EPDM Waterproofing System | Durable Rubber Sheet Membrane for Roofs & Basements 

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Waterproofing is a high-performance synthetic rubber membrane designed to deliver seamless, flexible, and long-lasting waterproofing protection for roofs, basements, terraces, podiums, and water tanks. Made from elastomeric rubber sheets, the EPDM waterproofing membrane provides excellent resistance against UV radiation, ozone, heat, and chemical exposure, making it one of the most durable waterproofing materials for both exposed and submerged applications.

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Purpose & Key Functions 

The EPDM waterproofing system is engineered to: 

Provide 100% water proofing protection and prevent water leakage or ingress. 

Withstand thermal expansion, contraction, and structural movement without cracking. 

Offer a UV-resistant and weather-proof barrier for exposed roofs. 

Protect structural concrete from water penetration, freeze–thaw cycles, and chemical attack. 

Deliver a long service life with minimal maintenance. 

Working Principle of EPDM Waterproofing 

EPDM acts as a continuous elastic barrier that seals the surface completely: 

Seams are heat-welded or chemically bonded for watertight joints. 

The elastic nature of the membrane allows it to accommodate structural movement. 

When used with insulation boards or protection layers, EPDM offers combined waterproofing and thermal insulation benefits

Typical Properties of EPDM Membrane:

PropertySpecification
Tensile Strength8–10 MPa
Elongation at Break300–500%
Thickness1.2–2.5 mm
Service Life25–50 years
Temperature Range−45°C to +120°C

EPDM Waterproofing Application Process 

Surface Preparation 

  • Ensure concrete substrate is clean, dry, and smooth, free from dust or grease.
  • Repair cracks or honeycombs using polymer-modified mortar.
  • Provide proper slope (1:50 or 1:100) for effective drainage.
  •  Primer Application 

  • Apply EPDM primer using a brush or roller.
  • Allow it to dry (typically 30–60 minutes) before membrane installation.
  • Ensures strong adhesion between the substrate and membrane.
  • EPDM Sheet Installation 

  • Unroll EPDM sheets and allow them to relax for 30–60 minutes.
  • Fully Adhered Method: Apply adhesive and press sheet firmly to avoid air pockets.
  • Mechanically Fastened Method: Fix sheets with fasteners and plates at intervals.
  • Seam Treatment: Overlap 50–100 mm and bond using seam tape, adhesive, or hot-air welding.
  •  Detailing 

  • Reinforce corners, penetrations, drains, and pipe entries.
  • Use pre-formed corners and flashings in high-stress zones.
  • Protection Layer 

  • For exposed roofs: apply a protection board or reflective coating.
  • For ballasted roofs: place gravel, tiles, or pavers on top of the membrane.
  • Testing & Quality Verification 

  • Conduct a 24–48 hour water ponding test to ensure zero leakage.
  • Inspect seams, corners, and penetrations for perfect sealing.
  • Advantages of EPDM Waterproofing 

    Extremely durable (25–50-year service life) 

    Resistant to UV, ozone, heat, and chemicals 

    Highly flexible – bridges cracks and structural movement 

     Seamless waterproofing with welded or bonded joints

    Low maintenance and resistant to standing water

    Eco-friendly and recyclable material 

    Suitable for both exposed and submerged applications 

    Quality Checks & Testing 

    Verify surface preparation, primer adhesion, and sheet bonding. 

    Check seam strength and bonding integrity. 

    Perform water testing before handover. 

    Ensure protection or ballast layer does not damage the membrane. 

    Typical Applications 

    Flat roofs and terraces 

    Basements and underground structures 

    Podiums and green roofs 

    Roof gardens and landscaped podiums 

    Water tanks, reservoirs, and swimming pools

    Parking decks and walkways 

    Conclusion

    The EPDM Waterproofing System is a trusted, long-term waterproofing solution for modern buildings in the UAE and GCC region. Its superior flexibility, UV resistance, and durability make it ideal for both exposed and below-grade structures such as roofs, podiums, basements, and water tanks.
    Proper surface preparation, seam bonding, and detailing ensure a seamless, leak-free, and maintenance-free waterproofing system that stands the test of time.

    Reach Out Now

    Connect with our experts today and discover the best waterproofing and insulation solutions for your property in Dubai.

    Dubai Office Address

    Office B-71 Building El Shaye-4 Port Saeed, Dubai

    Info@ofixotech.com

    London Office Address

    85 GREAT PORTLAND STREET LONDON ENGLAND W1W 7LT

    Uk.sales@ofixotech.com

    Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

    EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Waterproofing is a high-performance system that uses a synthetic, elastomeric rubber sheet membrane to create a barrier against water ingress.

    EPDM is made from durable rubber sheets that offer excellent resistance against UV radiation, ozone, heat, and chemical exposure.

    Yes, EPDM offers superior resistance to UV radiation and weathering, making it one of the most durable waterproofing materials for exposed applications.

    EPDM is highly elastic, with an Elongation at Break of 300–500%. This allows it to easily withstand thermal expansion, contraction, and structural movement without compromising the seal.

    The service life of an EPDM membrane is typically 25 to 50 years, often outlasting many other waterproofing systems.

    The standard thickness of the EPDM membrane ranges from 1.2 mm to 2.5 mm, depending on the specific application requirements.

    Yes, its robust chemical and water resistance make it highly suitable for both exposed and permanently submerged applications, including water tanks and swimming pools.

    The most critical step is Surface Preparation. The concrete substrate must be clean, dry, smooth, and free from cracks or uneven surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion.

    Yes, due to its exceptional durability and resistance to standing water and weathering, EPDM is considered a low-maintenance waterproofing solution.

    When combined with insulation boards or protection layers, EPDM offers the combined benefits of waterproofing and improved thermal insulation.

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