EPDM is particularly suited to flat or low-sloped roofs in commercial construction. One of the main reasons for EPDM’s popularity is its ease of installation and maintenance. EPDM roofs cost about 10% less than TPO roofs on average. It has a cleaner appearance and is much easier to install than mod-bit (modified bitumen).
What is an EPDM roof?
EPDM is a rubber roof – an easier way to understand a confusing acronym. Although EPDM is primarily a synthetic rubber, its two primary ingredients (ethylene and propylene) can be produced using natural gas and oil. In addition to black EPDM, white EPDM is also available.
Due to its sheet installation, it tends to have fewer seams, which means fewer leaks over time. A synthetic rubber material is almost impossible to burn, and it can even slow down or even stop a fire from spreading. It is therefore less expensive to install, has a lower insurance premium, and lasts longer than the most common type of roof it replaces (tar and pitch).
How do you apply EPDM Roofing?
EPDM has an easy installation process, resulting in lower labor costs for you, the customer, and longer warranties.
A half-inch polyisocyanurate board is laid over the existing roof (as insulation cover sheets). These boards are fastened over the entire roof deck. Normally, cover sheets are rated according to their “R” values. The EPDM roofing material or “rubber membrane” is rolled out and folded once all the insulation cover sheets have been laid in place. In order to secure the roofing membranes, a bonding adhesive is applied.
A good seal can only be achieved by working slowly and evenly with the adhesive. You might see the roofing contractor using a push broom to smooth the EPDM rubber and eliminate small imperfections. This process is repeated once the roof is complete! Normal operations are not disrupted or impacted by blow-torches.
How long do rubber membranes last? How long should an EPDM roof last?
When properly installed, EPDM roofs can last for up to 50 years, and they usually require only minor repairs after 22 to 35 years. In the flat roofing industry, “forever roofs” are widely recognized. The warranty provided by EPDM manufacturers covers labor and material, but the work must be installed by a certified installer AND inspected by the manufacturer.
You will be charged an additional fee for this roof inspection, but it comes with a full warranty and guarantee for your new rubber roof. In addition, to qualify for a warranty, they must use 100% of the same manufacturer’s products – no combinations are allowed. EPDM roofing systems are less likely to be damaged heavily during storms, but it can happen. All Star Roofing is happy to provide hail damage roof repair services throughout San Antonio for both EPDM, TPO, and Bitumen roofing systems.
The manufacturing process of EPDM also uses very little energy, and it is 100% recyclable. Besides being long-lasting, this material can be reused easily, making it a popular green material.