Roof shrinkage is no easy matter to deal with. It is most common on EPDM or modified bitumen roofs and is usually caused by aging of the material, poor installation or excessive UV exposure. Thanks to technological advancements and improvements to EPDM roofs, though, shrinkage has diminished significantly.
Roof shrinkage often results in the pulling of flashings at curbs, penetrations and walls. This leads to splits and cracks that allow moisture in, which usually results in leaks. Innovative Roofing & Siding, Inc., a roofing company you can trust, shows how to prevent and fix it.
Why They Shrink
Many different factors can cause EPDM shrinkage. Most have something to do with substrate deterioration. They also include poor quality materials, poor design, improper installation and poor workmanship. Modified bitumen sheets should not be set in ambient temperatures of 40 degrees or below. It doesn’t matter what adhesion application method you use. The issue is with the membrane sheets.
Prevention Is the Key
To prevent shrinkage, use high-quality EPDM membrane mixtures only. Even with the best workmanship, poor quality EPDM membrane will shrink. Only choose an experienced roofing contractor like Innovative Roofing & Siding, Inc. We can spot any potential problems that may arise from the design of the membrane. Always remember to invest in a good foundation or substrate.
Fixing It
To fix EPDM shrinkage, keep the following in mind. Remove the entire flashing system. Clean and prime the adjacent EPDM membrane material to make a durable tie-in. Then replace the flashing with EPDM membrane material, not neoprene. If the surface of the bitumen membrane is too weathered, apply asphalt primer and allow it to dry. Cut a patch of like material eight inches larger around the area for repair. Install the patch according to roofer and manufacturer’s recommendation.
Searching for “trusted roofer near me” online? Know that you can count on Innovative Roofing & Siding, Inc. to offer quality repair and replacement services for EPDM and modified bitumen roofs. Call us at (865) 444-6070 for a free estimate! We serve clients in Knoxville and the surrounding communities in Tennessee.