SpecTips: Reinforced EPDM – A Sustainable Roof Membrane Solution

Carlisle’s Black Sure-Tough™ Reinforced EPDM – Now with 5% Post-Consumer Recycled Content

Architects and specifiers play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable building practices, and the careful selection of construction materials can significantly impact a project's environmental footprint. As the world increasingly focuses on eco-friendly solutions, specifying sustainable products becomes paramount. Sustainable choices not only align with the environmental goals set forth by the American Institute of Architects’ 2030 Actionable Climate Strategy but also contribute to reducing the construction industry's overall environmental impact.

One key area of focus is roofing membranes, where innovations in recycled content and recyclability can make a substantial difference. Choosing a roofing material that was manufactured using recycled content, has a long service life, and is recyclable at the end of its life supports the circular economy, minimizes resource depletion, and addresses environmental challenges such as landfill waste and carbon emissions.

Carlisle is proud to introduce a groundbreaking enhancement to its Sure-Tough black EPDM membrane, now featuring an impressive 5% post-consumer recycled content. This addition, coupled with the existing 5% pre-consumer recycled content, positions Carlisle's Sure-Tough as one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly membranes in the commercial roofing industry.

The post-consumer content is provided by recycled carbon black harvested from tire waste. By opting for this environmentally conscious solution, you contribute to substantial environmental benefits during the manufacturing process, including reduced water consumption, lower electricity use, decreased CO2 emissions, and a positive step toward addressing global tire disposal issues. Beyond its sustainable inception, the membrane is easily recyclable at the end of its long service life, offering a complete lifecycle approach to sustainability. For architects and specifiers seeking to minimize their building's environmental impact while enjoying the performance benefits of industry-leading EPDM membranes, Carlisle's Sure-Tough is a definitive roof material choice.

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SPECTIP
- Add product and installation procedures to the Division 7 Section for EPDM in Section 07523.
- Include Carlisle’s Sure-Tough EPDM as the basis of design in Part II – Products or include a post-consumer recycled content requirement of 5% for the EPDM Membrane in Part I – General.

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Additional info links
Sure-Tough EPDM Roofing Systems Brochure 
Sure-Tough EPDM Reinforced Membrane Product Data Sheet
Rooftop Recycling Rebate Incentive Program Information Sell Sheet