Frequently Asked Questions

What is Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane?

Firestone RubberCover EPDM is a 100% cured single-ply roofing membrane made of a synthetic rubber Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Terpolymer. Since 1980, more than 1.000.000.000 m² of Firestone EPDM membranes have been successfully installed on commercial, industrial and residential roofs worldwide.

Does Firestone RubberCover EPDM Membrane have an up- and underside?

No, there is no difference between the top and bottom of the membrane.

Does Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane require a protective top coat?

No, the Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane is resistant to UV and ozone.

How long will Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane last?

Firestone RubberCover EPDM membranes offer unmatched resistance to UV radiation, ozone, alkaline rains and high or low temperatures. Recent studies show that the membrane has a life expectancy of more than 50 years, even when exposed to sunlight.

Is maintenance required?

No specific maintenance is required for a Firestone RubberCover EPDM roofing system. However, Firestone recommends a yearly inspection of the roof.

Can certain materials damage Firestone RubberCover EPDM?

The membrane is less resistant to oil products. Contact with mineral and vegetable oils, petroleum based products, fresh bitumen and grease must be avoided.

How can Firestone RubberCover EPDM be repaired in case of damage?

The membrane can be easily repaired with a piece of Firestone RubberCover QuickSeam SA Flashing.

Is Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane available in different colours?

No, the membrane is only available in black.

Which substrates are suitable for adhesion of Firestone RubberCover EPDM?

Compatible substrates are wood, Firestone ISOGARD HD insulation boards, PIR and PUR insulation, bitumen, concrete, masonry, aluminium, zinc and lead. Firestone RubberCover EPDM can overlay virtually any old roof, provided the roof decking is sound and the existing structure can carry the load of the new roofing system.

Can Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM membrane be adhered on a wet surface?

No. Ponded water, snow, frost and ice must be removed from the roof surface before installation of the membrane.

Must the roof surface be cleaned before adhesion of Firestone RubberCover EPDM?

The surface must be clean, smooth, dry and free of sharp and/or loose objects and/or foreign materials such as oil, grease, and/or other contaminants. Therefore, it is recommended to sweep the substrate with a brush prior to the installation of the membrane.

Is the use of Firestone RubberCover™ Bonding Adhesive weather dependent?

Yes, the minimum temperature required for application of RubberCover Bonding Adhesive is + 5°C and the maximum humidity is 80 %.

Is one-sided application of Firestone RubberCover Bonding Adhesive sufficient?

No. Firestone Bonding Adhesive must always be applied two-sided, i.e. both to the underside of the membrane as well as to the substrate.

What is the coverage rate of Firestone RubberCover Bonding Adhesive?

The coverage rate is 1 liter per 2 m² (two-sided).

Must the membrane be cleaned before applying Firestone RubberCover QuickPrime Plus?

No, except when the membrane is extremely dirty, in which case it must be cleaned with water and a clean rag.

Which products require application of Firestone RubberCover QuickPrime Plus?

Firestone QuickPrime Plus primer must be used with ALL Firestone QuickSeam products in order to clean and prime the membrane before application of the QuickSeam products.

Are specific tools required for installation?

Besides the Firestone RubberCover QuickScrubber tool and hand roller, following tools are needed: scissors, measurer, solvent resistant paint roller, chalk line, bucket, mixer (for Bonding Adhesive), clean rags, broom.

Are any precautions required during installation?

Firestone Bonding Adhesive and Firestone QuickPrime Plus can only be used in well ventilated areas. Both products must be kept away from ignition sources. Do not smoke when using. Firestone recommends wearing gloves when applying Firestone QuickPrime Plus. For further information, please consult the Safety Data Sheets and/or the information shown on the product labels.

Which drains can be used with Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane?

Following materials can be used to insert drains: EPDM, zinc, flexible PVC, galvanized and stainless steel.

Can Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane be in contact with a hot pipe penetration (e.g. chimney)?

The use of double-walled penetrations is required.

Can I walk on a Firestone RubberCover EPDM roof?

The roof can be accessed for periodical maintenance. In case of regular roof traffic, the membrane must be protected with pavers.

Can Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane be used for lining applications?

No. The Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane is only suitable for roofs, façades and gutters.

Can Firestone RubberCover EPDM be combined with a Green Roof System?

A sedum vegetation can be placed over the RubberCover EPDM membrane, provided that a root resistant geotextile is used between the vegetation and the membrane. A distance of 30 cm must be taken in account between the vegetation and every roof installation detail.

Can the Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane be ballasted?

Yes, it is possible to cover the membrane with gravel, pavers or bankirai wood but the membrane must always be fully adhered to the substrate. Firestone recommends the use of a protective geotextile (polyester 300 g/m²) between the membrane and the ballast.

Is there a warranty for Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane?

Firestone provides a 10 year material warranty.