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The difference between European and American EPDM

Although both materials are reliable, the main difference lies in the manufacturing process. This becomes particularly noticeable during installation.

American EPDM

American EPDM is often produced using a vulcanisation process and supplied with a layer of talcum powder. This powder prevents the material from sticking together during transport and storage, but it also introduces several disadvantages during installation:

  • Talcum powder can reduce the adhesion of adhesives and tapes.

  • Additional cleaning is required before installation.

  • More preparation means a higher risk of installation errors.

  • Often supplied in smaller sheets, resulting in more seams to finish.

  • The material is stiffer, making detailed finishing more difficult.

European EPDM

European EPDM is manufactured using a cold rolling process and contains no talcum layer, making installation significantly easier.

Benefits include:

  • Ready to install without additional cleaning.

  • Excellent adhesion for adhesives and accessories.

  • Flexible material, ideal for detailing.

  • Available in large single-piece membranes, reducing the number of seams.

  • Fewer accessories required and less risk of installation errors.

Both EPDM types are durable, but the right choice depends largely on the desired ease of installation and finishing quality. If speed, reliability and a clean end result are important, the advantages of talc-free European EPDM become immediately apparent in practice.

Why we choose European EPDM

At Pandser, we deliberately choose European EPDM because it offers clear advantages for both professional installers and experienced DIYers.

The membrane is flexible and easy to install, allowing both large roof surfaces and detailed areas—such as corners, upstands and chimneys—to be finished neatly and efficiently.

Our EPDM membranes are supplied in one continuous sheet wherever possible and are highly stretchable. This reduces the number of seams and significantly lowers the risk of leaks.

In addition, Pandser EPDM has a proven service life of 50 years, thanks to its excellent resistance to UV radiation, ozone and extreme temperatures. The membrane remains flexible under conditions ranging from approximately –50°C to +120°C and requires very little maintenance.

Our EPDM is manufactured according to strict quality and environmental standards and is Cradle to Cradle Certified®, making it an excellent choice for sustainable construction projects and circular building concepts.

The combination of a long service life, safe cold installation and high-quality durability makes European EPDM the most future-proof solution.

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What should you consider when choosing EPDM?

When selecting an EPDM membrane, pay attention to the following factors:

  • Thickness (0.50, 0.75 and 1.00 mm for damp-proofing applications; 1.20 and 1.50 mm for roofing membranes)

  • Elongation and flexibility

  • Available sheet dimensions and installation in one piece

  • Installation method (cold-applied adhesive or self-adhesive)

  • Required accessories

  • Certifications and warranty conditions

Want to know more? We're happy to help.

Our sales team is happy to advise you and tell you more about the possibilities of Pandser EPDM.

Sales Benelux: +31 546 579 581
Export Sales: +31 546 579 582
Purchasing: +31 546 571 342
E-mail: info@berdal.com