I have to fix my EPDM roof and need some advice on choosing an adhesive that will really work this time. The initial application was over a gently sloping (1/24) metal roof and it began to detach after a couple years. The original adhesive was water base contact cement recommended by the membrane supplier. I re-glued some spots with solvent based contact cement but after a year or so saw the same results. This was something of a mystery as I had used the same epdm and glue before elsewhere with excellent results. Looking at the fine print on the solvent based product, I saw the reason: “not for use on copper”.
The short solution would be to find a better adhesive that would still stick even with the old contact adhesive still there. It seems there ought to be something that would stick by virtue of staying really tacky its whole life. Any thoughts on what would work here without a total do-over?
Replies
YOur question is akin to asking a professional painter: " What kind of quality paint would you suggest that will perfom well over a really crappy paint or poorly prepared substrate".
I image that's why you're not readliy getting the magical (and easy) solution you're probably looking for.
BTW, I do not believe metal roofing (of any kind) is manufacturer's recommended or approved substrate for EPDM roofing membrane. That's probaby the genisis of your problem.
I do not have any recommendations. Sounds like you or your roofer (hope to god it wasnt a roofer) cut corners to save a few $. I guess your issue is at the seams?
this still is a little confusing because if the seams are lapped properly and sealed with lap seal you would get a TPO effect if the epdm is not adhering to the copper.
I do not have any suggestions on adhesives. you will more than likely be climbing a ladder every year or so to constantly mess with it until you get fed up and rip it up and do it properly.
where is it coming un done?
Hmmm
Can you explain the "TPO effect" your are referring to in your post?
most applications i have done have been ballasted, this is what i meant.
Wow. Not seeing the relationship of a ballasted membrane roof with the OP whatsoever. Not seeing the "TPO effect" either. Please elaborate.
ok let me spell it out as best i can then.
In a ballasted application the membrane is laid over the roof and the only sections that are adhered/mechanically fastened are the edges.
then the roof is covered (mainly river rock)
My reference to the original question mentioning a tpo effect, was aparently assuming to much. I assumed that my comment would be understood, i assumed i didnt have to make sure that everyone reading the thread would be satified with the response, and assumed I was replying to the guy asking the question and not you.
Where I live and work, it is common practice to see a "ballasted" tpo roof. I say ballasted because that it the basic style of installation; however, it is not by defenition ballasted because it is just lose laid over the roof and not river rock.
Maybe you should tell us what "tpo" stands for.
And tell us what you had for breakfast this morning.
TPO material is no more inherently associated with a ballasted roof than EPDM. The original post stated nothing about a ballasted roof application. Rather, the roof in question is not an EPDM manufacturer's recommended installation and is missing an approved underlayment. That's most likely the problem. Howover, your inital post inferes (IMO) that perimeter fastening w/o ballast is okay because, hey, its a "TPO" effect and it shouldn't be be a problem because at least the seams should remain bonded. I don't buy that inference--even after your clarification. In fact, I believe coining a meaningless phrase like "TPO effect" does a diservice to TPO material in general and misinforms folks about TPO roof installations. That's my concern--and that's why I questioned your post. I have a right to do so. I also have the right to express a concern whether I am the O.P, or not. Conversly, you retain the right to ignore it. Either way, I never lose any sleep over it.
BTW, I'm not specifically worried about Dan or Sapwood being misinformed. That's a hopelessly perpetual issue. They both feed from the same bowl of tainted ceral.
No one is implying that TPO is more commonly associated witha ballasted application. Not sure why you think thats what I was saying.
The guy who started the thread pointed out that there was not an adequate underlayment, even that he chose the wrong adhesive, no one is arguing this.
Your are right on one thing, it was your opinion of the comment.
My comment to elsofar was that he was up the creek (in a more polite manner).
I then went to mention that I wasnt understanding his issue completely, an in a gentler manner pointed out that if nothing else his seams if sealed properly (even is he used the adhesive not made to adhere to copper) would give him the TPO effect (simplified, assuming he doesnt do this for a living)
Dont see how my comment infered or implied any of what you suggest.
mark122 wrote:
No one is implying that TPO is more commonly associated witha ballasted application.
Really?
Your words, exactly: "I say ballasted because that it the basic style of installation" Mark122