TRC FAQs

What is TRC EPDM membrane?

EPDM means ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is a synthetic rubber, with outstanding weatherproof properties, developed over 20 years ago.

How long does it take to install?

The average (20m2) rear extension should only take a morning to install. Getting the roof stripped off and any decking replaced if needed usually takes longer than installing the TRC EPDM.

Which substrates are suitable for TRC EPDM?

Water-based adhesive is to be used on timber substrates. Contact adhesive (solvent-based) can be used on most other substrates but not foam insulation boards.

Can I use TRC EPDM on top of insulation boards to create a warm roof?

We recommend a ply faced insulation board, for example, Kingspan TR31 or similar. Alternatively, you can insulate on top of the decking with foil-faced boards, then overboard with OSB or plywood, secured with long screws.

Can I adhere TRC EPDM directly to felt, fibreglass, asphalt or concrete?

Our contact adhesive can be used for this type of application but, unlike our water-based glue, this is quite tricky to do on large areas. We strongly recommend over boarding roofs with a minimum of 12mm ply or OSB and using water-based glue.

Can TRC EPDM membrane be adhered to a wet surface?

No. Ponded water, snow, frost and ice must be removed from the roof surface before installation of the membrane. Water-based adhesives can be applied to a damp substrate.

Can I walk on a TRC EPDM roof?

The roof can be accessed for periodical maintenance. 

Is there a warranty for TRC EPDM membrane?

We provide a 20-year membrane warranty. 

Can the TRC EPDM membrane be ballasted?

Yes, it is possible to cover the membrane with gravel pavers but the membrane must always adhere to the substrate. TRC recommends the use of a protective geotextile (polyester 300 g/m²) between the membrane and the ballast.

Are any precautions required during installation?

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

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

The use of double-walled penetrations is required.

Which products require the application of TRC Primer?

TRC primer must be used with ALL TRC products to clean and prime the membrane before application of the primer products.

Must the membrane be cleaned before applying TRC Primer?

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

What is the coverage rate of TRC Contact Adhesive?

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

Is the use of TRC Contact Adhesive weather dependent?

Yes. The minimum temperature required for application of TRC Contact Adhesive is + 5°C and the maximum humidity is 80 %.

Must the roof surface be cleaned before adhesion of TRC 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 before the installation of the membrane.

Is TRC EPDM membrane available in different colours?

No. The membrane is only available in black.

Can TRC EPDM be repaired?

Yes. The membrane can be easily repaired with a piece of TRC Flashing Tape.

Can certain materials damage TRC EPDM?

Yes. Contact with mineral and vegetable oils, petroleum-based products, fresh bitumen, and grease should be avoided.

Is maintenance required?

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

How long will TRC EPDM membrane last?

TRC 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.

Does TRC EPDM membrane require a protective topcoat?

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

Does TRC EPDM Membrane have an up and underside?

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

Is TRC EPDM environmentally friendly?

Yes. EPDM is an inert material with limited environmental impact during both the manufacture and installation process.

Can TRC EPDM be combined with a Green Roof System?

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

There appear to be small holes in the membrane: is it faulty?

The appearance of small holes in the membrane is called "pockmarking" and it's quite commonplace with EPDM. The EPDM manufacturing process involves laminating two layers of rubber together, and so any indentation in one sheet will be sealed by the second layer. The EPDM we receive passes strict internal quality control measures, and the 20-year warranty remains unaffected.