With the various roofing options in the market, choosing the best system for your home can be challenging. You should not base the choice of a suitable roofing system solely on price. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the different roofing systems. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer(EPDM) is one of the most popular roofing options. Read on for 13 pros and cons of EPDM roofing.
EPDM roofing pros
1. Affordable
If you are looking for a roofing solution while working under a tight budget, you should consider purchasing EPDM roofs. EPDM roofing is cheaper than other types of roofing materials.
2. Easy to install
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer roofs do not require specialized tools or heat welding to install. This makes the installation process easy and fast compared to other types of roofing materials. Consider hiring professional contractors, such as Landmark Roofing, to make the installation process more straightforward.
3. EPDM roofs are easy to repair
Even with the best care and maintenance, household features and appliances often get damaged and require repairs. You should choose a roofing solution that is less stressful and easy to repair. To repair a damaged EPDM roofing, you should:
- ⬥ Clean the damaged surface to remove dirt, debris, and dust particles that may deter the rubber bonding process
- ⬥ Use the right primer to prime the surface
- ⬥ Use duct tape to cover the surface
Consider hiring a professional contractor to repair the EPDM roof in case of extensive damage.
4. Lightweight
EPDM is one of the most lightweight roof systems in the market. It weighs two pounds per square foot or less. This means that you do not have to spend thousands of dollars to reinforce your roof deck to install EPDM rubbers. All you need to do is strip off the roof of any distractions, apply adhesive, and roll out the roofing.5.
5. Long lasting
Roofing is an expensive investment, so you should opt for a system that can serve your home for many years to come. EPDM roofing is quite long-lasting and could benefit your home for 20 years or longer.
6. Energy efficient
Some EPDM roofs come in an attractive white color and can easily be attached to Polyiso insulation. When appropriately installed, EPDM rubber can help reduce energy costs significantly as the material helps keep heat out during summer and prevent heat loss in colder weather.
7. Eco-friendly
If you are looking for an environment-friendly roofing option, you should consider investing in Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer roofs. These roofs are made of sawdust, worn-down insulation, slate dust, and rubber tires which are 100% recyclable. They also require less energy to produce, making them an eco-friendly option.
8. Fire-resistant
EPDM rubber is resistant to fires. It is also made of fire retardant compounds that slow down fire progress.
EPDM roofing cons
9. Dents your home’s curb appeal
If you are looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, EPDM roofing may not be your best choice. This is because the roofs are mainly black, and when rolled out, they tend to appear like the stretched inner parts of a tube, distracting from your home’s curb appeal. The EPDM roofing color may also fade with time.
10. Vulnerable to damage
EPDM roofing is delicate, so the seams’ adhesive can easily break as the system contracts and expands with temperature changes. The roof can also puncture due to falling leaves.
11. Require professional installation
Although EPDM roofing is easy to install, you need to hire a professional contractor who has experience working with flat and rubber roofs to avoid damage. This could increase the cost of installing the roofs significantly, not to mention that it may be challenging to find a reliable contractor.
Since EPDM roofs are easy to erect, you are more likely to encounter quack individuals who pose as experienced contractors offer to install the roofs. This could lead to permanent damage to your property and a dent in your savings.
12. Leakages
Your EPDM roofing is vulnerable to leakages that could lead to permanent damage to your property since leaks may be challenging to notice. EPDM roof leakages are often caused by protrusions such as HVAC units, vents, or pipes, especially when installed by an inexperienced contractor. Leaks on your roof could also result in expensive repairs and reduced EPDM roof lifespan.
13. Corrosion
When exposed to petroleum-based products such as lubricating oil, wax, bitumen, diesel fuel, and gasoline, your EPDM roofing corrodes.
Endnote
Are you still deliberating whether to purchase EPDM roofing systems or not? Consider the above pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
