EPDM

EPDM (Ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer) roofing is the industry term for a rubber-based roofing system commonly used on flat or low-pitched roofs. 

 

If you’ve ever heard the term ‘rubber roofing’ in Denver, chances are the roof in question is EPDM-based.

 

EPDM roofs are a great solution for commercial buildings with a roof that has a large surface area, and EPDM roofs are extremely durable, often lasting for up to 30 years or more. 

 

A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors specializes in designing, installing, and repairing EPDM-based roofs. We’ve seen the kind of destruction that Colorado weather can bring to roofs of all kinds, which is why EPDM is such a fantastic choice for commercial property owners. 

What’s So Great about EPDM?

 

The advantages of EPDM-based roofs make them the go-to choice for many of our customers. Among the benefits of roofs built using this durable, flexible rubber compound, some include: 

 

  • Low cost. Because EPDM roofing material is composed of a single-ply sheet of rubber, it’s very inexpensive to manufacture. Business owners like this, as the cost-per-square-foot of EPDM material is often less than $1.00.

  • Easy, fast installation. Industrial-sized rolls of EPDM sheeting range in size from five feet wide to 50 feet wide. Once the best size is determined for the job, installation is as easy as hoisting the rolls to the roof, sizing them to fit into place, and using a watertight adhesive to ensure that the roof is well-protected from the elements.

  • The installation of an EPDM roof is very fast. Many smaller projects can be completed in just a few days.

  • Lightweight construction. Because EPDM sheets are naturally lightweight, the overall roofing system places a much lighter weight load onto the building. In many cases, this eliminates the need for any additional deck reinforcement.

  • Easy repairs. When Colorado hail storms strike or when falling debris does damage to an EPDM roof, fixing it is a snap. The affected area is simply cut out, and a new section of rubber sheeting is installed. Easy!

  • Enhanced durability. As the seasons change, fluctuations in temperature will cause expansion and contraction of virtually all building materials. And, as commercial buildings ‘settle’ after their initial construction, stressors are put onto the roof.

  • An EPDM roof is able to flex and adapt to these changes, extending its life and providing decades of protection for the building. 

Other EPDM Considerations

 

While there is a lot to love about EPDM roofing in Denver, it’s not the best fit for every roof in Colorado. At A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors, our team has been professionally trained to identify whether or not a roof could benefit from an EPDM installation, or if another type of roofing system altogether would be best. 

 

Aesthetic

 

One reason why some of our customers shy away from EPDM is because of its aesthetic, or ‘look’. Unlike shingled or cedar shake roofing, the look of EPDM is very industrial, and there is no patterning that can be used to complement the design of a building. This may not be a big deal for commercial building owners whose tenants or customers won’t ever see the roof. For others, however, the look of EPDM can be a dealbreaker. 

 

Heat Absorption/Trapping

 

Because most EPDM sheeting is black, the resulting roof can be especially heat-conductive. This means that, in the warmer months, the EPDM roof can contribute to higher cooling costs. However, there are some lighter shades of EPDM available, which can reduce this effect by as much as 30%.

Puncture Prone

 

A sheet of rubber that is only 1/16 inch thick will do a great job of keeping water out, but it can also puncture fairly easily. This isn’t the case with stone, shingle, or wood shake roofing.

If your roof isn’t a fit for EPDM, the roofing professionals at A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors will be able to recommend an alternative solution. 

A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors Knows EPDM!

 

When low-pitched or flat roofs in Colorado need a durable, weather-resistant roofing solution that won’t break the bank, A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors is here to help. 

 

When you choose us for your EPDM roof installation or repair, you’ll be working with a company with an established track record that dates back to 1994. 

 

Every EPDM roof project we take on goes through our three-step process:

 

  • On-site roof evalution

  • Project quote

  • Installation and final commissioning

We are 100% committed to the full satisfaction of all of our customers, and we make it a point to keep you updated on the progress of your roofing job every step of the way. 

 

To schedule your on-site evaluation with an A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors roofing technician, contact us today!