When it comes to safeguarding your commercial property from the elements, choosing the right roofing material is essential. Advocates of EPDM, claim it’s a versatile, durable, and cost-effective solution for commercial roofing needs. In this article, we want to help you better understand what EPDM is all about and why it’s becoming the top choice for businesses across various industries.
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ToggleWhat exactly is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM roofing, short for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer roofing, is a type of synthetic rubber membrane widely used in the construction industry for waterproofing flat and low-slope roofs. Composed primarily of ethylene, propylene, and a small amount of diene monomer.
EPDM roofing membranes are typically installed in large sheets, either mechanically fastened, fully adhered, or ballasted, providing seamless coverage and effective protection against water ingress. The material’s flexibility facilitates easy installation around complex roof penetrations and irregularities, contributing to cost-effective and efficient roofing solutions.
EPDM Roofing Membrane Details
EPDM roofing membrane is available in two colors: black and white. Black EPDM is the most common and economical option, while white EPDM is more expensive but offers additional benefits such as better reflectivity and energy efficiency. The membrane is typically installed in a single ply, which means it is a single layer of roofing material that is adhered to the roof substrate.
EPDM vs TPO Roofing
EPDM roofing and TPO (thermoplastic olefin) roofing are two of the most popular commercial roofing options. While EPDM roofing is a synthetic rubber membrane, TPO roofing is a single-ply roofing membrane made from a blend of rubber and plastic. Both roofing options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two will depend on a variety of factors such as cost, durability, and energy efficiency.
Why EPDM for Flat Roofing?
EPDM roofing is ideal for flat or low-sloped roofs because it is highly resistant to water, weather, and UV radiation. It is also extremely flexible, which allows it to easily deal with a variety of temperature changes and building movement without becoming brittle, cracking, or breaking. Additionally, EPDM roofing is relatively easy to install and repair, making it a popular choice for commercial roofing projects.
Benefits of Choosing EPDM Roofing Systems
Durability and Longevity
EPDM rubber roofing has become a popular choice for commercial roofing due to its impressive durability and longevity. This roofing material is known to withstand harsh weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and UV radiation.
Weather Resistance
One of the key advantages of EPDM rubber roofing is its exceptional weather resistance. It can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including hail, snow, and heavy rain. EPDM rubber roofs are also resistant to ozone and other environmental factors that can cause damage to other roofing materials.
Material Strength
EPDM roofing is also known for its strength and durability. This roofing material is designed to withstand thermal cycling, which is the process of expanding and contracting due to temperature changes. The material is also resistant to tears, punctures, and other forms of damage.
EPDM rubber roofing has a lifespan of up to 30 years or more, making it an excellent long-term investment for commercial property owners. Its durability and strength make it a reliable choice for commercial roofing applications.
Overall, the durability and longevity of EPDM rubber roofing make it an excellent choice for commercial property owners looking for a reliable and long-lasting roofing solution.
Cost-Effectiveness
EPDM rubber roofing is renowned for its cost-effectiveness, rendering it a favored choice for commercial roofing. The material itself is affordable, and its installation costs are relatively low compared to other roofing options. For the EPDM roofing membrane, you can anticipate spending somewhere between $3.25 and $14.75 per square foot for the material and installation. In most cases, the price will average around $4.50 to $5.50 per square foot. Get a free estimate from our skilled crew for your building.
Low Maintenance Costs
Another advantage of using EPDM rubber for commercial roofing is its low maintenance costs. EPDM roofing is durable and requires little maintenance throughout its lifespan. The material is resistant to weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, hail, strong winds, snow, and ice, making it an ideal choice for commercial buildings in areas with harsh weather conditions. As a result, businesses can save money on maintenance costs over time.
Energy Efficiency
EPDM rubber roofing is also energy-efficient. The material is reflective and can deflect up to 90% of the sun’s rays, thereby reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the building. This property can help decrease cooling costs during the summer months, making it an ideal choice for commercial buildings in warm climates. According to a recent report conducted by Kent State University, EPDM roofing can help reduce energy costs by up to 30%.
Adaptability to Various Roof Designs
One of the biggest advantages of EPDM rubber roofing is its adaptability to various roof designs. Whether the roof is flat, low-sloped, or steep-sloped, EPDM can be used to cover it. This flexibility makes it a great option for commercial buildings with complex roof designs. Plus, EPDM can be cut to fit any size or shape of roof, making it a versatile solution for any roofing project.
Ease of Installation
Another advantage of using EPDM rubber for commercial roofing is its ease of installation. Unlike other roofing materials that require specialized equipment or tools, EPDM can be installed using simple tools and techniques. This means that installation time is reduced, and the cost of labor is lower. Additionally, because EPDM is lightweight, it can be installed over an existing roof without adding extra weight to the building’s structure.
EPDM is also easy to repair, which means that if any damage occurs, it can be quickly fixed without having to replace the entire roof. This not only saves time and money but also reduces the environmental impact of roofing projects.
In summary, EPDM rubber’s versatility and ease of installation make it a popular choice for commercial roofing projects. Its adaptability to various roof designs, combined with its lightweight and easy-to-install nature, makes it a cost-effective and efficient solution for any commercial building.
Eco-Friendly Material
EPDM roofing is an eco-friendly material that offers many environmental benefits. It is resistant to weather extremes, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. This ensures that commercial properties remain well-protected for an extended period, significantly reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.
EPDM roofing also ensures pollution-free rainwater, thereby promoting rainwater harvesting. This can reduce water consumption and water bills by about 40%. The Life Cycle Inventory and Assessment of Low-Slope Roofing Systems in North America study found that EPDM roofing had the lowest impact on smog, acid rain, and global warming potential compared to other roofing systems.
Overall, EPDM roofing is an eco-friendly choice for commercial roofing that offers several environmental benefits. Its recyclability and eco-friendly material make it a responsible choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Fire Resistance
EPDM rubber is a highly fire-resistant material, which makes it ideal for commercial roofing. This material has a Class A fire rating, which means that it is highly resistant to fire and can help prevent the spread of flames in the event of a fire. This is especially important for commercial buildings, which often have large numbers of people inside and valuable assets that need to be protected.
Wind Uplift Resistance
EPDM rubber is also highly resistant to wind uplift, which is the force that can cause roofs to lift off of buildings during high winds. This is because EPDM rubber is a single-ply membrane that is fully adhered to the roof deck, which makes it less likely to be lifted by strong winds. In fact, EPDM rubber has been tested and proven to withstand wind speeds of up to 120 mph.
Overall, EPDM rubber is a safe and reliable option for commercial roofing. Its fire resistance and wind uplift resistance make it a popular choice for commercial buildings of all types and sizes.
EPDM Roofing Pros & Cons
Some of the advantages of using EPDM roofing include its durability, low maintenance requirements, and recyclable properties. On the other hand, some of the disadvantages of using EPDM roofing include its susceptibility to punctures and tears, and the fact that it can be difficult to install in very cold weather.
How long should an EPDM roof last?
The lifespan of an EPDM roof will depend on a variety of factors such as the quality of the installation, the quality of the roofing materials, and the climate in which the roof is located. However, with proper installation and maintenance, an EPDM roof can last up to 50 years.
How to Select an EPDM Roofing Contractor
When opting for an EPDM roofing service provider, it’s crucial to opt for a company renowned for its expertise and sterling reputation within the industry. Equally essential is verifying that the contractor holds proper licensing, insurance, and bonding, alongside a commitment to utilizing premium-grade roofing materials. Poudink Roofing stands out as the prime option for securing top-tier EPDM rubber roofing solutions, offering unparalleled professionalism and quality craftsmanship.