Damage & Failure
What is Splitting?
Roofing Glossary · Damage & Failure
Definition
The formation of longitudinal cracks in a flat roof membrane due to thermal cycling, substrate movement, or loss of plasticizer in aged materials. Splits are distinguished from punctures by their linear, elongated nature following stress lines in the membrane. On aged EPDM and modified bitumen roofs, splitting at seams and flashings is a primary failure mode requiring immediate repair or replacement.
Related Roofing Terms
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Membrane FailureThe degradation or rupture of a flat or low-slope roofing membrane system resulting in water infiltr...
→EPDMEthylene Propylene Diene Monomer — a synthetic rubber roofing membrane available in black or white, ...
→Modified BitumenA factory-reinforced asphalt roofing membrane modified with APP (atactic polypropylene) or SBS (styr...
→PondingThe accumulation of standing water on a flat or low-slope roof surface that remains for more than 48...
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