EPDM Roofing: A Durable Solution for Commercial Roofs
It is very important to protect the roofs of commercial buildings for a long time. In today’s time, many types of roofing materials are available in the market. Out of all these options, EPDM roofing is proving to be a great option. It is mainly a special type of rubber that provides strength to roofs. Owners of commercial buildings are loving this roofing as it lasts for a long time and can withstand many seasonal challenges.
The popularity of EPDM roofing is increasing day by day. It is a black rubber sheet that is laid on the roof of the building. The full name of this roofing is ethylene propylene diene monomer. The name may seem complicated, but its methodology is very simple. It protects the roof from seasonal elements such as water, sunlight etc. It is also easy to set up and works without any hassle for many years.
Advantages of EPDM Roofing
There are several advantages of this roofing that make it different from other roofing. It allows water to slip through the roof and never let water in. It keeps the roof cool in summer and warm in winter. This also reduces the electricity bill. It also does not allow fire to spread and works well in the snow too. It is also easy to care for and looks like new for many years.
EPDM roofing can also withstand strong winds. It remains strong even in natural disasters like earthquakes. Insects do not thrive on this roofing. That’s why the building stays clean. It is also not harmful to the ozone layer. No special maintenance is required after its installation. It performs the same in all weather.
Features of EPDM Roofing
The biggest feature of this roofing is its flexibility. It expands in summer and shrinks in cold but does not break. Its surface is smooth so that water flows easily. It is flaky which increases its strength. It is difficult to make holes in it and if there is a hole, it can be easily repaired.
Another property of EPDM roofing is that it is not affected by chemical substances. It does not melt even in bright sunlight. Water does not accumulate on its surface. It does not allow bacteria and fungus to grow. Its color does not fade with time. It can withstand ultraviolet rays. It has a uniform thickness, giving it equal protection everywhere.
How is EPDM roofing installed?
The way to install this roofing is very simple. First the roof is cleaned. Then the sheet is laid out on the ceiling. It is glued to the ceiling with special glue. The edges are well sealed. Drains are made for the drainage of water. Special care is taken in this entire process that water does not go inside from anywhere.
Weather is also considered at the time of installation. It is not planted in the rainy season. The roof surface is first fixed. Any crack or malfunction is repaired. The sheet is carefully laid out so that there are no wrinkles. Special attention is paid to the edges as the risk of water entering from there is the highest. It is checked after complete installation.
EPDM Roofing Care
The care of this roofing is very easy. It should be cleaned twice a year. It is necessary to remove the garbage accumulated on the roof. Drainage areas should be kept clean. If there is a minor damage, it should be repaired immediately. With regular checks, this roofing works well for a long time.
A soft broom is used for cleaning. Hard brushes should not be used as they can damage the surface. During the rainy season, leaves and garbage accumulate. It should be cleaned from time to time. Special attention should be paid to the places of drainage of water. It is important to see that there is no obstruction. Heavy items should not be placed on the roof. Substances such as oil or paint should not be allowed to fall in the sun.
EPDM Roofing Age
This roofing lasts for a very long time. With good care, it works for thirty to thirty-five years. Its quality is so good that it easily withstands the weather. Its strength does not decrease over time nor does its color deteriorate. It also maintains its flexibility.
This roofing looks like brand new in the first five years. Ten years later, there hasn’t been a major change. It works for fifteen to twenty years without any major repairs. Twenty-five years later, its original characteristics remain intact. It protects the roof for 30 years. In some cases, it can even last up to thirty-five years.
Impact of EPDM Roofing on Environment
This roofing is environmentally friendly. It takes less energy to make it. It can be recycled and does not cause pollution. Its longevity means that it does not need to be replaced frequently. This also reduces the amount of waste. It keeps the roof cool which reduces power consumption.
Rainwater can also be harvested through this roofing. It keeps water pure and helps in collecting it. This saves water. It is also suitable for installing solar panels. Electricity can be saved by using solar energy. In this way, it benefits the environment in many ways. It is also manufactured in factories that comply with environmental regulations.
EPDM Roofing vs. Other Roofing
EPDM roofing is better in many ways than other roofing. It is more durable and easier to care for. There is no leakage of water in it and it does not allow the fire to spread. Its installation is quick and it lasts for a long time. It is also easy to repair and does not need to be replaced.
It is more flexible than metal roofing. Like tile roofing, it doesn’t break. It has a longer lifespan than PVC roofing. There is a risk of being blown away by the wind in shingle roofing, but this is not the case with EPDM. Bitumen roofing can melt in the heat, while EPDM remains strong in every season. Asbestos roofing is injurious to health, but EPDM is completely safe.
Other roofing has many drawbacks. Some cracks appear. Some fade away quickly. Some are very heavy. Some are difficult to repair. Some are very expensive. But EPDM roofing does not have these problems. It performs the same in all weather. It is also easy to install and lasts for a long time.
EPDM roofing is a great choice for commercial roofs. It lasts for a long time and is easy to care for. It withstands the harsh weather easily and is also good for the environment. It is easy to install and provides protection to the building. All these qualities have made it an ideal choice for commercial buildings.