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Hypalon
What is Hypalon?
A synthetic rubber membrane material (chlorosulfonated polyethylene) used in construction for roofing applications, pond liners, and waterproofing systems, known for its exceptional durability, UV resistance, chemical resistance, and long service life in harsh environmental conditions.
Description
Hypalon is a synthetic rubber membrane material (chlorosulfonated polyethylene) used in construction for roofing applications, pond liners, and waterproofing systems, known for its exceptional durability, UV resistance, chemical resistance, and long service life in harsh environmental conditions. This premium membrane material was developed by DuPont and has become the gold standard for applications requiring superior performance and longevity. Hypalon membranes can withstand extreme temperatures, UV exposure, ozone, and chemical exposure while maintaining flexibility and waterproof integrity for decades.
The primary purposes include providing long-lasting waterproof roofing membranes, creating durable pond and water feature liners, offering superior chemical-resistant waterproofing, withstanding extreme weather and UV exposure, providing flexible membranes that accommodate building movement, delivering cost-effective long-term performance, and supporting sustainable construction through extended service life.
Composition involves chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) polymer base, stabilizers for UV and ozone resistance, plasticizers for flexibility and workability, reinforcement materials for strength and puncture resistance, and specialized additives for specific performance characteristics.
FAQs
What is Hypalon?
Hypalon is a synthetic rubber membrane material (chlorosulfonated polyethylene) used for roofing, waterproofing, and pond liners, known for exceptional durability and resistance to UV, chemicals, and harsh conditions.
What are the main uses of Hypalon?
Main uses include single-ply roofing membranes, pond and water feature liners, below-grade waterproofing, plaza deck systems, and industrial containment applications.
How long does Hypalon last?
Hypalon membranes typically last 20–30+ years with proper installation and maintenance, often outlasting other membrane materials due to superior UV and chemical resistance.
What are the advantages of Hypalon?
Advantages include exceptional UV and ozone resistance, superior chemical resistance, excellent flexibility, outstanding puncture resistance, proven longevity, and environmental sustainability.
How is Hypalon installed?
Installation methods include mechanical attachment, ballasted systems, fully adhered applications, and heat-welded seams, depending on the specific application and conditions.
Is Hypalon better than EPDM?
Hypalon typically offers superior UV resistance, chemical resistance, and longevity compared to EPDM, though at higher initial cost, making it ideal for demanding applications.
What maintenance does Hypalon require?
Maintenance includes periodic inspection, cleaning, minor repairs with compatible materials, and professional assessment, with minimal requirements due to its durability.
Fun Fact
Fun Fact: Hypalon was originally developed by DuPont in the 1950s for military applications and was used on the Apollo spacecraft heat shields! The material is so durable that some of the first Hypalon roofs installed in the 1960s are still performing today, over 60 years later. Hypalon can withstand temperatures from -65°F to 300°F and is used in everything from inflatable boats to chemical plant linings. Interestingly, Hypalon is self-extinguishing and won’t support combustion, making it one of the safest roofing materials available!
Links
CSI Code
07 53 00
NAHB Code
730







