What Is EPDM Roofing?
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, commonly known as EPDM, is a high-performance synthetic rubber roofing membrane that has been protecting commercial buildings for over half a century. EPDM is composed of a durable rubber compound derived from oil and natural gas, engineered to withstand the most demanding weather conditions. Available in both black and white formulations, EPDM membranes are manufactured in wide sheets that minimize the number of field seams required during installation.
EPDM has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and long-lasting flat roofing systems in the industry. Its proven performance history spans decades, with many buildings still protected by EPDM membranes installed in the 1970s and 1980s. This track record of durability makes EPDM a preferred choice for building owners who prioritize long-term value and low lifecycle costs.
Key Benefits of EPDM Rubber Roofing
EPDM delivers a unique combination of performance characteristics that make it exceptionally well-suited for commercial and industrial roofing applications, particularly in the variable climate conditions found throughout the Midwest.
Outstanding Durability and Longevity
EPDM membranes are engineered to resist the effects of aging, ozone exposure, and weathering over extremely long periods. With proper installation and maintenance, an EPDM roof can provide reliable protection for 25 to 40 years or more. The membrane's molecular structure resists degradation from environmental stressors that cause other roofing materials to fail prematurely. This longevity translates directly into lower lifecycle costs for building owners.
Superior Flexibility in Extreme Cold
One of EPDM's most valuable properties is its ability to remain flexible at extremely low temperatures. While many roofing materials become rigid and brittle in cold weather, EPDM retains its elasticity even at temperatures well below zero degrees Fahrenheit. This characteristic is critical in the Chicago area and throughout the Midwest, where winter temperatures routinely drop below freezing and freeze-thaw cycles place enormous stress on roofing systems. EPDM's cold-weather flexibility prevents the cracking and splitting that can compromise other membrane types.
Weather and Hail Resistance
EPDM's rubber composition gives it inherent resistance to impact damage from hail and wind-driven debris. The membrane absorbs impact energy rather than fracturing, providing superior protection during severe weather events that are common throughout the Great Lakes region. EPDM also resists damage from thermal cycling, which occurs when rooftop temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night or between seasons.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Compared to many other commercial roofing systems, EPDM requires relatively minimal ongoing maintenance. The membrane does not require periodic coatings or surface treatments to maintain its performance. Routine inspections and prompt attention to any issues that arise are typically all that is needed to keep an EPDM roof performing at its best for decades. This low maintenance profile reduces the total cost of building ownership over the life of the roof.
Environmentally Responsible
EPDM is one of the greenest roofing materials available. The membrane is fully recyclable at the end of its service life and requires significantly less energy to manufacture than many alternative roofing products. EPDM's exceptional longevity also means fewer replacement cycles and less construction waste over the life of the building. White EPDM membranes provide additional environmental benefits through solar reflectivity, reducing building cooling loads and urban heat island effects.
EPDM Installation Methods
Windward Roofing installs EPDM roofing systems using the attachment method best suited to each building's structural requirements, wind uplift calculations, and project specifications.
Fully Adhered Systems
In fully adhered installations, the EPDM membrane is bonded directly to the substrate using specialized adhesive across the entire roof surface. This method provides excellent wind uplift resistance and creates a smooth, uniform appearance. Fully adhered systems are commonly specified for buildings in high-wind areas and for projects where aesthetics are a priority. The bonded attachment eliminates the need for fastener penetrations through the membrane.
Mechanically Attached Systems
Mechanically attached EPDM systems use rows of plates and fasteners along the membrane seams to secure the roofing to the deck. This method is efficient for large roof areas and is particularly well-suited for installation over steel decking. Mechanically attached systems are cost-effective and provide reliable long-term performance when properly designed and installed to meet wind uplift requirements.
Ballasted Systems
Ballasted EPDM installations use loose-laid membrane held in place by smooth river rock or concrete pavers placed over the surface. Ballasted systems offer rapid installation and easy future access to the membrane for repairs or modifications. The ballast also provides additional protection from UV exposure and mechanical damage. This method requires adequate structural capacity to support the weight of the ballast material.
EPDM Repair and Maintenance Services
Windward Roofing provides comprehensive repair and maintenance services for EPDM roofing systems of all ages and conditions. Our repair capabilities include patching membrane punctures, resealing separated seams, replacing deteriorated flashings, and addressing issues around penetrations and roof edges. We use manufacturer-approved materials and techniques to ensure all repairs are compatible with the existing membrane and maintain warranty coverage.
Our preventive maintenance programs are designed to maximize the service life of your EPDM roof and prevent minor issues from developing into costly problems. Maintenance visits include thorough visual inspections, documentation of roof conditions, debris removal, drain and scupper cleaning, and proactive treatment of areas showing early signs of wear. We provide detailed reports after each visit so building owners and managers have clear documentation of their roof's condition and any recommended actions.
Why Choose Windward Roofing for EPDM?
With more than 40 years of experience in commercial roofing, Windward Roofing and Construction brings unmatched expertise to every EPDM project. Our crews have installed and maintained EPDM roofing systems on hundreds of commercial and industrial buildings across Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Florida. We maintain active certifications with leading EPDM manufacturers including Carlisle, IKO, and Elevate, allowing us to offer the most comprehensive manufacturer warranty programs available.
Our commitment to quality begins with a thorough project assessment and continues through every phase of installation. We use only premium-grade materials, employ experienced full-time crews, and maintain rigorous quality control standards on every job site. Our in-house project management team ensures clear communication, adherence to schedules, and accountability throughout the project. Whether you need a new EPDM installation, a recover over an existing roof, or expert repair and maintenance services, Windward Roofing delivers the results you need to protect your building investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing systems have a proven track record of lasting 25 to 40 years or more when properly installed and maintained. Many EPDM roofs installed in the 1980s are still performing today. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs help maximize the membrane's service life.
EPDM and TPO are both excellent single-ply membrane options. EPDM offers superior flexibility in cold weather and a longer proven track record, while TPO provides higher reflectivity for energy savings. The best choice depends on your building's specific requirements, climate, and budget.
Yes, EPDM is exceptionally well-suited for cold climates. The synthetic rubber membrane remains flexible even at temperatures well below zero, which prevents cracking and splitting during harsh Midwest winters. This flexibility makes EPDM an ideal choice for Chicago-area buildings.
EPDM roofs benefit from semi-annual inspections, regular debris removal, drain and gutter cleaning, and prompt repair of any punctures or seam separations. Windward Roofing offers maintenance programs that include detailed inspections, documentation, and priority repair service.
EPDM is one of the most environmentally responsible roofing options. The membrane is fully recyclable, requires minimal energy to manufacture compared to other roofing materials, and its long service life reduces waste from replacement cycles. White EPDM options also provide reflective energy savings.