If your building is in need of a new roof, consider EPDM membranes. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, and it is a very durable and cost-effective option.

1. Fewer Seam Leaks

One of the main points of failure on a commercial membrane roof is at the seams. Over time, the adhesive fails and the seams separate so that water can seep under the membrane. EPDM roofs are typically installed in a single piece, which means there aren't any seams to develop a leak in the future. In the rare cases where seams are necessary, such as on large or oddly shaped roofs, they are heat-sealed and glued to help prevent future seam separation.

2. Easy Maintenance

Other than periodic cleaning, particularly to remove bird droppings, it is rare for an EPDM roof to need any maintenance. It should be inspected annually to make sure there is no damage, though. The good news is that if there is a small tear or puncture, the roof can easily be patched. Rarely does damage mean you need a new roof, as long as the damage is caught and repaired quickly.

3. Longevity

It's expensive to replace a commercial roof, so it makes sense to choose a roof that can last for many years. An EPDM roof has a lifespan measured in decades. Most will last at least 20 years, and proper maintenance and regular inspections can easily double that life expectancy. Not only does this save you on replacements, but it also prevents any losses that result from business interruption as a result of a new roof installation.

4. Weather Resistance

Weathering can be particularly hard on flat roofs as they are exposed to everything — UV light rays, rain, wind, and ice. Fortunately, EPDM is made to be resistant to most weathering damage, including UV light. Standing water can also be an issue on a flat roof membrane, but EPDM can handle a bit of water collection without any problems with failure or hole formation. Even temperature fluctuations, such as during rapid freeze and thaw cycles, won't damage the membrane.

5. Lightweight

When putting a new roof on a commercial building, one concern is weight. Every roof structure is rated to hold a specific weight, and some flat roofs can be quite heavy. If your roof structure can't handle the weight of the material, there will be extra time and expense required to reinforce the structure. Fortunately, EPDM roofs are very lightweight, so there should never be any weight issues.

Contact a commercial roofer to learn more about EPDM roofing for your building.