Frequently Asked Questions
Need a little help? Below is a list of the most popular questions that we have been asked. If there are any questions not answered below please do not hesitate to contact us.
Installation
What is Firestone RubberCover EPDM?
EPDM means ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is a synthetic rubber, with outstanding weatherproof properties, developed over 50 years ago.
I have never installed a rubber flat roof… is it easy?
Our Firestone RubberCover kits are specifically designed for the competent DIYer. Some roofs are very easy to weatherproof, particularly freestanding roofs etc. Some roofs require more expertise eg. roofs with multiple skylights or awkward pipes and apertures.
Do I need specialist equipment to install my new rubber roof?
You should only need basic hand tools for a straightforward roof. eg. tape measure, shovel, broom, hammer, handsaw, rubbish bags etc.
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 Firestone RubberCover.
I am worried about stripping off my old roof and leaving it exposed to the elements!
We strongly advise our clients to check both the weather forecast and that they have the correct materials on site prior to starting. The beauty of the Firestone RubberCover system is that if you do get caught in an unexpected shower you have a pre-cut weatherproof sheet to hand... which you can use as a tarpaulin!
Do I need to strip off my old roof?
It depends if the timber substrate is sound. If there has been a long term leak, or the decking is chipboard, then the roof may need reboarding in places. If the substrate is sound and the felt cleaned of dust etc then the EPDM can probably be adhered directly to it using contact adhesive (although this is more tricky to install).
To save the time and expense, some customers simply overboard their roofs with new ply or OSB, screwing into the existing substrate.
Is there an up or down when installing the rubber?
Firestone RubberCover is identical on both sides.
Are the products safe to use?
Yes and all products are supplied with clear instructions and safety data sheets. Sensible precautions should be taken ie. do not inhale adhesive fumes, do not allow children access to the products etc.
How long will my roof last?
Your new Firestone RubberCover membrane is guaranteed not to fail due to weathering for 20 years. It is essential that the product is installed in accordance with our detailed instructions.
Is RubbaSeal environmentally friendly?
Yes, EPDM is an inert material with limited environmental impact during manufacture and installation.
Can I use RubbaSeal in really hot or really cold weather?
For the best results use in mild conditions, the adhesives should not be used if temperatures are likely to be below 5 degrees celsius within 24 hours.
Can I use RubbaSeal on top of insulation boards to create a warm roof?
We recommend a ply faced insulation board eg Kingspan TR31 or similar. Alternatively you can insulate on top of the decking with foil faced boards, then overdeck with OSB or plywood, secured with long screws.
Can I adhere Firestone RubberCover 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 overboarding roofs with a minimum 10mm ply or OSB and using the water based glue.
Can I walk on my new Firestone RubberCover roof?
The membrane is incredibly tough and perfect for maintenance access. For balconies etc then we would recommend additional protection. Eg paving slabs, walkway pads or timber decking.
My RubbaSeal appears to be quite chalky, is that OK?
Chalk is used in the manufacturing process to prevent the membrane sticking together. It will gradually weather off and does not affect it's lifespan.
I have some wrinkles in my RubbaSeal, is this a problem?
There may be wrinkles or creases in the membrane. These may be caused in manufacturing or shipping. Open out and allow the membrane to "relax" for as long as possible prior to adhering. For stubborn creases a gentle heat source (eg a heat gun or hairdryer) should be applied prior to adhering.
There are joins in the rubber, why is this?
Firestone RubberCover is manufactured in the USA and the large panels are created using vulcanised seams. The material of these seams are homogenous and 100% cured.
Can I install RubbaSeal in the rain?
The water based adhesive will work on damp timber but is not designed to be used in the rain. Contact adhesives will only work on dry substrates.
Can I install a cement screed on top of EPDM to create a walkway or balcony?
Firestone RubberCover is perfectly compatible with sand and cement.
What is the biggest size of Firestone RubberCover that you stock?
Our largest 045 roll is an incredible 15.25m x 30.5m (50ft x 100ft).
My EPDM roof has been damaged, can it be repaired?
