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EPDM has been used on flat roofs for decades. Not coincidentally: the material is known for its flexibility, UV resistance, root resistance, flame-free installation and exceptional durability. What until now was mainly based on practical experience has now also been officially confirmed in an independent laboratory study.
The renowned German SKZ laboratory tested four different EPDM membranes from leading brands, commissioned by VESP (United EPDM System Producers).. The study confirms black and white that EPDM roof membranes achieve a service life of at least 70 years under normal conditions of use.
The membranes were subjected to accelerated aging tests via High Pressure Autoclave Testing (HPAT), in accordance with EN ISO 13438.
During this testing procedure, the samples are exposed to elevated temperatures (up to 90 °C) and oxygen pressures for a specified period of time, mimicking natural aging over decades.
After the HPAT tests, the tensile strength of the membranes was measured according to EN 12311-2, a crucial indicator of material degradation. The data obtained were then extrapolated via an Arrhenius model, which included oxygen dissolution behavior in aqueous environments. This is an approach known to be particularly reliable in service life calculations.
The result is clear:
all EPDM membranes tested easily exceed the 70-year service life limit at a standard operating temperature of 40 °C and atmospheric pressure. Some extrapolations even reach well above that.
With these results, EPDM confirms its place as the reference for those looking for a roofing material with proven longevity, low material impact and minimal maintenance needs. The results also provide additional assurance in the context of tenders, sustainability scores and circular building ambitions.
Those who choose EPDM today are choosing proven performance over multiple generations. And that aligns perfectly with what we stand for: Cover Today, Cover Tomorrow.