What is EPDM Roofing and What Are the Benefits?

Considering the defined rainy season in the state, an EPDM roof in Florida is a sensible roofing choice. EPDM roofing systems offer durability, versatility of design and ease of installation which makes them the perfect solution for new, re-roof flat and low-slope roofing applications. An EPDM roof does not pollute or affect runoff water which remains neutral and can be collected for personal or sanitation use. An EPDM roof is used in Florida businesses equipped for rainwater harvesting. EPDM is a rubber material containing ethylene and propylene as its major components. It is one of the most common roofing materials used in low-slope applications and has been in use in the U.S. since the 1960s. EPDM is cost effective; easy to work with and install which makes it a popular waterproofing choice. It is particularly appealing because it leaves no odors and fumes.

EPDM Roofing Offers Exceptional Versatility

EPDM works by forming a rubber matrix when a small amount of diene is added to it. It is available in two forms, reinforced and unreinforced, both forms being equally effective when used. EPDM comes in two states – cured (vulcanized) and uncured (non-vulcanized). Non-vulcanized is often used for flashing purposes while vulcanized EPDM is the kind most commonly used. EPDM is known as a Thermoset material. This means is that it either cures after installation due to natural weathering or is fully-cured before installation. An EPDM roof typically comprises only a single ply of roofing material.

EPDM membranes come in various thicknesses ranging from 0.030” to 0.100” The most commonly used for roofing applications are 0.045” and 0.060”. There are three standard methods of application:

• Fully-adhered, where you use water or solvent based adhesives to stick the rubber to the substrate
• Mechanically fastened where the rubber is attached to the substrate using manufacturer-approved methods
• Loose laid, where the rubber is secured only at the perimeter and in any penetrations. Structural integrity is critical in loose-laid roofing systems with all the seams having to be sealed using splice tape or adhesive.

EPDM Roofing is Ideal for Florida

The lifespan of EPDM roof systems varies considerably and depends on a number of conditions. Some of these criteria are environmental conditions like the kind of building it is to be applied to and its roofing profile, the amount of foot traffic it gets, how much water stagnates on the roof after a rain and the rate of evaporation of stagnant water. Other significant factors are weather conditions. High winds and hail shorten the lifespan. Similarly a steeper slope where there is rapid water runoff and little pooling extends it. Florida’s mild humid tropical climate is perfectly suited to EPDM. Harsher climates can seriously shorten its lifespan.