Rubber roofing, known as Ethelyne-Propelene-Diene-Monomer (EPDM) in the construction industry, was first used as a roofing membrane in the 60s and 70s. It was developed by the DuPont company in the 1950s to meet the demand for rubber products. This material has many other uses including bike inserts, weather stripping, hoses, belts, and more.
Although it has been used on flat or low-slope roofs for decades, it has some drawbacks and often requires maintenance and repairs. If it is time to replace your rubber roof, it is typically best to use another single-ply roofing material such as TPO or PVC.If you need rubber roofing services, give us a call today at (801) 907-5177 to consult with a local roofing company.
Types of Rubber (EPDM) Roofing Services We Offer
Pros and Cons of Rubber (EPDM) Roofing Systems
Rubber roofing systems have been installed on flat or low-slope roofs for decades. While they have some benefits, there are additional points that are often missed about this type of roofing:
- Energy Efficiency: White EPDM products have solar reflective abilities, however, black is more commonly used and heavily absorbs radiant heat.
- Durability: The durability of EPDM roofs is often promoted as an advantage but rubber roofs puncture fairly easily when compared to other single-ply roofing systems. If the EPDM is black, the heat absorption also contributes to accelerated deterioration due to expansion and contraction that leads to separation of the materials.
- Lifespan: The lifespan of rubber (EPDM) roofs has been a topic of debate in the roofing industry for decades. We have found that although they are promoted as having a lifespan as high as 50 years, they typically age out around 15 to 20 years if regularly maintained.
If you have questions, or would like an evaluation of your rubber roof, give us a call at (801) 907-5177 to discuss options for your rubber roofing needs today.
Choosing the Right Rubber Roofing Contractor
Deciding which rubber roofing company you are going to trust with your home or commercial space is a big decision. Here are some things to consider when choosing a roofer:
Are they licensed and insured?
How long have they been in business?
Do they guarantee their work?
Do they offer manufacturer labor and material warrantees?
Can they show certificates of training?
ReRoofIt is fully licensed and insured.
13 years and counting.
We provide 5-year workmanship guarantees on every job.
Warrantees through all the top roofing material providers.
Check out our certifications here.
Salt Lake County Service Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Rubber (EPDM) roofing systems have several disadvantages even though they have been used in the roofing industry since the 1960s. They are vulnerable to punctures, tearing at seams, fading over time, absorb large amounts of heat, and can often fail to keep water out over any extended period of time.
Yes, a rubber (EPDM) roof can be coated as long as the coating product used has high adhesion and the material has been prepped properly for bonding. We find that 100% silicone coating products are more than adequate when applying a coating system on a rubber roof.
Yes, and no. While it is generally possible to walk on a rubber roof, there is always a safety component when making this determination and foot traffic should be avoided if possible.
No, standing water is never good for a roofing system. When water pools on a rubber roof the potential for leaks increase and wearing of the material increases as well.
Give us a call today at (801) 907-5177 to schedule an inspection for your rubber EPDM roof or request a free estimate by clicking on the button below.