Firestone EPDM rubber waterproofing, resistant to root penetration

10 min read

4,251

In the construction of green roofs, root-penetration-resistant waterproofing is used. This is a heat-weldable membrane with integrated protection against root penetration, compliant with FLL standards and featuring superior quality properties. In collaboration with Firestone, the global leader in the production of EPDM rubber membranes used for waterproofing flat and terrace roofs, our company carries out residential and commercial waterproofing works.

From the design phase of any ecological construction carried out on terraces or roofs, we can provide full support in selecting the systems best suited to the investment, taking into account the budget and construction possibilities.

Firestone membranes – history, description

Firestone’s tradition and success in the construction industry began with the Firestone Building Products division, a manufacturer of high-quality EPDM rubber membranes for waterproofing flat and terrace roofs. Firestone Building Products entered the waterproofing market by opening an EPDM waterproofing membrane production plant in Prescott, USA. To date, the company has manufactured and installed over 1,500,000,000 m² of Firestone RubberGard™ EPDM waterproofing systems. The system is single-ply, based on its main component, RubberGard, a synthetic single-ply rubber membrane composed of ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPDM) mixed with carbon black, oils, vulcanizing agents, and other additives.

Green roof using the Firestone EPDM system

The RubberGard EPDM rubber membrane for waterproofing terrace-type roofs has successfully passed the FLL root penetration resistance test for green roofs. This membrane is ideal for use as the base of both extensive and intensive green roof systems. By using filtering and mechanically protective geotextile at the base of the layer structure, a durable solution is ensured for any type of roof covering. In the case of ballasted EPDM waterproofing, the vegetated roof system replaces other ballast materials, at slightly higher costs but with all the advantages of a green terrace.

Advantages of EPDM waterproofing

Fast, simple, and safe installation
Firestone membranes are supplied in sheets with widths ranging from 3.05 m to 15.25 m and lengths of up to 61 m, making them easy to handle and reducing the number of joints. This shortens installation time and minimizes the risk of installation errors. No heat sources, hot air, or open flames are required, eliminating fire risk during installation.

Flexible and elastic
It can be installed on virtually any type of roof. With elasticity of up to 300%, it easily follows the roof geometry, quickly adapting to any irregular surface, and provides resistance to building movements and temperature fluctuations.

Durability
In addition to the manufacturer’s warranties, it is worth noting that the first Firestone EPDM waterproofing systems were installed over 40 years ago and are still functioning today without major interventions or repairs. Since the membrane does not contain plasticizers or flame retardants, its characteristics remain stable and unchanged over time, offering high resistance to ozone and UV radiation, making it a durable solution.

Low long-term costs
Firestone RubberGard EPDM requires no maintenance. Even after long-term exposure to weather conditions, mechanical interventions can be easily carried out using simple household tools and repair materials provided by Firestone.

Sustainability
Firestone RubberGard EPDM is a chemically inert material with a low environmental impact during manufacturing, installation, and use. The membrane does not emit toxic substances, allowing rainwater collection and reuse. In addition, RubberGard EPDM can be recycled and reused in the production of paving blocks and road asphalt.

Firestone EPDM roofing systems

EPDM roofing membranes must be compatible with other component materials within the roof layer build-up, integrating into a complete waterproofing system capable of performing under extreme climatic conditions.

Based on these conditions, several roofing systems can be selected:

Ballasted system
The Firestone ballasted system uses RubberGard EPDM membranes laid loose on a suitable substrate. Adjacent membrane sheets are overlapped by at least 100 mm and bonded using Firestone QuickSeam™ Splice Tape. Perimeter areas and penetrations are sealed in accordance with Firestone specifications. After seaming, the membrane is secured with river gravel, flat paving slabs with a minimum weight of 50 kg/m², or green roof systems.

Firestone fully adhered system (FAS)
The fully adhered system can be used on any roof with thermal insulation compatible with Firestone contact adhesives. On these structures, the thermal insulation must be fixed using an appropriate fastening system to ensure high resistance to wind uplift.

Firestone mechanically fastened systems
Firestone mechanically fastened systems represent a cost-effective installation method for roofs with a thermal insulation structure that provides sufficient pull-out resistance for the fastening system and a roof slope not exceeding a 1:3 ratio. The system is fastened with screws directly to the building roof or terrace structure. Firestone offers three mechanical fastening options for RubberGard EPDM membranes: RMA, MAS, and BIS systems, or combinations thereof. In perimeter areas, membranes can also be secured to the thermal insulation using the fully adhered method.

We offer waterproofing works using the Firestone EPDM system, a global market leader in its segment. The service is primarily available to residential clients, usually bundled with the installation of a green roof/green terrace, but standalone projects, retrofit waterproofing, repairs of existing waterproofing systems, etc. can also be carried out.

The manufacturers whose materials are used in the construction of green roofs are internationally and locally recognized. Our team, having already completed joint projects with reliable and visually impressive results, is capable of installing and maintaining all these components. Through us, the quality of construction elements used in ecological roof developments is complemented by the professionalism of a skilled and experienced workforce.

This may include an industrial hall designed with an extensive green roof, an office building with an intensive green terrace featuring recreation and relaxation areas, or a shopping center with parking and an intensive landscape-type green roof. The competence of our team ensures that all products used in the project are compatible and that the final result forms a coherent and unified system.