Voice of an FSR – Inspecting EPDM Roofs

Jesse Thurston, a Field Service Representative (FSR) for Carlisle SynTec Systems, has inspected many roofs during his 25 years at Carlisle. Rooftop inspections are required on all roofing projects that are eligible for a Carlisle warranty. During a rooftop inspection, a Carlisle FSR will walk the field and perimeter of the roof to check for proper detail work and will identify any areas that may require repairs to ensure the that the installed system performs to the highest of Carlisle standards. Below, Jesse provides his insight on his experience as an FSR, shares common mistakes he’s encountered during the inspection of EPDM roofs, and discusses some best practices for contractors when preparing for an inspection.

What are some of the most common mistakes you encounter when performing an EPDM roof inspection?

• Fishmouths in the field seams. I find these typically in the deck flange splice of separate curb flashings or wall flashings
• Lap Sealant missing at cut edges of reinforced membrane and uncured EPDM flashing
• Missing T-Joint Cover at splice intersection
• T-Joint Cover installed but not aligned properly over the splice intersection
• Loose or missing drain bolts
• Hole in the membrane not cut larger than the drain pipe diameter
• Ponding water at Pourable Sealer Pockets; Pourable Sealer should be crowned to avoid this

Do you have any tips or advice that may help a contractor avoid these mistakes on their next EPDM project?

• Completing a pre-inspection is one way to avoid these and other RFW (Repair for Warranty) items. Another way would be to call the local FSR with system related questions.

Why is it important that a contractor complete a project in its entirety before scheduling the final inspection?

• Generally, not waiting until the project is completed results in a re-inspect which costs time and money. The most common incomplete item found during inspections scheduled prior to job completion is edge metal, which is one of the most critical parts of the roof system. Many uplifts start at the roof edge.

You have inspected a variety of Carlisle’s single-ply systems – in what situations do you believe it is advantageous to choose an EPDM membrane over other low slope roofing options, and why?

• With EPDM, there is less of a chance of condensation occurring in the roof system, especially in climates where there are more heating days than cooling days
• EPDM is available in wider widths which results in less seams and increased productivity
• EPDM seams do not require the extra work of probing
• EPDM does not require specialized equipment such as hot air welders, automatic welders, and large generators

New products like CAV-GRIP III Adhesive, Self-Adhering Technology (SAT) EPDM membranes, and RapidLock EPDM are gaining in popularity for a variety of reasons. From your experience, what are contractors saying they like most about them?

• The feedback from contractors has been very positive. They really like the ease of application and quick flash-off time of CAV-GRIP III. Those attributes provide a huge advantage over standard bonding adhesive.
• SAT EPDM and RapidLock save time, cut down on jobsite waste, and are great options for projects like hospitals, where adhesive odors could be an issue.

The current economy has presented a myriad of challenges and labor is hard to come by. What do you see contractors doing to maintain their level of quality and increase productivity while battling with the labor shortage?

• I think training new employees can be beneficial. Training will help to develop their skills and create a sense of pride in their profession
• Using innovative, productivity-boosting products will result in smaller crew sizes and reduce the overall amount of work

For more information on Carlisle’s Sure-Seal EPDM membrane, contact your local Carlisle Manufacturer’s Representative. For additional information on what to expect when a Carlisle Field Service Representative performs a rooftop inspection, check out our What to Expect When We Are Inspecting video series on the Carlisle website.