Ever noticed mysterious bubbles forming on your EPDM roof? These bubbles serve as warning signs that demand your attention. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) roofing offers exceptional durability and weather resistance, but air bubbles can compromise your roof's integrity and performance. Understanding what causes these bubbles helps you better protect your investment and avoid costly roof repairs down the road.
Common Causes of Air Bubbles in EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing consists of durable synthetic rubber sheets that create a waterproof barrier for your building. When properly installed, this roofing system provides years of reliable protection, but several factors can lead to problematic air bubbles forming beneath the surface.
1. Trapped Moisture
If your roof deck contains even a small amount of trapped water under the EPDM membrane, that water turns to vapor when heated by the sun. Since the EPDM roofing material is impermeable, the vapor has nowhere to escape, leading to noticeable bubbles.
2. Poor Adhesion During Installation
EPDM adhesive glue is what secures the membrane. If the adhesive is applied unevenly or the sheets are laid down too soon, gaps can form between the membrane and the substrate. Air can become trapped in these spaces, leading to bubbles as temperatures rise.
3. Temperature Fluctuations During Installation
Applying EPDM roofing material in cold or damp conditions can lead to adhesion problems. If the glue doesn’t bond properly, warm weather can cause air pockets to expand, creating bubbles beneath the membrane. For best results, EPDM should be installed in dry conditions when temperatures are above 45°F.
4. Solvent-Based Adhesive Off-Gassing
Some EPDM adhesive glue formulations release gases as they cure. If the membrane is laid down too quickly, these gases can become trapped, forming bubbles. Solvent-based adhesives need to flash off before pressing the membrane into place. Water-based adhesives reduce this risk but require a different application process.
5. Substrate Irregularities
A rough or uneven roof deck can create gaps between the EPDM membrane and the surface. Over time, heat and pressure can force air into these spaces, causing bubbles to appear.
What To Do If Bubbles Appear
Small bubbles may not immediately threaten your roof’s performance, but larger or expanding bubbles can indicate a bigger problem. If bubbles are widespread, your roof may require professional repair. In some cases, a small incision can release trapped air, followed by re-adhering the membrane with EPDM adhesive glue. However, persistent bubbling often signals underlying moisture issues that require a full roof inspection.
Protect Your EPDM Roof With Expert Installation
Air bubbles can compromise your roof’s performance, but the right installation prevents costly repairs down the line. Whether you’re installing a new EPDM membrane or need repairs on an existing roof, professional expertise makes all the difference. At Superior Roofing, we install every EPDM roof with precision, using high-quality materials and expert techniques. Don’t let small issues turn into major problems — contact us today for a free inspection and protect your investment for years to come.