Frequently Asked Questions

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a vulcanised synthetic rubber manufactured from ethylene, propylene and diene monomers. It forms an elastomer with a cross-linked molecular chain that gives it permanent elasticity, inherent UV resistance and exceptional thermal stability. Unlike PVC or bitumen, EPDM is not a thermoplastic — it does not soften in heat or crack in cold. It is the waterproofing membrane with the highest proven service life on the market.

EPDM membrane has over 46 documented applications: flat and pitched roofs, green roofs, terraces and balconies, pools and ponds, foundations and basements, tunnels and bridges, water reservoirs, aquaculture tanks and effluent treatment lagoons. Its versatility, elasticity and resistance to UV, ozone and extreme temperatures make it suitable for virtually any surface requiring durable waterproofing.

They are fundamentally different technologies. PVC is a thermoplastic that softens in heat, requires additional UV stabilisers that are consumed over time, contains plasticisers (often phthalates) that migrate over the years causing embrittlement, and has a limited temperature range (-15°C to +60°C). EPDM is a vulcanised rubber with inherent UV resistance, no plasticisers, that operates from -45°C to +130°C and is 100% recyclable. In terms of total cost of ownership over 30 years, EPDM is significantly more economical.

Yes — it is especially well-suited. EPDM's inherent UV resistance and its ability to withstand surface temperatures up to +130°C make it ideal for the hot summers of the Alentejo and Algarve. Studies in Mediterranean countries confirm that EPDM membranes aged over 20 years retain practically unchanged physical and mechanical properties, even after intense sun exposure. For Portugal — with 2,500 to 3,200 sunshine hours per year — this characteristic is decisive.

Yes, with the correct specification. There are EPDM membranes specifically formulated and certified for contact with water intended for human consumption, complying with standards such as WRAS in the UK and ANSI/NSF in the USA. For drinking water reservoirs, cisterns and rainwater harvesting systems, Membriko always specifies the appropriate product and provides compliance documentation.

It depends on the thickness and system installed. A 1.14 mm EPDM membrane is not dimensioned for regular pedestrian traffic. For terraces with foot traffic, 1.52 mm or thicker EPDM is recommended, with an appropriate protection layer (screed, floating pavers or timber decking on supports). For roofs with occasional maintenance access, the membrane can be walked on with care. Membriko dimensions the correct system based on the intended use.

Yes, and it is the ideal combination. EPDM is frequently used as the waterproofing base for solar panel installations on flat roofs. It is chemically inert, does not react with fixing system materials, and tolerates mechanical anchor penetration without compromising watertightness when properly sealed. Ballasted fixing systems (no penetration) are even simpler to implement with EPDM. Membriko has experience in combined solar and EPDM roofing projects.

Yes. Membriko operates across mainland Portugal, from Viana do Castelo to the Algarve and from Lisbon to Bragança. For island projects (Azores and Madeira) we evaluate on a case-by-case basis. Contact us with your project details to check availability and conditions. The technical visit and quote are always free and no-obligation.