EPDM Roofing
The Complete guide
Understanding EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing has been a ‘go-to’ choice for flat and low-slope roof installation projects for almost 60 years. If you are considering an EPDM roof...
This guide is for you.
In this EPDM roofing guide ››
You're going to learn everything you need to know about:
- What EPDM roofing material is made of
- How to choose the right EPDM flat roof system
- EPDM hail resistance & other benefits of EPDM roofing
- How to select an EPDM rubber roofing contractor
- And lots more
Let's get started.
EPDM Roofing Introduction
What is EPDM Roofing?
Ethylene Polypropylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a resilient single ply membrane formulated primarily from propylene and ethylene.
Sometimes called a "rubber roof," EPDM roofs can offer long-term coverage of 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Once installed, a fully adhered EPDM roofing system is highly flexible and remarkably versatile in its uses. However, rubber roofing is most desirable for low-slope roofs or flat commercial roof structures.
Featuring four distinct layers, EPDM roofing material is 100% waterproof and will not pollute rainwater runoff whatsoever.
EPDM Roofing Membrane Details
You may be wondering...
What is EPDM roofing material made of?
Let's take a closer look.
EPDM roofing consists of four layers, making it one of the most durable and long-lasting roof membranes available.
- EPDM Elastomeric Base Layer
- AFR Fire Retardant Middle Layer
- FRM Polyester Fiber Reinforced Top Layer
- Optional White EPDM Roofing Top Layer
Because they include fully adhered vapor barriers and fiber glass and polyethylene reinforcements, an EPDM roofing system can withstand some of the toughest environmental weather-related elements such as high wind and hail storms.
There are several different installation methods. Some EPDM roofing systems are installed using a stone or paver ballast sitting on top of the membrane.
EPDM Roof Membrane Thickness and Color Options
EPDM roof membrane comes in rolled sheets that are wide and long and manufactured in three common thicknesses:
- 45 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
- 60 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
- 90 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
With some manufacturers also offering a 75-mil EPDM membrane.
When considering membrane thickness for single ply roofing installation...
There are several factors your roofer will consider when making a recommendation.
Thickness directly correlates with the material’s resistance to damage.
Those in high-risk zones for flying debris and severe storm conditions will want to choose a robust thickness for their EPDM rubber roofing.
The Benefits of an EPDM Roofing System
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is suitable for just about any roof type, and it’s one of the most cost effective options that promises decades of use. Beyond outperforming competitors, additional advantages of an EPDM roof installation include:
Fast and Easy Installation
EPDM rolls are large and light-weight, allowing them to cover more area in a shorter time for quick installation. This ultimately means a lower bottom line price for customers.
EPDM Roof Repair is Cost-Effective
While structural failures are uncommon, the design of rubber roofing makes repairs somewhat simple compared to other materials such as shingles or metal roofing. Punctures and leaks often only require a few tools and seam tape or seam overlays to fix.
Highly Resilient and Durable
Hail, snow, heavy wind and big trees pose hazards that can result in punctures, leaks and expanding or contracting materials. However, thicker choices such as 90 Mil or 60 Mil EPDM rubber roofing membrane with a ballasted layer and external fleece reinforcement can prevent element-related damage up to 300 times better than thinner or lower quality systems.
Optimal Energy-Efficiency
Regardless of whether your region is cold or warm, there’s a good chance that a EPDM flat roof system can help lower heating and cooling costs. As mentioned previously, warmer climates will enjoy the greatest benefits with white EPDM roofing while cold dwellers or those who use for energy might choose black membranes. An added benefit is that these materials have a superior ozone-resistant rating grade of an ‘A’ in temperatures up to 100º F.
Long-Term Lifespan
Rubber roofing’s longevity depends on three factors: quality installation, climate, and membrane thickness. Roofing installation experts will recommend 45 Mil EPDM rubber roofing membrane in moderate climates and in situations where there’s a low risk of penetrations. While these typically last 12-15 years, by going with a 90 Mil option can get users 25-years or more easily.
Slate Roofing FAQs
How long do slate roof tiles last?
In the absence of catastrophic hail damage, many slate tile roofs can last 100 years, 150 years or longer. In fact, there are multiple examples of slate roofs in Europe that are over 400 years old. Some slate manufacturers offer 100-year warranties on their products.
How do you walk on a slate tile roof?
First, we recommend that you do not walk on a tile roof, unless you are a trained roofing professional with experience in tile roofing. Overlapping roof tiles are prone to break under load. However, if you must walk on a tile roof, we recommend stepping near the edges on overlap areas that are supported directly underneath.
What is meant by fading (weathering) or unfading (semi-weathering) slate?
Unfading (semi-weathering) slate is that which changes very little from its freshly installed color. The color holds fairly consistently through decades, sometimes centuries. Fading (weathering) slate is a slate roof tile that experiences color and shade changes over time. It should be noted that the strength and durability of fading slate is unchanged.
Can you install slate tile on a flat roof?
Routine care is recommended to include periodic cleanings througout the year. The roof should be professionally inspected every 1-3 years. These are best left to pros who can simultaneous inspect the membrane for any signs of compromises like tears, cracks, separating seams, etc.
Is EPDM roof edging or trim necessary?
These additions serve two functions: preventing ponding water and boosting aesthetic appeal. That being said—for all practical purposes EPDM trimming is highly recommended for a long-lasting roof. There are metal, plastic and kerb styles of edging that cloak the fascia that can also hold convenient drip trims that keep patrons dry and improve appearance.