Welcome to another blog post in our roof repair series. Previously, we covered your TPO roof repair in Tampa. Now let us start with another highly popular roofing material used for flat roofs and commercial properties: EPDM.

Ethylene propylene diene monomer, or simply EPDM, is one of the most popular single-ply roofing systems for flat roofs. EPDM is strong, lasts longer than most materials, and has exceptional weather-resistant capabilities.

But, keep in mind Tampa is a city known for harsh weather conditions, and even roofs as stable as EPDM can falter. In this blog post, we will go over some of the common types of damage and how you can proceed with EPDM roof repair.

Assessing The Roof Damage

It’s important to keep an eye out for telltale signs like visible tears, cracks, or areas that are uneven. These aren’t just cosmetic issues, they’re red flags that your EPDM roof needs your attention.

Why A Swift Assessment Matters

You should never put roof repairs off for too long. Ignoring these issues could turn a minor inconvenience into a major headache. Water infiltration, heat loss, and escalated repair costs could be lurking around the corner. Swift action can save you money and maintain your building’s cozy atmosphere.

Common Roof Problems & How to Repair Your EPDM Roof

#1 EPDM Roof Leaks

Let’s start with an issue most flat roof owners face at least once: EPDM roof leaks.

Water infiltration can lead to significant damage and costly repairs inside your business. Leaks can originate from various sources, including damaged seams, punctures, or even aging EPDM material.

Using EPDM Repair Materials:

If you identify the source of the leak, clean the area thoroughly and use EPDM repair materials. EPDM patches, adhesives, and sealants are designed to create a watertight seal and restore the integrity of the membrane.

Professional Assistance:

If you cannot find the source of the leak or the damage is extensive, consider seeking help from a professional roofer. They have the expertise and tools to locate and fix leaks efficiently.

#2 Ponding Water

When water starts pooling on your roof, trouble isn’t far behind. Those seemingly harmless puddles can gradually transform into damaging leaks and points of stress over time. But the solution is fairly straightforward.

Tackling Ponding Water: Improving Drainage and Redirecting Water

To remedy a ponding issue, you should ensure your roof’s drainage systems are operating at their best. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to clear out any debris that might be stuck in your gutters and downspouts. You can also consider introducing gentle slopes on areas of the flat roof to direct water towards the drains.

#3 Tears And Punctures On The EPDM Roof’s Surface

Your roof stands as the fearless protector against the elements, taking the full brunt of nature’s forces. Though EPDM is known for being extremely puncture-resistant, it can still develop over time. Tears in the membrane result from fallen branches, sharp debris, foot traffic, or severe weather, like hailstorms.

Patching Small Tears and Punctures

When it comes to roof punctures, there’s a simple method to fix them. Just like applying a Band-Aid to a minor cut, EPDM patch kits and adhesives are used to seal and cover punctures. These kits are conveniently accessible and provide everything needed to seal up tiny punctures and tears. However, it might be best to call a professional, as they have years of experience patching EPDM roofs.

#4 Blisters Or Bubbles On The Roof

If you find that your EPDM roofing system is not smooth and leveled, it is most likely due to bubbles that have formed under your single-ply roofing membrane. These blisters form because there’s air or moisture trapped under the top layer of your EPDM roof.

How To Repair Blisters:

Out of a list of issues that can be difficult to repair yourself, fixing these bumps is actually kind of simple. Here’s how to repair EPDM roofing bubbles:

Pop the Blister:

Carefully cut the bump open to release trapped air or moisture.

Patch It Up:

After letting out the air or moisture, use a roof sealant or patch for EPDM roofs to cover up the bump. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for a perfect seal. Call a contractor if this becomes a regular occurrence.

Keep in mind that blisters and bubbles often indicate there is moisture trapped in your flat roofing system, which can lead to further damage if left unchecked. While fixing the bubbles is straightforward, contacting a roofing company will ensure there are no other underlying issues.

#5 Issues Related To Weathering

As time goes by, relentless UV rays coupled with unpredictable and severe weather can take a toll on your EPDM roof. Their effects become particularly noticeable on areas of the roof that sit in the sun.

Applying UV-Protective Coatings

To shield your roof from the sun’s harmful effects, consider applying specialized UV-protective EPDM roof coatings. The coatings protect your roof, helping it stay strong and durable while also maintaining its appearance. Adding this extra layer of defense ensures that your EPDM roof can face the sun’s rays and any type of weather without losing its shine or effectiveness.

#6 Loose Edges Or Roof Seams

Winds can be relentless, and they might get under your roof’s edges, causing sections to loosen. This can expose the layers underneath your roof to potential damage.

Re-Adhering Loose Edges And Seams

Using EPDM adhesive, carefully lift the loose section, apply adhesive underneath, and firmly press it down. If larger sections of the membrane are loose, consider contacting a professional roofing contractor.

#7 Your Roof Is Not Properly Installed

When your roof is not installed properly, you set yourself up for more problems in the future. If the people constructing it don’t do the job carefully, the whole thing can fall apart. From proper ventilation to creating an airtight seal with the EPDM membrane, every section holds equal importance.

When your roof is not installed properly, you set yourself up for more problems in the future. If the people constructing it don’t do the job carefully, the whole thing can fall apart. From proper ventilation to creating an airtight seal with the EPDM membrane, every section holds equal importance.

How To Ensure A Proper Installation

If your EPDM roof was not installed correctly in the first place, there’s not much you can do other than replace the entire system. But you can ensure that you do not make the same mistakes twice. Hire a professional roofing contractor who has years of experience, good references, and positive reviews from previous customers.

If you are looking for a roofing contractor for EPDM roof repair, check out our blog post: Top 10 Roofing Companies In Tampa, FL

Your One-Stop Shop For EPDM Roof Repair

While this guide equips you with valuable DIY insights, it’s important to acknowledge that calling a professional often leads to the best results rather than tackling these challenges yourself.

This is where we come in. SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors is a premier roofing company serving Tampa. Our team is composed of skilled and seasoned roofing professionals who possess comprehensive expertise in EPDM roof repair. Whether the challenge involves tackling ponding water, mending tears, resolving blisters, or skillfully applying protective coatings, we stand prepared to guarantee a successful outcome.

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TPO vs. EPDM Roofing Materials: Which Is Best For Your Property In 2023?

The Ultimate Guide To EPDM Roof Repair: Common Issues And Solutions