Rubber Strip Types Explained: Nitrile, EPDM & Neoprene Compared

When it comes to choosing the right rubber strip, the material matters. Different rubbers have different strengths — and picking the wrong one can lead to early failure, contamination, or extra costs down the line.

In this quick guide, we break down three of the most commonly used materials: Nitrile, EPDM, and Neoprene, and where each one works best.

Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

Best for: Oil and fuel resistance

Nitrile is ideal for environments where the strip will come into contact with oils, fuels, or hydraulic fluids. It’s commonly used in garages, workshops, and factories. It’s not ideal for outdoor exposure though, as it can degrade in sunlight over time.

EPDM Rubber

Best for: Weather resistance and outdoor use

EPDM is excellent at handling sunlight, ozone, steam, and general weathering. You’ll see it used in roofing, outdoor seals, and drainage applications. It’s not suited for oils or fuels, but perfect where temperature extremes or moisture are a concern.

Neoprene Rubber

Best for: Versatility and general-purpose use

Neoprene is a solid all-rounder. It offers decent resistance to oils, heat, and weather — so it’s often used in gaskets, door seals, and marine environments. If you’re unsure which to go for, Neoprene is often a safe bet for mixed-use spaces.

Need a Custom Width or Thickness?

At Crystal Rubber, we cut to size and supply a range of rubber strip grades and formats. Whether you need a one-off gasket or hundreds of metres of continuous strip, we’ll help you find the right solution for the job.

Not sure which rubber type is right? Contact us and we’ll talk you through the options.