Protecting Northeast Minneapolis Homes: Expert Residential EPDM Flat Roof Installation
Homes in Northeast Minneapolis boast incredible character, but navigating the structural quirks of these unique properties—especially when dealing with harsh Twin Cities weather—requires local expertise. At Englund Roofing, we specialize in addressing the specific challenges of flat roofing in the metro area. We recently completed a residential flat roof transformation on NE Polk Street right here in Northeast Minneapolis. We turned an exposed, vulnerable cement deck into a highly durable, fully adhered 60-mil EPDM roofing system. Here is a look at our process for keeping Northeast homes watertight.
The Challenge: An Exposed Cement Roof in NE Mpls
Many older homes and additions in Northeast Minneapolis feature unique architectural elements, including flat concrete roof decks. While cement is structurally rigid, it is highly susceptible to cracking, freezing, and thawing without a dedicated waterproofing system. This property needed a robust barrier to prevent water intrusion.
Step 1: Creating a Wind-Resistant Base with Insta-Stik
A flat roof in Minneapolis needs to withstand severe wind uplift. To prepare the concrete deck for the rubber membrane, our crew first laid down a layer of protective fiberboard.
To avoid the invasive and labor-intensive process of drilling mechanical fasteners into the concrete, we used a professional-grade Insta-Stik adhesive. By applying this adhesive directly to the cement, we securely bonded the fiberboard in place. This ensures the foundational layer will not shift, lift, or blow off during severe Northeast Minneapolis storms.
Step 2: Installing the 60-Mil EPDM System
With the fiberboard fully secured, we installed the primary defense system: the EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer) rubber membrane.
For this NE Polk St. home, we utilized a premium 60-mil EPDM fully adhered system.
- Why 60-mil? The extra thickness offers superior resistance to punctures, pooling water, and the inevitable Twin Cities hail, far outperforming standard 45-mil rubber.
- Why fully adhered? By gluing the membrane directly to the fiberboard substrate, we completely eliminate billowing, providing the highest level of wind uplift resistance available for residential flat roofs.
Step 3: The Finished Watertight EPDM Roof Product
The final result is a beautiful, seamless flat roof ready to take on the elements. Our team meticulously wrapped the existing posts, flashed the perimeter, and ensured every seam was perfectly tight. This new EPDM system is designed to seamlessly expand and contract through Minneapolis’s freezing winters and sweltering summers.
Your Local Northeast Minneapolis Flat Roof Experts
Flat roofing requires specialized techniques and premium materials. If you live in the Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood and have a residential flat roof that needs replacement, repair, or an inspection, Englund Roofing is your trusted local partner.
Protect your Northeast home today! Contact Englund Roofing for a free consultation and estimate.
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