EPDM Tutorials & Installation Guides

Practical guides to planning and installing your EPDM rubber roof.

Start with the steps below, then follow the technical instructions supplied with your membrane, adhesives and trim system. Application methods vary between products.

1. Measure your roof

Sketch the roof, marking drainage edges, walls, corners and any penetrations.
Record the maximum length and width. Measure upstand heights and edge returns separately.
Add the allowances required by your chosen system before ordering. Do not order solely from the horizontal roof area.
List trims, corners, outlets, adhesives and installation tools alongside the membrane.

Plan your materials with our Roof Kit Builder →

2. Prepare the roof deck

A sound roof starts below the membrane. Check the deck for movement, damage and trapped moisture. Repair defective areas and confirm that the proposed build-up is suitable before covering it.

Check drainage falls and outlet positions.
Remove projecting fixings and sharp debris.
Confirm compatibility of the deck, insulation facing and adhesive.

Arrange suitable access and edge protection before working at height. Use a competent roofer where access or detailing is beyond your experience.

3. Position the membrane

Dry-fit the sheet before opening adhesive. Check coverage around every edge and detail. Let it settle for the period specified in the membrane instructions. Keep it free of tension and protect it from sharp tools while working.

4. Choose and apply adhesives

Use the adhesive specified for each surface and part of the roof. Deck adhesive, contact adhesive and spray adhesive are not automatically interchangeable.

Check substrate suitability, weather limits and coverage on the product data sheet.
Work in manageable sections and use the specified applicator.
Follow the exact open-time or flash-off requirements before bringing surfaces together.
Apply the required pressure and inspect the bond as you proceed.

Keep solvent products away from ignition sources and provide the ventilation and protective equipment specified on their labels.

5. Finish edges, corners and upstands

Identify the drainage edge and raised perimeter before fitting trims. Use the matching system detail for each junction.

Gutter edges: keep the water path into the gutter unobstructed.
Raised edges: fit compatible kerb trims and joint components using the specified fixings and movement allowances.
Corners: a decorative corner cap does not replace the waterproof membrane detail beneath it.
Walls and pipes: use an approved termination or flashing detail. Avoid improvising with general-purpose sealant.

Confirm primer, tape, flashing and membrane compatibility before making seams or penetration details. Ask for the relevant system drawing if uncertain.

6. Final checks and maintenance

Inspect edges, terminations and penetrations.
Check gutters and outlets are clear.
Remove offcuts and tools without damaging the roof.
Allow the specified curing period before any inspection or use that could disturb the bond.
Inspect periodically and after severe weather; investigate damage promptly.

Need help with your roof?

Send us your roof measurements and photographs before ordering or starting an unfamiliar detail.

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These introductory tutorials support planning and do not replace the installation instructions for your supplied roofing system.