A Guide to TPO Roofing: Everything You need to know

Those searching for a sturdy, protective roof for their commercial building should opt for EPDM roofing—a lightweight, yet sturdy option that stands the test of time.

What Is EPDM Roofing?

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) roofing, also known as rubber roofing, is made of natural gas and oil, in addition to synthetic materials. EPDM is one of multiple flat roofing systems that’s been around since the ’60s and has been gaining popularity ever since. According to the EPDM Roofing Association, there’s more than 20 billion square feet of EPDM roofing installed worldwide.

Rubber roofs are a top choice among business owners, especially considering it’s best suited for commercial buildings with low-slope roofs. The synthetic membranes of EPDM roofs are versatile and offer buyers options that suit their building’s needs. EPDM is available in black or white and has a variation of thickness—45 mil, 60 mil, 75 mil, and 90 mil.

White EPDM is an additional layer on top of existing EPDM layers.

Layers include:

White top layer – The optional white-on-black layer that reflects the sunlight
FRM EPDM – The second layer reinforced with polyester fabric for greater strength
AFR EPDM – The fire-resistant layer
EPDM – The bottom elastomeric layer

Benefits of EPDM Roofing

From cost savings to energy reduction, buyers benefit from a great return on investment when they choose EPDM roofing. Attributes of a rubber roofing system include:

High Durability

When EPDM roofing is installed properly and routinely maintained thereafter, it lasts up to 50 years. Also, it isn’t easily penetrable by hail—ice pellets bounce off of its rubber surface. For buildings located in storm-heavy regions, a thicker membrane, either 75 mil or 90 mil, is recommended. Most importantly, EPDM is Class A fire resistant, giving property owners greater peace of mind.

Energy Efficient

EPDM is available in black or white. The black option is great for colder regions, since the dark surface absorbs heat and keeps the building warmer during the winter. Buyers located in hotter regions should select the white EPDM system. Since the surface is so light, it reflects UV rays back into the environment, keeping the building cooler during the summer. Since an EPDM roof helps control the climate of the building naturally, it leads to lower heating and cooling costs.

Cost Effective

Rubber roofs range between $4 to $6 per square foot. The final price factors in membrane thickness, removal costs, if the existing structure needs preliminary work, roof insulation, the roof’s size and complexity, and the building’s geographic location.

Those who invest in EPDM roofing can enjoy its reduced need for maintenance too. Leaks are rare for rubber roofing, especially if the membrane is thicker or if the roof is ballasted (secured with gravel material). This durability helps building owners save on maintenance costs since EPDM isn’t easily damaged. Buyers save money in the long run as well because of its strength—EPDM outlasts many other roofing systems.

EPDM Withstands Extreme Weather

EPDM rubber roofing is highly regarded for its strength and flexibility. EPDM roofing material withstands temperatures as low as -49 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. Regular roofs typically suffer from thermal shock if they’re not vented properly. Thermal shock is the constant expansion and contraction of the roof’s surface due to temperature changes from season to season. But even in the bitter cold or blazing heat, EPDM won’t soon experience degradation.

Quick and Convenient Installation

Rubber roofing is lightweight, unlike other options that can be heavy and cumbersome. EPDM is manufactured in large sheets or rolls, which cover more area in a shorter amount of time. Also, rubber roofing rolls are available in a range of widths from 10 to 100 feet, which aids in a quicker, easier installation process.

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Installation Process

Because of its easy-to-apply process, EPDM rubber roofing placement is less intensive than other flat roofing systems. Below are the four steps included in the EPDM installation:

Clean the roof – Remove dirt and debris from the roof and make sure it’s free of moisture. Also, ensure the decking is fastened tight.
Lay out membrane – Once the membrane is laid out with at least 3 inches hanging over the roof’s edge, it must sit for 30 minutes to remove wrinkles. Then, the roof’s membrane is folded back over itself to prepare for membrane adhesive application.
Apply adhesive – When the EPDM membrane is wrinkle-free, adhesive is applied to the exposed roof and the back of the membrane, then it dries.
Secure membrane – The membrane is rolled slowly onto the roof where adhesive is applied. By doing so, it reduces the chance for wrinkles. Lastly, using a push broom ensures proper adhesion.

EPDM Roof Repairs

On rare occasions, rubber roofing needs repair. However, an EPDM roof’s repair process isn’t as laborious as other systems. In addition, manufacturing defects are a rarity for EPDM roofs. According to The American Society of Home Inspectors, 95% of roof repairs needed are due to installation errors. For this reason, it’s vital to choose a qualified roofing construction company to complete your roofing project. Also, if repairs are needed due to multiple holes or areas of damage that are too much for you to patch, enlist the help of professional roofing contractors.

Decades of Professionalism Within the Roofing Industry

Regardless of your roofing needs, ROOFCORP has qualified and dedicated professionals to complete the job diligently. To remain among the best in the roofing industry, we pride ourselves on following the highest standards. At ROOFCORP, we educate our customers and remain transparent with them throughout the entire process. We value each partnership we form and aim to provide top-notch service. ROOFCORP believes in a job perfectly done, which requires a streamlined approach, demonstrated finesse, and friendly customer service from the beginning of the project to the end. Give our professionals a call today.

A Guarantee of Quality

Founded in 1985, ROOFCORP has always adhered to the highest standards of workmanship, materials, and professionalism. We are dedicated to safety and training, we never rely on subcontractors, and we stand by every project and every repair.