Why You Should Consider EPDM Roofing

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) is a synthetic rubber commonly used as a flat roofing material. The common usage is understandable, given the numerous benefits of EPDM. Below are some of these advantages.

Energy Efficiency

EPDM roofing is efficient—if you pick the right one. Roofing manufacturers produce two main types of EPDM roofing materials: black and white. Choose the black variety if your house is in a predominantly cold area. Black materials absorb heat, and a black EPDM may absorb enough sunlight to keep your house warm with minimal effort from heating appliances.

On the other hand, white EPDM is suitable for areas with relatively high temperatures. The white materials reflect most of the energy incident on it. The reflection lowers your cooling system's contribution to your home's comfort.

Weather Resistance

Weather elements are some of the greatest roof threats, especially flat roofs. Moreover, you can only mitigate against weather damage but cannot avoid it completely. Luckily, EPDM has good weather resistance qualities. For example:

• The material does not suffer ultraviolet (UV) damage as readily as others.
• EPDM is water resistant, protecting the inner roof structures from water damage.
• EPDM remains stable at high or low temperatures.
• Sleet and snow do not easily damage the material.

Precipitation and UV rays are the greatest roof threats among weather elements. Therefore, the fact that they don't easily damage EPDM is great.

Elasticity

EPDM is elastomeric, meaning it can stretch and return to its initial condition without permanent damage. Think of elastomeric as a rubber-like quality. This EPDM characteristic is great since it can absorb and deflect external forces without damage.

For example, hailstones can crack asphalt shingles—and you must replace the damaged pieces after the storm. However, hailstones do not create permanent deformations on the elastomeric EPDM.

Low Maintenance

All roofs, including those with high-quality materials and first-rate workmanship, require maintenance. However, some roofs require less maintenance than others. EPDM roofs belong to this category—the roofs are relatively low maintenance. Here are some maintenance practices to carry out for your EPDM roof:

• Periodically inspect the roof for visual cues of physical damage.
• Inspect the roof for visible damage after strong storms.
• Ensure the drainage channels are adequate and clear.
• Regularly clean the roof.

Moreover, you can easily repair and restore an EPDM roof after damage. Many people successfully managed to patch and maintain their EPDM roofs for years.

Durability

EPDM is one of the most durable roofing materials available. Many of the above benefits contribute to the material's durability. You can easily get decades of service from your EPDM roof. In fact, the seams are more likely to fail than the continuous EPDM surfaces.

The installation quality is a great determinant of the material's longevity. Other critical factors include roof maintenance and EPDM membrane thickness. Thick membranes are more durable than thinner ones. The installation or attachment method determines EPDM's elasticity. However, the material still stretches much more than other roofing materials.

Affordability

According to thisoldhouse.com, EPDM is the least expensive single-ply roof membrane. EPDM affordability is a big deal for two main reasons. First, roof installation or replacement is one of the most expensive ventures, so anything lowering costs cost is welcome.

Secondly, property owners pay for roofing installation per square foot. Thus, using EPDM on a large roof can save a tidy sum.

Recyclability

Lastly, EPDM is great for the environment since it doesn't have to end up in landfills. The material is entirely recyclable. When you replace your EPDM roof, recyclers can recycle it to make other items, such as rubber mats.

Diversified Roofing has an extensive experience with a wide variety of roofs. We handle commercial and residential roof installations, repairs, and maintenance. Contact us for a free quote on any roofing service you need.