RubberGard EPDM from Elevate chosen to waterproof modular school in the UK

The Abbey Farm Educate Together (ET) Primary School in North Swindon is a modular school designed and built by UK offsite construction specialist Reds10. Net zero carbon in design, the school includes several sustainability features such as air source heat pumps, photovoltaics, mechanical and natural ventilation, aluminium door and window frames made from recycled materials, floorboards with 50% recycled content, and timber cladding. 

The use of modern methods of construction (MMC) is rapidly rising across the UK, particularly in the education sector, with the aim of building schools faster and more cost effectively while delivering significant environmental benefits. 

MMCs involve innovative techniques such as modular construction, prefabrication, and 3D printing. These methods enhance efficiency, reduce construction time, and ensure high quality.

An EPDM single-ply membrane, such as RubberGard EPDM, is one of the most effective roofing solutions for modular buildings. Made from synthetic rubber, it delivers several benefits throughout the construction phase, as well as during the buildings’ service life.  

To ensure the highest quality standards, each sheet of RubberGard EPDM is cut to size and applied to the prefabricated module in a controlled factory setting. As the membrane is single-ply, it is lightweight. This enables it to be installed quickly and easily. 

Safety conditions are also enhanced, as RubberGard EPDM is applied without the need for any hot works or open flames. The membrane is fully adhered to each building module using bonding adhesive. Any other roofing details are completed in the factory, using Elevate’s self-adhesive QuickSeam range of flashing accessories. This process allows most of the roofing works to be completed before the modules are delivered to site, avoiding weather-related delays and minimising on-site installation times.

RubberGard EPDM is available in large panel sizes, which means the roof of each modular unit can be easily covered with one piece, reducing the amount of joints and waste. EPDM is also a chemically inert material that does not contain any plasticiser. When installed correctly, it can achieve a service life of more than 50 years. 

The membrane’s flexibility enables it to return to its original shape and performance after severe weather and makes it resistant to UV, heat, hail and building movements. Minimal maintenance is required and, if needed, the EPDM membrane can be easily repaired using very simple tools, even after several years of exposure.

Should the building need to be altered or expanded in the future, modular units covered with RubberGard EPDM can be easily dismantled, relocated and sealed back together again, even decades after their initial construction.

EPDM is the most future-proof roofing solution when it comes to sustainability, performance and design freedom. Learn more about the role it played within this project and many others by discovering its benefits.