Which roof membrane may be damaged by oils leaking from a rooftop air conditioning unit?

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a type of rubber roofing membrane that is widely used for commercial flat roofs due to its durability and weather resistance. However, one of its vulnerabilities is its sensitivity to certain chemicals, including oils. When oils leak from rooftop air conditioning units, they can cause deterioration of the EPDM material, leading to potential leaks and reduced lifespan of the roof.

The chemical composition of EPDM makes it susceptible to damage from petroleum-based products. This degradation can manifest as cracking or brittleness over time, compromising the roof's integrity. In contrast, other materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) have better resistance to oils and are often used in environments where such exposure may be a concern. Flat asphalt and built-up roofing materials also exhibit more resistance compared to EPDM in this context. Understanding these material properties is crucial for selecting the appropriate roofing system based on the potential risks associated with the building's HVAC equipment.