How to Carry Out a Temporary Repair on EPDM
At Rubber Flat Roof, we have a range of EPDM rubber roof repair products to help you make any minor repairs to your flat roof.
If installed properly and maintained effectively, EPDM flat roof membranes can last for up to 50 years. However, this durability will not be achieved if the rubber roof membrane is not installed properly from the outset. Various problems such as small tears and holes could develop over time, and you might also find yourself needing to do temporary repairs if your roof is damaged by falling debris, vandalism or extreme weather conditions.
It is important that you feel confident in carrying out these temporary repairs, and if you are at all unsure, we would always recommend consulting a professional roofer for advice. These repairs are only temporary and will help your roof hold up for those extra few days or weeks while you wait for a professional.
Emergency DIY repair:
If the hole or tear is very small and the primary aim is to make sure that the roof is fully waterproof as quickly as possible, you can apply a thin layer of lap sealant to the area such Rubberall Lap Caulk or SX Siroflex MS Polymer. This is all you will need to ensure that the roof is still waterproof and the sealant won’t be difficult for a professional to take off during a repair down the line.
Lap Caulk - Rubber Flat Roof
SX Siroflex MS Polymer - Rubber Flat RoofsMore durable DIY repair:
For a longer-lasting fix, you’ll need to be fairly confident in carrying out DIY repairs. For this repair, you’ll need to buy:
1. Clean the membrane with Membrane Cleaner and leave until it is completely dry.
Membrane Cleaner - Rubber Flat Roof2. Prime the area with Seam Tape Primer using the Scrub Pad at least 10.16cms in all directions from puncture. This will help it stick better.
Seam Tape Primer - Rubber Flat Roof3. After the primer has flashed off, cut a piece of Cover Strip with Tape 7.62 cms larger than the puncture and round corners. Remove backing and place over the puncture, from the centre onward, making sure that any air is pushed out from under the patch.
Cover Tape - Rubber Flat Roof4. Roll with a hand roller.
5. Optional - apply lap sealant around the edges of the flashing as a precautionary measure.
Remember that when using chemical products, you should wear protective clothing and ask someone to watch over you whilst you work. For more safety information have a look at our guest post about working on EPDM flat roofs.
Rubber Flat Roof offer three different types of flashing tape, either 6”, 9”, or 12”, each of premium quality. Please get in touch if you need any help selecting your EPDM rubber roof repair kit.
