While membrane roofing has long been favored for commercial roofing in Orlando, its application has expanded to residential use in specific regions. EPDM is a popular membrane option for homeowners. However, you might wonder what exactly EPDM roofing is and how it might benefit you.
In this article, we provide a thorough overview of EPDM roofing and highlight the three essential aspects every commercial property owner in Florida should know about it.
What is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) serves as a prevalent synthetic rubber membrane in commercial and medical structures, yet its relevance extends to residential roofing as well. Unlike its predominantly commercial use, EPDM finds a niche in residential applications.
The membrane’s black color contributes to heat absorption, distinguishing it from white membrane roof systems. Consequently, it may not be ideal for areas directly above bedrooms or living spaces. However, this absorption characteristic also mitigates concerns about dirt accumulation, offering an advantage over white materials.
While EPDM lacks the heat-reflective properties of white membranes, its relatively lower susceptibility to dirt buildup ensures a more consistent aesthetic, especially when viewed from interior spaces.
EPDM Roofing for Low-Slope Roofs
Selecting the appropriate roofing material hinges on understanding the specific requirements of your roof’s pitch and style. For low-slope roofs, defined by a pitch below 2:12, conventional materials like asphalt shingles are unsuitable due to the risk of water accumulation. This requires the use of waterproof options like EPDM roofing, ensuring effective protection against leaks and moisture infiltration in flat or low-slope roof configurations. Adhering to installation instructions and building codes, EPDM emerges as a practical choice for maintaining the integrity of your roof in such scenarios.
EPDM Roofing Lifespan
A roof’s durability determines its lifespan and future replacement needs. EPDM roofing offers exceptional durability akin to a bulletproof rubber roof system. Properly installed, a fully adhered 0.060-thickness EPDM roof typically lasts 25 to 30 years. However, this lifespan estimate depends on various factors, including local weather conditions, sun exposure, installation quality, and more. While achieving the full lifespan range isn’t guaranteed, correct installation ensures EPDM roofing performs close to expectations.
EPDM Roofing Costs
Determining the cost of EPDM roofing is essential, albeit challenging due to various cost factors. Typically, EPDM roofing costs are cheaper per square foot for smaller projects compared to larger projects. Factors influencing costs include the type of insulation utilized beneath the EPDM membrane and the size of the roofing area. Thicker insulation involves higher costs compared to fabric insulation, while project size impacts the price per square foot—smaller projects tend toward the higher end of the price range, whereas larger projects see a decrease in cost per square foot.
Reach Out to Us for a Free Quote on Commercial Roofing in Orlando!
If you’re looking for commercial roofing experts in Orlando, you’re in the right place. At American Roofing FL, we install various types of commercial roofing in addition to EPDM roofing.
For more information or a free quote on installation, reach out to us now!
