It is once again the time of year when construction crews and roofing companies are busy across the United States. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing is a popular option for commercial buildings. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a well-liked and rapidly expanding commercial roofing system.
EPDM and TPO roofing systems are both single-ply synthetic membranes that provide a protective layer to defend commercial roofs from environmental elements. Rubber roofing, or EPDM, is utilized in a variety of commercial contexts. This protective layer is also utilized in numerous other applications, including pond liners, platforms, and RVs.
EPDM roofing has been a tried-and-true method of protecting commercial roofs since the 1960s, but TPO roofing is rapidly gaining traction, despite the fact that both single-ply roofing systems offer protective roofing solutions.
Adhesives for Single-Ply Membrane Roofing Systems
Single-ply membrane roofing systems are not self-adhesive and must be firmly adhered to the metal roof. Before applying EPDM or TPO roofing membranes, proper preparation must be completed, such as removing all grime, debris, and rust from the roof and thoroughly cleaning the roof decking. Now available are innovative adhesive solutions that securely attach single-ply roofing membranes to metal roofs. By integrating a B-stage adhesive into metal roofing plates and pucks, roofing installers can rapidly bond the membrane to the roof via heat induction.
For effective installation, the roofing membrane should be installed when the temperature is at least 50°F and will remain above 50°F. Roofing membrane plates and pucks coated with a B-stage adhesive enable rapid membrane sealing without the need for mechanical fasteners. This can extend the life of the roof by preserving its structural integrity.
In order to provide long-lasting bonding solutions, adhesives for roofing systems must also possess certain characteristics and properties, such as resistance to heat, UV exposure, and lift.
Adhesive Solutions Extend the Service Life of Roofing
Universal Chemicals & Coatings, Inc., UNICHEM, offers adhesive solutions that extend the service life of single-ply membrane roofing systems. Learn how UNCIHEM reduced future expenses and costly claims for a manufacturer of roofing components in this Case Study. With the application of uniBOND B-stage adhesive to roofing hardware, UNICHEM was able to address this contractor’s problem with UV degradation.
Without adequate resistance to polymer degradation following installation, adhesives can oxidize and compromise adhesion performance. When this failure occurs, it can be costly and time-consuming to remove and reinstall the roofing membrane. UNICHEM is a prominent manufacturer of industrial adhesives, offering uniBOND bonding solutions to a variety of industries and markets.
UNICHEM provides custom coatings and uniBOND industrial adhesive solutions for a variety of markets and applications, including roofing and construction installations. We offer custom chemistry configurations, research and development, and testing to ensure that our products meet performance standards. Contact us for more information on our uniBOND adhesive solutions for EPDM or TPO single-ply roofing membranes.