EPDM roofs can be easily repaired using the 9" quickseam formflash and primer, cut the formflash to the desired shape and size, prime the area, allow to go touch dry. Peel the backing paper off and mate the surfaces together. Roller using a silicone roller.
General
How do I place an order?
Orders are generally placed online via the online cart. Though orders can be placed over the phone, via email or fax.
How will my order arrive?
The rubber will arrive wrapped in a hessian sack. Trims are bundled and packaged separately. Accessories and adhesives will arrive boxed.
When will I receive my order?
All orders received before 2 PM are despatched the same day, for next working day delivery. Please note, for next day delivery on Techno 045 and 060 rolls and Lineflex orders must be placed before 11 AM.
Who will deliver my goods?
Our preferred carrier is DX, although some larger orders are sent via specialist pallet distribution companies.
Where can I get my order delivered?
Using our dropship service means you can have your order delivered anywhere in mainland UK.
How do I return something?
Please do not open any items you wish to return, they must be sealed and intact.
Please call and notify us, package and return to us at Unit 7 Blenheim Road, M40 Industrial Estate, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP12 3RS.
Please note there is a 10% restocking charge on all items.
My items have been damaged or there is a problem with my order.
Please call the office immediately.
How do I get my 20-year membrane warranty?
Please register your details on the website, log in using your credentials, select account on the top navigation bar, then orders.
Click the order you wish to generate a warranty for, scroll to the bottom and download the warranty.
Can I get trade discounts?
We offer trade discounts based on spend, if you would like more information on opening a trade account, and the discounts available, please call us on 01494 473660.
Firestone
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.
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 Firestone RubberCover EPDM.
Which substrates are suitable for Firestone RubberCover™ 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 Firestone RubberCover 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 Firestone RubberCover 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 Firestone RubberCover™ 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 Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM roof?
The roof can be accessed for periodical maintenance.
Is there a warranty for Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM membrane?
We provide a 20-year membrane warranty.
Can the Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM membrane be ballasted?
Yes, it is possible to cover the membrane with gravel pavers but the membrane must always adhere to the substrate. Firestone recommends the use of a protective geotextile (polyester 300 g/m²) between the membrane and the ballast.
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.
Can Firestone RubberCover™ 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 Firestone RubberCover™ QuickPrime Plus?
Firestone QuickPrime Plus primer must be used with ALL Firestone QuickSeam products to clean and prime the membrane before application of the QuickSeam products.
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.
What is the coverage rate of Firestone RubberCover™ Bonding Adhesive?
The coverage rate is 1 litre per 2 m² (two-sided).
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 %.
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 before the installation of the membrane.
Is Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM membrane available in different colours?
No.
The membrane is only available in black.
Can Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM be repaired?
Yes.
The membrane can be easily repaired with a piece of Firestone RubberCover QuickSeam Flashing.
Can certain materials damage Firestone RubberCover™ 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 Firestone RubberCover EPDM roofing system. However, Firestone recommends a yearly inspection of the roof.
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.
Does Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM membrane require a protective topcoat?
No, the Firestone RubberCover EPDM membrane is resistant to UV and ozone.
Does Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM Membrane have an up and underside?
No, there is no difference between the top and bottom of the membrane.
Is Firestone RubberCover EPDM environmentally friendly?
Yes.
EPDM is an inert material with limited environmental impact during both the manufacture and installation process.
Can Firestone RubberCover™ EPDM be combined with a Green Roof System?
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 30cm must be taken into account between the vegetation and every roof installation detail.
Lineflex
How long will Lineflex Fleece Backed EPDM last?
Lineflex Fleece Backed membrane has a life expectancy of 50 years.
Does the membrane come with warranty?
Yes, you will receive a 20-year warranty on Lineflex Fleece Backed membranes.
Can it be walked on?
For maintenance access only.
How long does it take to weld and does it need time to cure?
Weld at a rate of 2.5 metres per minute and it sets pretty much instantly
What fire regulations does Lineflex have?
EN 13501
Does the fleece back still need insulation?
Yes.
The fleece has minimal impact on U value.
Is training required?
We offer a range of installer training, please see our training section.