Blog

EPDM Applications

In our past blog entry, we had talked about EPDM roofing. Today, we talk more about its many applications.

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) roofing is a black or white rubber membrane commonly used in flat and low-slope roof applications because it’s extremely durable, and serves as an impermeable barrier to the elements. Here in Western Ontario and Manitoba, we’re no strangers to the elements. EPDM roofing has been used extensively in harsh climates like ours for nearly 40 years, and the evidence supports it’s use as one of the most durable roofing materials available.

EPDM is a great material to use when re-roofing an existing flat or low slope roof, and it allows unprecedented freedom when designing new construction.

Consider this – conventional roofing materials (shingles) require that the roof itself be pitched, to encourage water to run off. With EPDM, you are free to design a structure free from the constraints of roof pitch. Whether you’re designing a commercial shopping plaza, or a fantastic new cottage or boathouse, EPDM might be just the material you’re looking for. Its durability makes it an environmentally responsible choice, as it will outlast traditional roofing materials by a large margin, and it need not look like a rubber roof. One of the common ways to apply it is with a ballast of gravel or river rock on top of it, which can give it a natural look in any colour the ballast material is available in.

The EPDM membrane itself is available in a number of thicknesses, depending on the level of protection required, and in widths up to 50’. As a result of this width, it’s possible to create a roof with minimal seaming. As an added plus, EPDM seams are made with adhesive, not open flame, so it’s safer to apply.

At REMR Roofing, we install a lot of roofs, many of them on Lake properties. We’d love a chance to talk to you about your upcoming roofing projects.

REMR Roofing can be reached online, or by telephone in Kenora at 807-548-2811, Dryden at 807-223-5223, and in Winnipeg at 204-237-5401.

Getting the Cottage Ready for Summer

It seems really late this year, but the weather’s finally turned.

Time to take the tarp off the boat, find the life jackets, hitch up the trailer and head out to the cottage.  Just like every year, the first visit will be mostly about getting ready for subsequent trips.  Here’s a quick list of things to make sure you take care of, so the rest of your summer can be all about enjoying your home away from home.

Perimeter Check

Before entering, walk around your cottage, and check for any signs of break and enter.  The last thing you want to do is surprise an unwelcome human or creature that’s taken up residence over the winter without permission.  If there are signs of break-in, get some back-up from a neighbour or better yet, the local police department before entering.

Look for signs of damage to the outside of your cabin caused by weather, snow, or animals.  Take a good look at the siding and roof shingles – winters up here can be pretty harsh, and you might find the good roof you left in the fall is in need of repair or replacement now.

Interior Check

Look for indicators of pest infestation, and remove any remains you find promptly.  Check all surfaces for droppings, and clean them with disinfectant.  Make sure you use appropriate respiratory protection, as some animals, like pigeons, bats, raccoons, and deer mice leave hazardous material behind.  Look for sights of roof leakage, and don’t forget to check the chimney to ensure no creatures have made a nest inside.

Utilities

Make sure your heating system, your telephone (if you have one), and your water work.  If you source your water from a well or lake, have it tested several times a year to make sure it’s healthy.  Your washroom facilities, whether indoors or out, need to be prepared for a season of use.

When it comes to your roof, you can trust REMR Roofing to take good care of your cottage.  We do a lot of work in the Lake of the Woods region, as well as vacation spots around Western Ontario and Manitoba.