When intending to install a flat roof, it becomes necessary to use materials that will guarantee the roof will provide a long and effective service. There is a material called Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). It is a type of rubber that can help. This highly durable synthetic rubber is commonly used in multiple outdoor related purposes including roofing.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer roofing systems have risen in prominence in buildings that have flat roofs principally because of its durability and moderate cost. This article gives details on why this type of rubber is ideal for flat roofing and how using this material is mutually beneficial to building owners and the environment.
Table of Contents
What is EPDM Rubber?
EPDM is made out of oil based materials and natural gas and it has specifically been created to be used in extreme weather conditions, which is perfect for roofs. These can be bought in the form of rolls or large sheets which can easily be cut to fit the top of your building.
One common benefit that can be highlighted with reference to EPDM rubber is flexibility. They are resistant to very hot and very cold temperatures so they can be used in cold climate areas as well as in hot climate areas. They also possess other features for instance, UV, ozone as well as abrasion resistance and hence, roofs developed from EPDM hardly require any repair or even replacement.
Advantages of Using EPDM in Flat Roofing
a. Durability
EPDM roofs are quite durable, with life expectancies ranging between 50 years and even more if properly maintained. Its properties make it able to withstand various harsh weather conditions like rainfall, storm, hail and wind.
b. Low Maintenance
Unlike some other roofing materials, EPDM does not require constant maintenance. This can save the owners of the buildings time and money. It is not easily damaged and does not absorb dirt or moisture, nor does it support the growth of moss and algae, which are common enemies to other forms of roofs.
c. Energy Efficiency
EPDM has properties that can assist in controlling the internal temperature of buildings. The rubber material is heat resistant, making the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This may result in reduced power consumption hence cutting on costs of electricity.
d. Easy Installation
EPDM sheets are relatively light and this makes it easy to install them which in turn means that the cost of installation will be relatively low.
Environmental Advantages of an EPDM Roof
Selecting EPDM for flat roofing also has several environmental advantages. Firstly, EPDM is recyclable. In case an EPDM roof gets old and is no longer useful, then the material is recyclable and it can be used in the production of items such as running tracks or even other roofs. This has a directly relative effect of reducing the amount of waste materials that find their way to landfill sites.
Further, the EPDM is energy efficient during its production, an aspect that makes the material to have less effect on the environment compared to other roofing materials that may take a lot of energy to produce.
Conclusion
EPDM Rubber is ideal for use on flat roofs because of its characteristics such as durability, low maintenance, and eco-friendly properties. One factor that makes many building owners to settle for this material is the fact that it is very durable when it comes to weather conditions, energy efficient, as well as relatively cheaper. When you opt for EPDM, not only does your building receive one of the best roofing systems in the market, but you are also helping to solve future world problems. Whether what you have is a new construction site or whether you have an old, damaged roof that needs to be replaced, EPDM rubber has clear advantages to offer.
