EPDM Pros and Cons

EPDM rubber is becoming an increasingly popular, eco-friendly roofing option. Not only does it make for a great and straightforward roofing solution, but you are also doing your part to support the environment by installing an EPDM roof.

Before you jump in and commit to this easy-to-install solution, it is important to know the basics. What is EPDM? As the name implies, the material is made up of Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer – a type of rubber that is also used to seal your car doors and windows. But why should you use it on your roof, and what are some of the pros and cons? Let’s look at rubber roofing material.

The Pros of EPDM

It is made of recycled materials

EPDM is made of several recycled products, like recycled tires, sawdust, and slate dust. If you care about your environmental footprint, this will make EPDM that much more appealing. By choosing this product, you are comforted in knowing that you are not creating any more waste (at least when it comes to your roof).

It is affordable

Homeowners will know that replacing a roof is an expensive exercise. With EPDM, you are looking to spend approximately $0.80 per square foot, making it one of the most affordable options on the market.

Lightweight, watertight, and easy to install

The simplest way to install a rubber roof is to remove all the tiles on the existing roof, apply an adhesive, and roll out the new roofing material. This means that there are very few seams that lead to dreaded leaks further down the line.

Fire resistant

As an extra boon, EPDM roofs are almost entirely fire-resistant. In fact, it can even slow the spread of fire, and some insurance companies offer you a reduced premium if you have a rubber roof.

The material is durable

Your rubber roof will last for years to come. If you need to make repairs, it is also easy to do it. Rubber is also not easily damaged by UV rays.

The Cons of EPDM

Not as appealing as traditional roofing options

Let’s face it, shingles are attractive, and a rubber roof simply doesn’t look quite as visually pleasing as their traditional counterparts. EPDM is more utilitarian, so is better suited to sheds and garages, otherwise, it may affect your home’s curb appeal.

Overheating

While rubber does not get damaged by UV rays, as expected, it also doesn’t absorb heat. This in turn will cause the rooms in the house to heat up. This is, of course, ideal in winter, but not so much for the warmer summer months. Lighter rubbers can help circumvent the problem.

Prone to punctures

Indeed, EPDM roofs are easy to repair, but they are also easy to puncture from fallen branches. Ideally, rubber roofs are suited away from big trees, and should not be walked on, as far as possible.

As we’ve seen, rubber roofs are the ultimate eco-friendly solution, and there are multiple reasons why they will be a great fit for your home, if you are aware of some of the minor drawbacks.

If you are in the market for an affordable, eco-friendly, and durable roof, contact our team of flat roofing experts at Wolfenburg for a free quote. Our roofing specialists are here to advise you on the best option for your home.