Are you looking at residential roofing materials and feeling a little unimpressed by your options? The standard choices, like shingles and metal, all perform quite well. But they are not for everyone. If you're looking for something a bit more unusual but still functional, consider EPDM roofing. It's eco-friendly, fairly easy to install, and has a modern appearance. Here's a bit more information about it.
What is EPDM?
EPDM is essentially a type of rubber. It comes in big rolls, and your roofer unrolls it onto your roof, sealing it down as they go. EPDM is not a new roofing material. It has been used on commercial buildings for many years, and with great success. However, as its look is quite different from that of traditional shingles, it has not taken off in the residential space until recently. Homeowners are sometimes now favoring a simpler, more commercial look, and EDPM definitely delivers in that regard.
What makes EDPM an eco-friendly material?
It is made mostly from rubber, which does not generate a lot of pollution. EPDM is also very energy-efficient. It keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and as such, it lowers your energy bills year-round. Using less energy is good for the planet since most energy is still obtained by burning fossil fuels.
Is EPDM ideal for all roofs?
No, EPDM does not tend to work as well on flat roofs since it can hold onto water and encourage pooling. It is, however, a good choice for roofs with any level of slope. Even low-slope roofs that are not candidates for shingles are a good fit for EPDM.
Does EPDM work well in harsh weather?
Yes, EPDM can be a good roofing material to use in stormy areas. Hail tends to bounce right off of it, rather than leaving dents. Wind won't catch it as long as the edges are properly sealed down. And snow tends to slide right off the roof once it melts a little. EPDM is also a good choice in areas where wildfires are a concern because it is not very flammable.
Now that you know a little more about EPDM, you are ready to have a conversation about it with a roofer. Find a roofing company in your area that works with this material, and don't hesitate to ask them a little more about this material. As it is relatively new to the residential roofing world, many roofers will be happy to tell you more about it.
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Share17 March 2023
When it came time to install a new roof on my home, I had no idea where to start. In fact, I was exploring roofing options that were a really poor fit in my climate. It wasn't until I reached out to a local roofer that I got some lessons on how to choose the right roofing material for my home and the weather exposure it is subjected to. I built this site to share my journey, including the mistakes I made and the things that I learned along the way. If you are considering replacing your home's roof, I hope that the information here can help to guide you through the process.
