EPDM Roofing
Explore whether EDPM roofing is the right choice for your industrial or commercial building and learn about its pros and cons with this guide.
What is EPDM Roofing?
Ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM, is a type of synthetic rubber roofing membrane commonly used in commercial roofing and on residential flat or low slope roofs. EPDM roofing offers a variety of benefits, including durability, flexibility and ease of installation, but it’s not the right choice for every structure. Is it the right choice for yours?
EPDM roofing is made from synthetic rubber, and it comes in large sheets or rolls. The membranes are manufactured using a combination of ethylene, propylene and diene monomers camera which are all cross-linked to form a strong, durable synthetic rubber compound.
What Types of Roofs is EPDM Roofing Good For?
EPDM is a good choice for flat or low slope roofs. Often, it’s used on:
- Commercial buildings. Because EPDM is so versatile and works best on buildings that have flat or low slope roofs, it’s a great choice for commercial structures, such as office buildings, retail stores, warehouses and industrial facilities.
- Residential buildings. This type of roofing can be used in residential applications, provided that the residential spaces have flat or low slope roofs. Many people choose to use it for extensions, garages and other structures that have low roof pitches. It provides reliable protection against the elements and has a long lifespan, which makes it a very attractive choice.
- Large roof areas. Extremely large roofs are often well suited for EPDM roofing, because it’s available in wide sheets and rolls. The large size of EPDM membranes in sheets and rolls reduces the number of seams necessary to seal the roof. That helps minimize the risk of water infiltration and simplifies the installation process.
- Irregular roof shapes. Roofs that are irregularly shaped are often well suited to EPDM because it’s so flexible and can be stretched to conform. It’s often used in roofs with irregular or complex designs, and it can be easily manipulated to fit around penetrations, curbs and other roof features, ensuring a seamless and watertight installation.
- Retrofit projects. EPDM roofing is often used for retrofitting existing roofs. That’s because it’s lightweight and versatile, so it’s suitable for installing over an old roof system, eliminating the need for expensive tear offs. Because EPDM can be mechanically attached or fully adhered to the existing roof surface, it provides a new protective layer at a fraction of the cost of a tear-off.
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Does EPDM Roofing Have Any Advantages?
Some of the biggest advantages EPDM roofing has are its:
- EPDM is known for its long-lasting performance. It resists UV radiation, weathering, ozone, and even extreme temperature changes. These membranes can withstand harsh environmental conditions and maintain their integrity for years with proper maintenance.
- EPDM roofing membranes are highly flexible, which makes it easy to install and adaptable to various roof shapes and sizes. Roofers can stretch and manipulate the material to fit complex roof designs and penetrations, which is exactly what you need to protect your structure.
- Ease of installation. Because EPDM is typically easier to install than many other roof types are, it can save you money on labor.
- Energy efficiency. In some cases, EPDM is a great energy efficient option. Usually, these membranes are available in black or white, and white membranes have high solar reflectivity. That means they reflect a significant amount of solar heat, and that reduces the roof’s heat absorption and helps lower cooling costs.
- Low maintenance. EPDM roofing requires minimal maintenance. Naturally, you need to have it inspected regularly for damage, such as punctures and tears, but as long as you repair minor issues and you clean it periodically, you can maintain an EPDM roof’s appearance and performance for years.
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With more than two decades of experience and our dedication to excellent service, you can rely on SEI Roofing to provide you with only the best roofing work around!
Do You Need an EPDM Roof?
If you’re thinking about installing EPDM on your flat or low slope roof, we can help. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced professional who can give you a quote and answer all your questions.
