Are you tired of high energy bills and looking for a way to reduce costs while also being environmentally conscious? EPDM roofing is the answer.
Not only is it a durable and long-lasting option for your roofing needs, but it also boasts energy-efficient properties that can save you money in the long run.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the specific ways EPDM roofing can improve your building’s energy efficiency and ultimately lead to significant cost savings for you. Keep reading to learn how EPDM roofing can be the smart choice for your wallet and the environment.
What Is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM roofing, made of a synthetic rubber called Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is a popular choice for flat or low-sloped roofs. Not only is it known for its durability and resistance to weather, but it also offers an easy installation process and low maintenance cost.
Furthermore, EPDM roofing is a cost-effective option compared to other roofing materials and offers high resistance to UV radiation and weathering, increasing its lifespan. This makes this type of roofing a reliable and cost-efficient option for flat or low-sloped roofs, making it a great choice for commercial and residential buildings.
Comparison To Similar Roofing Materials
When comparing EPDM roofing to other types of roofing materials, such as TPO, PVC, and modified bitumen, it is clear that EPDM roofing is the more durable and long-lasting option.
EPDM roofing has a higher resistance to UV radiation and weathering, making it a better option for long-term outdoor use. TPO, PVC, and modified bitumen are single-ply roofing materials and are favored for their durability, but still, they are generally considered less durable, less resistant to the sun and weathering, and more expensive than EPDM.
In conclusion, EPDM roofing is more reliable and cost-efficient than other roofing materials. Therefore, it is a great choice for flat or low-sloped roofs.
The Benefits Of EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing is a beneficial choice for commercial and residential buildings. Some of the major benefits that come with EPDM roofing are as follows:
Durability And Longevity
The chemical composition of EPDM roofs is resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and ozone. Also, EPDM roofing is free from cracking, shrinking, or drying out.
EPDM is a highly resilient material for handling foot traffic and other mechanical stress, so it is a good choice for commercial or industrial buildings. The lifespan of an EPDM roof ranges between 20 to 30 years or more. However, its longevity depends on many factors, including material quality, installation methods, and maintenance.
Because an EPDM roof is a flat roof membrane, read our blog on how long a flat roof lasts to have more information on how flat roofs affect the lifespan of the material applied to them.
Weather Resistance
EPDM roofing offers strong weather resistance. The roofing material can withstand extreme temperatures, heavy rain, high winds, and other harsh weather conditions, making it last for many years.
The rubber material used in EPDM roofing is also highly flexible and can expand and contract with changes in temperature.
Easy Installation And Maintenance
In terms of installation and maintenance, EPDM roofing is an excellent option for its ease of use. One of the significant benefits of EPDM roofing is its quick installation which requires minimal equipment.
Plus, roofers can install EPDM roofs using several methods, such as fully adhered, mechanically fastened, and ballasted.
In addition to its relatively low maintenance requirement, EPDM roofs require no regular sealant or coating applications. To fit the shape and size of the roof, the roofers can cut it to size on-site, making it a flexible option for large or complex roofing projects.
Cost-Effective
For cost-effective roofing, EPDM roofs are a profitable option. One of the major benefits of EPDM roofing is its relatively low initial cost compared to other types of roofing materials.
Additionally, EPDM roofing is highly durable and long-lasting, which means that it can last for many years without the need for costly repairs or replacements. Overall, EPDM roofing’s cost-effectiveness is an advantage and a key factor that make it a preferable choice for flat or low-sloped roofs.
How EPDM Roofing Can Improve Energy Efficiency
High energy usage in your home or office makes you pay high bills. Whether it is summer or winter, you try to maintain the temperature inside the home to keep your loved ones comfortable and protected.
Here is how EPDM roofing can reduce energy bills:
Insulative Properties
The rubber material used for EPDM roofing is a good insulator. One of the main advantages of using EPDM roofs is that they keep your building warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Additionally, EPDM roofing can reduce the amount of heat entering or leaving your building, ultimately saving energy costs associated with heating and cooling.
Reflective And Reduces Solar Gain
The highly reflective nature of EPDM roofs is another advantage homeowners love. EPDM roofs reflect a large portion of the sun rays hitting the roof, which keeps the home interior cooler in the summer. On the other hand, in winter, the EPDM roofs maintain heat within the building with their insulative properties, keeping the home temperature warm.
Not only that, but EPDM roofing can also help reduce solar gain, which further reduces cooling costs during the summer months.
