You could not realize it, however you’ve in all probability seen an unsung hero of economic roofing supplies and know-how. It’s referred to as EPDM, and it may make an enormous distinction in vitality prices and constructing upkeep.
What Is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, and it’s an artificial rubber roofing materials that’s continuously used for business roofs. EPDM roofing is sturdy and weatherproof, making it probably the most excellent constructing roofing supplies for business buildings in Colorado. It’s additionally one of many extra sustainable roofing supplies as a result of its two major substances are ethylene and propylene, which make it environmentally pleasant.
Execs and Cons of EPDM Roofing
Choosing the proper roofing materials on your business constructing is without doubt one of the most vital selections you can also make because it impacts practically all different upkeep elements of your constructing.
There are a lot of EPDM roofing advantages, together with:
1. Affordability
EPDM roofing prices rely on a lot of elements, together with the model you choose, situation of your roof, and extra. Typically, EPDM roofing is often cheaper than different frequent roofing supplies like TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) or steel, though materials pricing can fluctuate. It’s additionally normally cheaper to restore EPDM within the occasion of a puncture or different harm.
2. Climate Resistance
Right now’s EPDM supplies are much more sturdy in the case of the type of powerful climate we expertise in Colorado. It might probably face up to robust UV rays, hail, snow, heavy rain, and excessive chilly higher than different membrane supplies.
3. EPDM Roofing Longevity
The know-how behind roofing supplies has come a good distance and gotten higher every year, and EPDM isn’t any exception. You may anticipate excessive EPDM roofing sturdiness, as the fabric can face up to temperatures from -40ºF to over 300ºF. As a result of the rubber it’s made with is extremely versatile, waterproof, and sturdy, you’ll be able to anticipate to get a few years out of your EPDM roof (assuming correct EPDM roofing upkeep).
4. Ease of Set up
EPDM roofing set up is a simple course of. It has fewer seams than conventional roofing, is sturdy sufficient to stroll on, and it may be put in with out restructuring your outdated roof (which makes set up less complicated and sooner). This straightforward set up course of for EPDM roofing additionally helps maintain prices low.
5. Power Effectivity
Relying on the place you reside, your selection of EPDM materials and shade could make it a extremely energy-efficient roofing materials. Denver is the dividing line for darkish versus mild low slope roofing shade decisions as we expertise each excessive and low ranges in temperature and climate. For instance, for those who stay in a cooler local weather, like within the mountains, black EPDM may help you save on heating prices because the black rubber absorbs warmth. And for those who’re in a hotter local weather or a dense city space, it’s possible you’ll select a white EPDM roof to assist deal with the warmth and decrease your cooling prices. White EPDM is a more recent choice to the extra fashionable white TPO in our area.
EPDM can also be eco-friendly, as it may be recycled and requires much less vitality to provide in comparison with different rubber supplies. General, EPDM is an effective instance of a inexperienced roofing resolution.
6. Low Upkeep Necessities
To take care of your EPDM rubber roofing, you need to often clear it and take away any particles or standing water. Upkeep is straightforward cleansing, which means washing solely with water. EPDM doesn’t do nicely with liquid solvent cleaners, as it should harm the fabric. You must also examine your roof for any indicators of injury, comparable to cracks or tears, and restore them promptly. It’s additionally really helpful to have your EPDM rubber roof inspected by knowledgeable roofing contractor yearly.
Cons of EPDM Roofing
There aren’t as many EPDM roofing drawbacks as there are advantages, however listed here are three to remember.
1. Look
EPDM is historically out there in black or white, whereas TPO choices additionally embody grey, tan, and different colours. Whereas black is well the commonest shade, EPDM does promote with a white floor, or laminated prime. That is performed to compete with the TPO and PVC choices and to realize the Cool Roof scores and/or energy-efficiency efficiency results.
2. Shrinkage and Much less Resistance to Punctures
EPDM roofing materials is extremely sturdy, however it may nonetheless change into broken. EPDM rubber is understood to be much less immune to punctures and tears in comparison with different roofing supplies comparable to PVC or TPO. It additionally tends to to shrink and curl over time, which may result in leaks and different points if not correctly put in or maintained. Most frequently, EPDM harm is proscribed to punctures and tears that happen from issues like fallen tree branches, pests, or somebody sporting the improper sneakers whereas strolling throughout it. Thankfully, EPDM is comparatively straightforward and cheap to restore.
3. Upkeep Points if Not Correctly Put in
Roof protrusions, comparable to pipes, vents, and HVAC items create pure vulnerabilities within the integrity of your roof. Making a mistake round these areas can go away your roof weak to leaks that may trigger long-term harm. Seams are additionally an space that may require upkeep, as they will dry out over time. Poor cleansing or priming may also result in failing seams and areas round pipes. Resealing and re-coating are essentially the most viable choices and actually do prolong the lifetime of the roof.
Contemplating an EPDM Roof for Your Enterprise? Belief a Skilled for Your EPDM Roofing Wants
A brand new roof is without doubt one of the costliest investments you can also make to your constructing, but additionally probably the most vital. Whether or not you’re changing or repairing your present business or residential roof, select a trusted, native skilled roofer to get the job performed proper.
Our workforce has all of the expertise wanted to professionally set up your EPDM roof and be sure to’re arrange for many years of success. We’re licensed and educated in the case of EPDM, and we received’t think about the job full till you’re glad.
Give us a name at 303-425-7531 or click on right here to get began in your EPDM roofing challenge.