Improper Installation in EPDM Roofing and Its Long-Term Consequences

Work With the Best Roofing Contractors in Central Texas

Improper Installation in EPDM Roofing and Its Long-Term Consequences

Quality is at the heart of our Austin roofing company in every project we take on. Contact our experienced Central Texas roofers for a same-day, pressure-free inspection. Call 512-375-3654 to book your free inspection.

If you need a new roof installed, LOA is the roofing company to call! Our roofing experts are known for providing quality workmanship at a fair price. If you own a house or business in Central Texas you can't afford to work with another roofer.

Find out how much roof replacement will cost in Austin, Texas and the surrounding areas.

Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection

One of the many advantages of EPDM roofs is that the installation process isn't as time-consuming compared to other roofing systems. But just because it's easy to install doesn't mean every roofer knows how to get it installed correctly.

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a popular roofing material for flat roofs. It's referred to as a rubber roof because the membrane is a synthetic rubber. Another name for EPDM is ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, which means that the material contains three monomers: ethylene, propylene and diene. The presence of diene is what differentiates EPDM from EPM roofing and makes it a superior product in terms of heat resistance and longevity.

EPDM roofing membranes are single ply, meaning that it's a large sheet of roofing material that's installed as a single layer. It can make installation easier, but it also means there's only one layer of protection. So if the EPDM membrane isn't installed correctly, it can have serious long-term consequences.

Are you looking to install or replace an EPDM roof?

Contact the EPDM Experts at LOA to Schedule a Free Roof Inspection and Estimate!

The Long-Term Consequences From Improper Installation of EPDM Roofing

Proper installation is absolutely necessary with EPDM roofing because there's no room for error with single ply materials. Poor installation techniques may not be apparent right away, but when it is discovered there may already be serious problems to fix.

Poor Drainage That Causes Water Pooling

EPDM is used on flat roofs and low slope roofs because of its water resistance. The EDPM rubber material can repel water well, but you could still run into drainage issues if the roofing isn't installed properly.

When there are drainage issues it usually comes down to an improper slope or the drainage system is inadequate. An improper slope is a serious problem that requires timely repairs or you'll continue to run into issues that go beyond drainage. Water will pool on the roof surface and degrade the roofing materials, which only makes matters worse because the material will then be less heat and UV resistant.

Fixing the slope of the roof is often a major project. Typically, a full roof replacement is needed to correct the issue and get the slope right.

Improving the drainage system is usually easier to rectify by adding more drains strategically. If you need to manage water runoff, adding parapet walls could be beneficial. You may also want to install gutter covers to prevent clogs and reduce the amount of ongoing maintenance that's needed to ensure proper drainage.
Incorrect Materials That Don't Last as Long Because of Local Environmental Factors

EPDM material needs to be selected based on several factors, including the local environment. Material properties like thickness and color can have a huge impact on performance and longevity.

If the wrong material is installed it can significantly shorten the lifespan and require roof replacement much sooner than expected. Along the way the roof's performance will also be subpar since it won't protect against heat, rain and UV exposure as well.

The best bet is to go with white EPDM roofing that's thicker. It will reflect more UV rays and be more resistant to tearing and punctures.
Improper Flashing Installation That Leads to Water Infiltration

Like other types of roofing, EPDM roofing systems include flashing. It's used to protect against water penetration at weak points in the roof, such as where the roofing butts up against the structure. Flashing is also added to valleys, around penetration points, around HVAC units and the edges of the roof.

When flashing isn't properly installed it usually leads to leaks that can weaken the structural integrity of the entire roof system if it goes unaddressed. Common problems related to EPDM flashing include installing the wrong type of flashing and flashing that is too short.
Poor Adhesion That Leads to Seam Issues

Proper adhesion is a must with EPDM roofing since fully adhered is the most common installation method. When the adhesion is lacking there will be seam separation and membrane movement that causes a whole lot of other issues. Poor adhesion is one of the biggest installation issues associated with EPDM. It's often a result of:
- Inadequate surface preparation – EPDM won't adhere properly to a dirty or wet surface. For proper adhesion, the roof surface must be completely clean and dry after the old roofing material is removed.
- Using the wrong adhesive – EPDM rubber requires specific adhesives that create secure bonding. Using the wrong type leads to a weak bond that eventually fails.
- Not using enough pressure for adhesion – After applying adhesive and placing the EPDM membrane, pressure must be applied using a roller or soft brush broom, with a hand roller used around corners and penetrations. Insufficient or poorly timed pressure can result in poor adhesion and air bubbles.
- Failing to use seam tape or liquid sealant – After the EPDM membrane is adhered, seams must be sealed with seam tape or liquid sealant. Skipping this step compromises the integrity of the roofing system.

It's important to work with a roofing team that specializes in the roofing material you intend to replace or install since each option has its own unique process and considerations. LOA is one of the best roofers in the Austin roofing industry for replacing and installing flat roofs. If your property is located in Central Texas you can call us at 512-375-3654 to schedule a free roof inspection and estimate!

We're One of the Highest Rated
Roofers in Austin for a Reason

At LOA, we believe success is defined by customer satisfaction. We're proud to say we have some of the happiest clients in the roofing industry! You can find hundreds of 5-star reviews like the ones below online.

"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

— Brian McFarlin, 5-Star Google Review

"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

— Mike A., 5-Star Google Review

LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

"Worked with Zac and his team. Zac did an outstanding job working with the insurance company to ensure all damage was covered. Roof and gutters installed each were on time and all work was top of the line. This is a company that really does put the customer first. With out question I would recommend loa construction and roofing."

— Tony Smith, 5-Star Google Review

From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment in your home.

Request an Inspection

Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.