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ClassicBond EPDM Russ Tape & Base Fixings
ClassicBond EPDM Russ Tape & Base Fixings
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Mechanical Securement Strip for EPDM Rubber Roofing - With Seam Plates Included - Sold per Linear Metre
ClassicBond PS RUSS Strip (Reinforced Universal Securement Strip) is a pressure-sensitive reinforced EPDM securement strip used to mechanically fix EPDM membranes at critical angle changes and perimeters.
Over time, all non-reinforced EPDM membranes naturally attempt to shrink. RUSS mechanically secures the membrane to the deck at upstands and transitions, preventing movement and eliminating tenting or pull-back at wall abutments.
Why RUSS Is Required on EPDM Roofs ▸
EPDM is highly elastic - but like all single-ply membranes, it will gradually try to shrink over time.
Without proper securement:
- Membrane can tent at upstands
- Wall abutments can pull away
- Stress can build at angle changes
RUSS mechanically anchors the membrane at these vulnerable areas while still allowing the EPDM to accommodate movement through elongation.
Where RUSS Strip Is Used ▸
ClassicBond PS RUSS is designed for:
- Wall upstands
- Parapet walls
- Angle changes
- Perimeter securement
- Around skylight upstands
It is suitable for:
- Fully adhered systems
- Ballasted systems
- Mechanically fastened systems (with correct detailing)
On roofs over 100m², additional perimeter securement is strongly recommended due to increased impact of shrinkage.
Product Construction ▸
ClassicBond PS RUSS Strip consists of:
- A 152mm (6″) wide reinforced EPDM strip
- Nominal membrane thickness of 1.14mm
- A factory-applied 76mm (3″) pressure-sensitive EPDM splice tape laminated along one edge
- Roll length: 30.5 metres (100′)
The reinforced EPDM provides structural strength, while the pressure-sensitive tape bonds to the primed membrane surface.
What’s Included ▸
This listing includes:
- ClassicBond PS RUSS Strip (6″ × 30.5m roll)
- 2″ Seam Fastening Plates
- Sufficient seam fasteners to secure plates at 300mm centres (3–4 per metre)
⚠️ Fasteners must be used with appropriate substrate screws (sold separately where required). Screw length is determined by the depth of the roof build-up. Screws should be long enough to penetrate the bottom deck of your build-up with appropriate clearance.
Installation Overview ▸
- Position RUSS horizontally or vertically at the angle change
- Install seam fastening plates 3–19mm from the angle change using every other pre-marked fixing point
- Clean and prime the membrane surface with ClassicBond EPDM primer
- Allow primer to flash off
- Remove release liner and bond the membrane to the RUSS adhesive
- Roll thoroughly with a 50mm seam roller
Primer must be used - adhesive will not bond to dusty or unprimed surfaces.
A Roofer’s Perspective ▸
RUSS isn’t optional detailing for us - it’s structural securement.
Most membrane pull-back problems happen because angle changes weren’t mechanically fixed. Once shrinkage tension builds, the membrane will move unless it’s anchored.
RUSS controls that movement and protects the integrity of the roof long-term.
While it's true, 90% of roofs won't fail without it, for us, peace of mind and a proper mechanical fix at upstands outweigh the extra cost every time.
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