Commercial Roofing Primer: What Is EPDM?

As a business owner, you should know about the different types of roofing materials available for your commercial building. While there are several options for commercial flat roofing, EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is popular in Minnesota because it stands up to the state’s cold winters and humid summers. Learn what you need to know about EPDM and how it compares to other flat roofing materials.

What Is EPDM?

EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used in commercial roofing applications. It's composed of two main ingredients, ethylene and propylene, both derivatives of natural gas and oil. The raw materials are processed into a substance that can be sprayed or rolled onto a roof.

EPDM roofing comes in two forms: sheets and liquid. 

• Sheet. The sheet form is the most common and involves laying down large, continuous sheets of EPDM material onto a roof. This form of EPDM takes a few days to install and requires highly skilled installers for a watertight fit.
• Liquid. For small areas such as balconies, bay windows, or other architectural features, liquid EPDM can be applied instead. Liquid EPDM is applied with a spray gun or roller. It is generally quicker to install, and it does not require any special skills or tools.

How Is EPDM Roofing Installed?

EPDM roofing installation involves several steps and varies depending on which product you are using. However, every successful flat roofing project starts with one key step: cleaning. 

The roof surface must be cleaned and prepared to ensure proper adhesion. Any debris left on the surface could damage the integrity of the roof. Once the surface is free from dirt and debris, a primer can be applied to the roof. The primer helps to ensure that the membrane adheres properly. Professional installation is recommended.

One method of EPDM application is ballasting. This method involves placing gravel or stone on top of the membrane to weigh it down and keep it in place. It is generally used for larger roofs, such as those found in factories or warehouses, where a great deal of wind could potentially lift the membrane from the roof surface. 

What Are the Benefits of EPDM Roofing?

There are many benefits of EPDM roofing. These include:

• Durability
• Longevity
• Weather resistance
• UV resistance
• Cost-effectiveness
• Environmentally friendliness

Additionally, EPDM is also flexible and able to adapt to building movement without cracking or tearing.

How Does EPDM Compare to Other Flat Roofing Materials?

While there are pros and cons to every commercial roofing product, EPDM roofing has some advantages over other flat roofing materials like TPO, PVC, and built-up roofs. For example, TPO and PVC are new materials and are still proving their durability, especially during the harsh winters many experience in the Cities, Western Wisconsin, and throughout the Midwest. Plus, built-up roofs, or multiple layers of asphalt and felt, are heavier and require more maintenance than EPDM.

How Do You Maintain an EPDM Roof?

EPDM roofing requires very little maintenance, but regular inspections by a commercial roofing professional are recommended to check for any seasonal damage or pending issues. Typical maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning the roof surface
• Ensuring proper drainage
• Checking for holes or punctures

If there is damage, repairs should be made promptly by a professional roofing contractor. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of the roof and protect against future issues.

If you want to install an EPDM roof, consider contacting a professional roofing contractor, like the pros at Fischer Roofing, to learn more about EPDM and whether it is the right choice for your commercial building. We look forward to helping you soon.