Consumer Information | Roof system types | Thermoset membranes
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Material and system description
Thermoset membranes incorporate principal polymers that are chemically cross linked or vulcanized. Membranes that are vulcanized also may be referred to as "cured." One characteristic of true thermoset polymers is once they are cured, they only can be bonded to simliar materials with adhesives.
There are five common subcategories of thermoset roof membranes:
- Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
- Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSPE)
- Epichlorohydrin (ECH)
- Neoprene (CR)
- Polyisobutylene (PIB)
The most common thermoset roof membrane is EPDM. EPDM principally is composed of two compounds, ethylene and propylene, that are derived from oil and natural gas. The following are some characteristics of EPDM roof membranes:
- Sheet widths range from 7.5 feet to 50 feet wide.
- Sheets are typically 45 mils and 60 mils thick.
- Seams are sealed using liquid adhesives or special formulated tape.
- The membranes commonly are black, but white is available.
EPDM roof membranes can be installed fully adhered, mechanically attached (using batten bars) or ballasted. Most EPDM membranes do not receive surfacings.
Example of a fully adhered EPDM roof system
Example of a ballasted EPDM roof system
EPDM and
polymer-modified bitumen membranes often are confused by consumers because of colloquialisms used by roofing contractors. Contractors commonly call both of these membranes "rubber" roofs. However, in most cases, when contractors specify rubber roofs, they are referring to EPDM.
Material standards
NRCA does not make any recommendations about which TS product or manufacturer to use; however, NRCA does recommend that TS products meet standards established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
- ASTM D4637, "Standard Specification for Vulcanized Rubber Sheet Used in Single Ply Roof Membrane"
Warranties
When purchasing a new roof system, there will be two warranties to consider. First, there will be the manufacturer's warranty. In general, these warranties cover defects in the manufacture of the roof membrane. Please read
NRCA's consumer advisory bulletin addressing roofing warranties for more information. Once the project is complete, be sure the contractor provides you with a certificate for your records.
Second, the roofing contractor will provide you with a warranty covering his workmanship. Typically, this will cover installation and related issues. The warranty should contain what items are covered and what will void them. Many contractors offer one year or two years of coverage; however, there is no industry standard.
Construction details
Below are links to some common thermoset construction details.
