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How to Install Classic Bond EPDM

Insulation, Membranes & Felts
how to
Classic Bond EPDM installed on an outbuilding.

Rubber roofs are excellent products for those looking to create a reliable protective across a flat-roofed structure. There are many benefits to them – they can be easily installed compared to other flat roof materials and can be applied with minimal hands on deck. They have been utilised for over half a century, and their popularity is showing no signs of slowing down.

There are several manufacturers of rubber roofs, but one of the most popular on the UK market are Classic Bond. An excellent brand that has produced a variety of roofing products and accessories, Classic Bond specialise in effective, dependable rubber roofing membranes.

But how are Classic Bond roofs installed? The installation of any roofing material can be a daunting task, especially for new homeowners and DIYers. EPDM roofing is relatively simple, but even so, there are many steps to follow, materials to collect, and precautions that will need to be taken before, during and after installation.

In this guide, we will break down the key points behind any Classic Bond roofing installation. Look at what you’ll need to prepare the roof, the products and accessories required for a complete installation and, of course, the installation itself. We will also look at other commonly asked questions, including whether you may need professional assistance.

Contents

What are the Benefits of a Classic Bond Roof?

There are several benefits to using Classic Bond over market alternatives. For one, they are an industry leader with several years of experience in the industry. They are an incredibly user-friendly brand, having created a complete range of membranes along with a host of accessories and tools to help you carry out a clean, straightforward installation.

Classic Bond also boasts phenomenal longevity in each of its EPDM sheet membranes, able to enjoy lifespans of up to 50 years with only basic care and attention provided. Inspections carried out a couple of times a year, coupled with quick replacement of any damaged components will easily provide this touted five-decade lifespan.

Classic Bond also looks great aesthetically. While rubber roofing isn’t especially known for its charm or character, this is undoubted a quality to look out for in a Classic Bond roof. Made from high-quality materials, these products are some of the most visually appealing on the market today.

Will I Require Help to Construct a Classic Bond Roof?

There are numerous factors to consider when it comes to planning Classic Bond roof installation. Of course, one of the most commonly thought-of questions is – will I need an expert to help carry out the installation for me? There are several different things you have to consider when looking to answer this.

The first is the size of your project. Typically, flat roofs aren’t that big. Most sit atop garages, summer houses or extensions, and thus shouldn’t need more than two or three hands at most. Someone with more experience could even complete a full extension flat roof installation by themselves.

Experience is the other key factor you will need to consider – how well do you know your DIY? If the installation of an EPDM roof is your very first project, you might want to think about at least consulting a professional for advice on how best to approach the situation, even if you don’t end up hiring them to help you.

There are plenty of professional builders and tradespeople who specialise in the application of flat roof materials. However, it is always important to do your research. Use reputable trade sites, compare reviews and prices, and always talk the project through with the individuals in question before commencing the work.

What Will I Need Before Starting the Installation of a Classic Bond Roof?

The following guide will assume that your structure has already been built and is simply awaiting the installation of your roofing material – in this case, Classic Bond EPDM. You will need to make sure that your structure is ready for this. For new builds, this means ensuring that all other building steps have been completed and for renovations, that any existing roofing materials (including accessories) have been removed.

What Will I Need to Install Classic Bond EPDM?

You will need several different products, tools and accessories when installing your Classic Bond. Some can be purchased as part of the Classic Bond range, while others will need to be sourced from other manufacturers or your own toolbox.

To install Classic Bond EPDM sheeting you will need:

Once you have everything you need, you can start installing your EPDM. Remember – you should have everything before starting, as many of the products (particularly the primers and adhesives) will need to be applied according to time limits and cannot be left while you wait for more tools or materials.

How do I Install the Classic Bond EPDM?

  1. Use your broom or dustpan and brush to remove any dust and debris on your roof space. If you are re-doing an existing roof, the previous roofing material must be completely removed. This goes for bitumen too – this material can tear and rot, so take care when handling.

  2. Ensure that the roof space is completely dry. If it has been raining recently, or the surface you plan to work on required a more intensive clean with water before you could start, you will need to wait until it is fully dried out before continuing.

  3. Ensure that your gutters are already installed – if they aren’t, install them now. Once you’re ready, add a drip batten wherever a gutter is present. The drip trim is made up of two separate pieces. Install the batten before installing the backplate, utilising the nails provided with the product.

  4. Using either an angle grinder or mortar chisel, form a joint ready for your wall trim flashing to be added if necessary.

  5. Add the rubber membrane to your roof, allowing it to lie for about 30 minutes. This will help the membrane to relax and soften out into the desired shape for application. After this, you’ll want to fold the membrane backwards halfway, which will expose half of the roof surface below.

  6. Using the roller, you’ll want to add your water-based deck adhesive. Apply this generously, though be sure to leave a 150mm gap where the perimeter edge of the membrane will lie. While the adhesive is still wet, roll the membrane back into place, leaving the adhesive-less edges still facing upward. Make sure it is flat and no bubbles or lumps on the surface are present.

    1. Sweep the membrane with your broom or dustpan and brush to make sure that it is as flat as possible.

  7. You’ll then want to use contact adhesive on your EPDM edges. Make sure that this coat is thin and consistent. Also, apply it to any upstands across your roof deck. Leave the adhesive facing upwards until it is dry to the touch. At this point, you can fold it back over. If you have any excess lengths on your EPDM, now is the time to trim them.

  8. Should you have any external corners or similar features on a roof profile that cannot be covered by the EPDM as efficiently, you’ll want to use Start by cutting this material to size, allowing for the height of your upstand plus an additional 75mm on the length, as well as 150mm on the width.

  9. Apply an EPDM Rubber Primer first – slightly bigger than the Elastoform patch, before waiting for it to become dry to the touch. Then, you can add the Elastoform tape. You should bond the area that requires no stretching first. Then, you can use a roller or similar product (or even just your own hands) to make sure the Elastoform is properly moulded. You can then stretch the Elastoform and use the penny roller to apply light pressure and ensure it has bonded to all surfaces.

  10. Returning to your mortar joint, you can now install the wall trim by adding it to the wall and then drilling both, to accept the RawlPlug accessory into the wall, followed by the You should then apply mastic to the wall trim of your build.

  11. We will now move onto the corners of your EPDM roofing. Fold the corners of the membrane back and create a ‘pig’s ear’ by pinching the membrane and then folding that pinch against the trim, creating a shape that looks a lot like the fold’s namesake.

  12. You can then add the trim corner. Apply pressure to squash the foam sealer before using polypins to nail into the fascia and battens.

  13. Fit the plastic trim kerb edge. Cut it to length and fit as close as possible. Ensure the foam is compressed to around 70%-80% before nailing in the polypins.

  14. Snap any joints into position as securely as you can. Then you can apply your plastic trim drip or gutter to the trim using polypins, installing jointing clips along the lengths where they are required. Trim any excess rubber with scissors.

  15. You’re done! Inspect your new roof and go over the steps again to ensure you haven’t missed anything. Finally, enjoy your new EPDM roof, courtesy of Classic Bond!

Final Thoughts

Now installed, your Classic Bond roof may well continue to thrive for 50 years, with only a little maintenance required. Inspect every few months – especially in wet seasons – for any puddling or pooling, as this is the main issue faced by most flat roof buildings. Also, ensure trims and gutters are in good working condition with no cracks or other minor damage.

Any Questions?

If you have any more questions about Classic Bond roofs, whether related to installation, maintenance or simply just the products on offer, don’t hesitate to contact our award-winning customer service team on 01295 565565. We’ll be happy to help.

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