Monomer (EPDM) is fast becoming recognised as
an attractive option for domestic properties, too.
Indeed, while flat roofs used to be the sole
preserve of garage conversions and single storey
extensions, they are an increasingly popular
choice for new build domestic properties – and
that’s a trend we expect to grow further still
across the next few years.
The reasons behind EPDM’s surging popularity
are clear. Cost-effective and durable, EPDM
delivers a fantastic return on investment for a
property, with some systems accredited by the
BBA and affording an expected lifespan of 35
years. This means EPDM can be specified and
installed with utmost confidence – giving
homeowners total peace of mind.
Beyond durability, EPDM has been especially
designed to deliver ultimate flexibility. This is an
important consideration as it means it can bend
with normal levels of structural movement;
something that can lead to breakages or tears in
other systems. What’s more, the UV stability of
EPDM means it maintains flexibility for longer –
even when other systems have aged and become
brittle.
Correct installation
As more and more homeowners switch-on to the
benefits of EPDM, this undoubtedly creates
exciting new market opportunities for roofing
contractors. But for those benefits to be fully
realised, it’s absolutely essential to ensure that
the EPDM is installed correctly.
“As more and
more
homeowners
switch-on to the
benefits of EPDM, this
undoubtedly creates
exciting new market
opportunities for
roofing contractors”
That’s why SIG Roofing has created a series of
‘how-to’ video guides for our EPDM range; arming
contractors with all of the information they need
to ensure the solution is correctly installed. The
comprehensive guides can be found at
www.fix-r.co.uk, and provide step-by-step
support in installing EPDM; from the laying of the
initial membrane to using the correct perimeter
trims and kerb systems.
Alongside this, we have made prolonged
investment into our own EPDM market offering –
FIX-R EPDM and FIX-R Reinforced Single Ply. Our
FIX-R EPDM roofing membranes, which both have
BBA Approval, are flexible, aesthetically pleasing
and manufactured to last – and can be installed
with confidence for 35 years. Requiring no heat or
Left: George King, SIG Roofing; Above, left:
FIX-R EPDM & FIX-R Single Ply; Installation.
flames during installation, FIX-R
EPDM significantly reduces risk to
contractors while driving down on-site
insurance premiums.
Our Reinforced Single Ply is also quick and easy
to install, reducing associated installation costs
across the project. Furthermore, the product is
supplied in roll form, making it the ideal solution
for larger scale or commercial projects, while
FIX-R EPDM, which can be cut to size for a
single-sheet application, is ideal for smaller
roofing jobs.
As with the material itself, the popularity of EPDM
looks set to last. As the country gears up for a
post-lockdown boom in new-build housing – as
outlined in the Prime Minister’s ‘build, build,
build’ address last year – demand for EPDM
looks set to go through the (flat) roof. With our
robust range and step-by-step installation
guides, we are seeking to arm contractors with all
the tools they need to take advantage of these
upcoming opportunities.
Contact SIG Roofing
www.sigroofing.co.uk
@SIGRoofing
38 TC MAY 2021