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EPDM Roofing Guide What You Need to Know

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If you have been looking for a new roofing system for your building, and you have come across EPDM systems, you might be wondering whether this is the right solution for you. This basic guide will look at what this type of system is and some of the benefits that it can offer, along with tips for installation.

What Is EPDM?

EPDM is a popular type of roofing material that has been around for nearly 60 years. Those who have flat and low-sloped roofs, whether commercial or residential, have found that it is a good roofing application that offers some excellent benefits. EPDM is available in different thicknesses (45mm, 60mm, and 90mm) and styles, and it is even available in two different colors – black and white. These colors can help to confer energy savings. Those who live in warm climates might want the white for their roof, as it will reflect the rays of the sun and keep the building cooler, for example.

EPDM Roof

EPDM Roof

Main EPDM Roof Advantages

This type of roofing system has gained popularity because of the many benefits that it can offer. It has the ability to resist extreme temperatures and it holds up well if there is standing water on the roof. It is durable and can last for decades. It tends to be lightweight and has Class A fire resistance. Repairs are simple, and this is an inexpensive option for those who are looking for a quality roofing system.

Types of EPDM Roofing

Many companies today offer EPDM, but there are two main choices when you are choosing this product. You can choose the roofing membranes, which are a popular option for many businesses. There is also a liquid EPDM that could be used. This version tends to be easy to apply, and it has gained in popularity.

Installing the Roofing Membranes

The installation of the membranes is simple, but it will require preparation of the roof before beginning. The roof needs to be extremely clean and free of all dirt and debris. It also needs to be completely dry before beginning. The membranes are then laid out on the roof for about half an hour so wrinkles can be removed. When doing this, they are laid so that 3” of material hangs over the edge of the roof. The membranes are then folded back over themselves.

At this time, the contractors will get the EPDM adhesive ready, and will then apply the adhesive to the roof. The membranes are then folded back into place when the adhesive is tacky but not wet. A push broom can be used to ensure adhesion and to help remove any wrinkles. It is a slow but simple process, and many business owners find that it tends to be best to hire a professional to take care of the installation to make sure it is done correctly.

When it comes to the liquid EPDM, the installation process does tend to be easier, and you may want to do it on your own. You still need to clean the roof thoroughly, and you need to be sure that you have a dry roof before you start. You would then mix up the liquid EPDM with the catalyst to activate it. Then, it can be applied to the roof with a paint roller and a paintbrush, which can help to get into some areas that the roller can’t.

Now that you have a better understanding of what EPDM is and how it is applied, you can make a decision on whether it might be right for your business.

Top EPDM Roof Advantages

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EPDM is one of the most popular types of roofing systems in use today. It can work well for businesses that have flat or low-sloped roofs, but it can also work for residences and outbuildings with these types of roofs. What is it about this type of system that makes it so popular? You will find that there are many EPDM roof advantages that can provide your roof with the protection it needs.

Fewer Seams Provide Better Coverage

The membrane sheets tend to come in large, wide rolls. This means that they will have fewer seams than other types of roofing materials. Fewer seams mean there will be less risk of an issue with those seams, such as leaks.

EPDM Roof

EPDM Roof

Quick to Install

While you will likely want to have a professional take care of the installation, one of the other EPDM roof advantages is the ease of installation. The contractors should be able to get your roof completed in far less time than it would take to install other types of roofing systems. This means less hassle for you.

Lightweight

The membranes are also lightweight compared with other roofing options, such as asphalt. This means there will be less weight on the roof, and it means that getting the materials up onto the roof for installation will be easier. It will also mean that your roof is under less stress than it would be with other types of roofing materials.

Potential Energy Savings

One of the EPDM roof advantages that many people never consider is the energy savings that can be had. This type of material comes in black or white. Since the roof is exposed to the sunlight throughout the day, this can affect how warm the building below gets.

Those who live in environments where it is often hot will want to use white EPDM, as this can reflect some of the light, keeping it cooler. It could mean that you use your AC less. If you are in an environment where you have cold winters, having black EPDM roofing can help to absorb the light from the sun and keep the building warmer, potentially reducing heating costs.

Highly Durable and Long Lasting

Of course, another one of the main reasons to consider using EPDM roofing is because of the durability. It can stand up to the weather and changes in the temperature very well. It won’t start to melt in high temperatures, as you might find with asphalt. It also has the potential to last for decades without needing replacement. If there are any minor issues that occur with the roofing, it tends to be very easy to repair without needing to replace the entire roof.

The Cost

One of the biggest advantages to this type of roofing is the cost. It happens to be the least expensive roofing system that you can install per square foot. The national average for the square foot price, before labor is added, is between $0.80 and $1.60. When compared with other options, you will save more when you use EPDM.

It Has Maintained a Good Reputation for Decades

This type of material has been on the market for a long time, and it has been able to retain its good reputation. It is a time-tested material that you can rely on to help keep your roof as safe as possible.

Of course, these are just some of the biggest EPDM roof advantages. If you would like to have this type of roofing installed, you can see why it can be a great option.