Rubber EPDM roofing has seen a huge boost in its appeal over the past few years and for good reason. It lasts decades longer than other types of roofing, it more economical to install, and there’s very little doubt that EPDM is one of the most durable options on the market. If you’re looking to install a new roof on your home, business, now is the time to ditch tradition and upgrade to the future of roofing. Before you decide, though, you might want to know a few quick facts about EPDM roofing. Let’s get started.
What EPDM Stands For
EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, is a roofing material made of true rubber. Its two main ingredients are ethylene and propylene, which lend the E and P of its name. These two compounds are derived from petroleum, making it a highly durable and robust synthetic rubber roof coating. After applying an EPDM roof, you can easily get forty to fifty years of life, meaning you may never have to have a new roof installed.
Why EPDM Has Become So Popular
One thing you need to know about EPDM roofing is that it’s one of the most durable roofing materials around. Homeowners, business owners, contractors, roofers, and architects alike advocate for this style of roof. It has been shown to withstand decades of real-world wear and tear from harsh weather, high and low temperatures, age, and sun exposure. Whether you live in a desert with year-round sun exposure or a coastal area with regular thunderstorms, an EPDM roof will stand out to the elements far longer than any other competitor. Even if your home suffers a fire, this type of roofing can help slow the fire’s spread; that’s how durable this roofing is.
EPDM is a Greener Option
EPDM roofs come a variety of colors, but the most common are white, grey, and black. Depending on your climate, the color you pick can save you a lot on energy consumption. For cold climates, grey and black roofs absorb the sun’s rays, heating your property and lowering your heating bill. For hot climates, a white roof will reflect the sun’s rays, keeping your building cool and lowering your air conditioning bill.
EPDM Won’t Blow Away
Particularly for residential homes, one of the biggest risks to a roof is the wind. When thunderstorms come blowing through in the summer, many homes lose shingles to the high-force winds. Fortunately, EPDM roofs don’t have this problem. Because they sit flush to the surface, there’s nothing to blow away. For this reason, EPDM roofs are commonly used on recreational vehicles. They’re durable, long-lasting, and won’t blow away as you drive down the road.
EPDM Roofs Come in Two Formats
Currently, you can buy EPDM roofs in one of two ways—sheets or liquid coating. The traditional format has you layout and glue down sheet panels of EPDM to the roof. This method covers more area faster, but you’ll first have to do more prep work, and you’ll be left with a roof with visible seams. A liquid EPDM option produces a uniformly smooth roof, and it can be applied quickly without much preparation work. Consider your needs and pick the option best suited to your roof.
Conclusion
EPDM roofs have found new popularity for obvious reasons. They last nearly a lifetime, will save you money on heating and cooling, and can stand up to just about any type of weather. Before you install a new roof, we highly recommend considering an EPDM roof.
