We’re wrapping up our commercial roofing systems series with a focus on Firestone offerings (previous posts covered commercial roofing systems from Carlisle SynTec and Johns Manville). Today, we’re taking a closer look at Firestone EPDM membrane roofing, their benchmark commercial roofing product. The Firestone website states their RubberGard™ EPDM system has “dominated the single-ply roofing market” since going to market over 40 years ago. Keep reading to learn more about the company legacy and the many options within this product line.
Company History
Though Firestone dates back to 1900 in Akron, Ohio, founded by American industrialist Harvey Firestone, they launched their first commercial roofing product in 1980 (RubberGard™ EPDM). Their first commercial roofing plant opened in 1983 in Prescott, Arkansas. Today, Firestone Building Products is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee with plants and warehouses throughout the United States. Their commitment to the environment means working towards reaching their goal of “using 100% sustainable materials in all products by 2050.”
EPDM Basics and Benefits
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) membrane roofing is known in the roofing industry for the design versatility and superior waterproofing protection it offers. The EPDM Roofing Association describes this type of roofing as an “appealing choice of the low-slope commercial roofing industry for over 40 years.” It performs well in both new construction and replacement roofing. As for the benefits of EPDM roofing systems, here are a few covered on the Firestone website:
- Flexibility – able to cover any roof
- Durability
- Versatility – from commercial offices to government warehouses, hospitals and schools
- Built in UV resistance
- Wind uplift resistance
- Energy savings – RubberGard™ EPDM may reduce costs up to 25% when compared with other types of commercial roofing over a 30-year period
- Reflectivity thanks to their Ecowhite™ EPDM
- Long-lasting performance in a wide variety of climates
- Pre-taped products reduce install time and labor costs
- Reinforced RubberGard™ Max protects against roof tears and punctures and resists damage from wind forces
Installation and Options
Our full-service commercial roofing department is able to handle a wide range of roofing projects (any size and complexity). After the initial contact, we move through our design solution phase, into production, and through our structured close out procedures. We are here to ensure the finished product exceeds your expectations and would love to bring your vision into view.
Application Methods
Methods vary by EPDM type, but application that is 4.6x faster is a reality with their Fullforce™ EPDM applied across the entire surface (no seam tape or adhesives needed). Their
RubberGard™ EPDM can be fully adhered, ballasted or mechanically attached.
Products and Accessories
- Fullforce™ EPDM
- RubberGard™ EPDM Platinum
- RubberGard™ EPDM PT Membranes
- RubberGard™ Max
- RubberGard™ EPDM
- Ecowhite™ EPDM
- Ecowhite™ EPDM
- RubberGard™ R.M.A.
- Quickseam™ Accessories
- RubberGard™ EPDM Adhesives and Sealants
Make sure you partner with the best roofing company in your area. Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Charleston, SC, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in St. Simons, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Athens, GA. You can contact us today to discuss your EPDM membrane roofing needs at 1-855-BONEDRY.