Average Cost of EPDM Roofing Installation
The average cost of EPDM roof installation is the sum of the average material cost, labor cost, old roof removal and disposal cost, along with various other factors. Read on to get a rough estimate of the complete cost.
Material Cost
The average cost of EPDM roof installation is around $3 to $5 per square foot. However, the final cost can vary based on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the roof, the location of the property, and the type of EPDM membrane and insulation.
Labor Cost
On average, the labor cost for EPDM roof installation range from $1 to $3 per square foot.
Additional costs that affect the overall cost of EPDM roof installation include the cost of removing and disposing of the old roof, the cost of any necessary repairs or upgrades to the roof deck or structure, and the cost of permits and inspections required by local building codes.
Tools And Supply Cost
Tools and supplies are additional costs that add to the overall installation estimate. Before the installation starts, you may need to pay an additional cost for tools and equipment that ranges between $300 – $500.
For the proper installation of an EPDM roof, you may need the following:
- Roofing Torch
- Heat Gun
- Adhesives
- Tape
- Utility knife
- Power roller
- Flashing
- Solvent Cleaner
The above is the list of tools and equipment to use while installing an EPDM roof. However, it is important to note that the type of roof you have may require additional or fewer tools than the ones mentioned. It is better to get a suggestion from a professional roofer on the tools you’ll need based on your roofing type.
Cost Comparison To Other Roofing Materials
EPDM roofing is generally considered to be a more cost-effective option than other types of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs.
| Roofing Materials | Material cost | Labor cost | Total cost |
| EPDM Roofing | $3 to $5 per square foot | $1 to $3 per square foot | $4 to $8 per square foot |
| Asphalt Shingles | $2 to $4 per square foot | $3 to $5 per square foot | $5 to $9 per square foot |
| Metal Roofing | $5 to $15 per square foot | $5 to $7 per square foot | $10 to $22 per square foot |
| Tile Roofing | $9 to $15 per square foot | $7 to $10 per square foot | $16 to $25 per square foot |
Factors That Affect The Cost Of EPDM Roof Installation
While installing a roof, you always need to keep in mind the factors that will add or subtract from your overall estimate.
Here is the list for you to have a look at before you make a decision.
Size And Complexity Of The Roof
The bigger the roof, the more skilled labor and quality materials it will require. The cost of the bigger roof could get high depending on the surface area that needs to be covered.
Another factor that affects the cost of installation is the associated complexities. If you want to install vents, skylights, and multiple layers to give yourself the comfort and an appealing look to your roof, the cost of the installation varies accordingly.
Location And Accessibility Of The Building
Factors such as the proximity of the building to the contractor’s location and the ease of access a roofer has to the roof can impact the cost of installation.
Keep in mind that a highly dense or populated area around your building will interrupt the roofers from accessing your building.
Material And Labor Costs
The material cost depends on the quality of the material you choose for your roof. Thick and high-quality EPDM membranes can cost you more than those of thin and cheap quality EPDM.
The time it takes to install, the size of the roof, and the complexities during installation greatly affect the labor cost.
Before any of these, ensure that you have hired a professional roofer to hand over your roofing project. Unskilled and unprofessional roofers can end up costing you more in the long run, even for minute errors.
How EPDM Roofing Can Save You Money
Initial Cost Savings
EPDM roofing is generally considered to be a more cost-effective option than other types of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofing. On average, EPDM roofs cost around $3 to $5 per square foot, while other materials can cost up to $10 per square foot.
Reduced Maintenance And Repair Costs
EPDM roofing is known for its durability and longevity. It can last up to 25-30 years with minimal maintenance, which can save you money on repairs and replacements over time.
Energy Savings
EPDM roofing can provide improved insulation and reflectivity, which can help reduce energy costs by keeping your building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Increased Property Value And Curb Appeal
A well-maintained EPDM roof can improve the overall appearance of your building, which can increase the property value and improve curb appeal.
Conclusion
EPDM roofs are not only cost-effective but also durable, long-lasting, environment-friendly, and easy to maintain. If you have a flat or low-pitched roof, an EPDM roof is the right choice. It can save you money in the long run while being energy efficient for your home or office.
If you want to install an EPDM roof on your commercial or residential building in Dayton, OH, you must contact All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters at (937)-902-2839. The company has over 10 years of experience serving residential homeowners and commercial property owners with roof installation, inspection, and repair services. So give us a call today and find out how we can help you!
