EPDM roofing is an acronym describing essentially a rubber-type material that is installed on flat roofs. Read on to learn why it isn’t just the roof size that determines EPDM roofing cost.
How Long Does an EPDM Roofing Last?
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EPDM roofing lifespan reaches 30 to 40 years when you maintain it well, making it one of the longest-lasting rubber roof options for your home.
Membrane thickness affects how long your EPDM roof lasts, with thicker options between 0.40 and 0.90 mils providing better puncture resistance and durability over time.
Regular roof inspections help you spot punctures, cracks, blisters, or water pooling early, so you can address issues before they shorten your EPDM roof's life expectancy.
Hiring a local roofing professional provides expert installation and maintenance support, helping your EPDM roofing reach its full lifespan through proper techniques and timely repairs.
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EPDM roofing is rubber roofing designed to be extremely durable, but just how durable is it? If you’re new to it, you can read more about what EPDM roofing is. But in this article, we’ll break down the nitty-gritty details of how long EPDM roofing lasts.
How Long Does EPDM Roofing Last?
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EPDM roofing lasts around 30 to 40 years on average. The exact life span of EPDM roofing will depend on the climate/weather it endures, its level of maintenance, and restoration.
When comparing EPDM versus TPO roofing or PVC roofing, they all have pros and cons, but EPDM roofing often lasts longer than these alternatives.
Factors Influencing How Long EPDM Roofing Lasts
The exact longevity of EPDM roofing depends on a few key factors, which are important to consider when you compare the pros and cons of EPDM roofing.
Maintenance
Many roofing issues happen because of poor maintenance or no maintenance at all. Like anything in your home, maintaining EPDM roofing with proper cleaning and repairs is important to keep its quality up to par.
Installation Quality
The quality of installation is sure to impact how long an EPDM roof lasts. While it is possible to install it yourself, it’s best left to the pros. Research available roofers near you to find the best fit that will get the job done right.
Membrane Thickness
EPDM roofing can be made to different thickness levels—typically 0.40 to 0.90 mils. The different levels of thickness allow for different levels of durability and resistance to punctures. The thicker the membrane, the longer the roofing should last.
Roof Design
EPDM roofing is often used on flat roofs that cover non-living spaces. That being said, the flatness creates easy access for water to pool. A roof with EPDM designed with appropriate draining and sloping will last longer and mitigate water damage.
Chemical Exposure
EPDM roofing is resistant to most chemicals, but if the roof is near an industrial area or chemical plant, the effect of chemical oils and solvents can impact the roofing over time, causing it to break down more quickly. Fortunately, there are some protective seals you can install on EPDM roofing if needed to resist the effects of chemical exposure.
Signs It’s Time To Replace EPDM Roofing
Here are some of the signs that indicate it’s time to replace your EPDM roofing. Roof replacement cost will depend on the roof’s surface size and geographic location.
Maintenance Tips for EPDM Roofing
Photo: Tomasz Zajda / adobe stock
Here are some easy ways to keep up with the maintenance of EPDM roofing and help it last as long as possible.
Conduct regular roof inspections. You can hire a professional roofing contractor to conduct inspections and ensure the roof is in good condition.
Restore issues as needed. If issues with EPDM roofing do arise, be sure to take care of them promptly by hiring a roofing professional.
Clean your roof. An accumulation of debris or overall lack of cleanliness can have a serious impact on EPDM roofing’s longevity. Clean it regularly so this does not become an issue.
Warranties for EPDM Roofing
Depending on your provider, warranties for EPDM roofing can range from five to 30 years and cover the cost—or part of the cost—for replacing or repairing the roof. Some of the circumstances that these warranties cover are erosion, punctures, and tears—things often caused by weather damage.
To get a warranty for your EPDM roofing, you can ask your roof’s manufacturer or contractor or contact a third party organization that provides warranties in your area.
Repairing vs. Replacing EPDM Roofing
Choosing whether to repair or replace EPDM roofing depends on the extent of the damage and/or wear and tear incurred by the EPDM roofing. If the damage is severe, it may be worth it to replace the roofing completely. When choosing a roofer, compare what they would charge for replacement versus repairs to help inform your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roofing services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.3★ avg. • 120 total reviews
- Chance R.
D1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLC - Jeremy P.
This place took $25,000 for a flat roof job with a five-year warranty and never returned to fix the leaks that were caused by their work. These people are not professionals and should not be doing this type of work. They incorrectly changed the pitch of the roof, and caused more damage than...
- David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Kevin S.
I am really impressed with their timeliness and turnaround. Mitchell came out, and we decided to move forward with their pricing. Our roof was on within a week, and we could not be happier with their team! Amazing company, great prices and honest, dependable craftsmanship. I highly recommend...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Rob B.
Manuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
- Julie K.
They damaged multiple items on my property, including a marble slab used as a table top, tried to hide it, and refused to pay or replace. Arrived day one without a ladder to access roof & delayed a day. Left a mess in back yard; didn't wear face masks; no show by owner to property to see damages
Grants Tree Service - Marcia L.
I've hired Gary/Cherokee Roofing for two different homes, work quality, responsiveness, and completion have been great both times. And the prices quoted were very competitive. I would definitely hire again.
- Paul F.
Lyle did a great job removing asbestos shingles from our front porch roof. They worked together with our roofer to make sure that the new roof was able to be installed on the same day that Lyle removed the asbestos shingles.
Lyle Environmental - Paul F.
Bradley Builders did a good job replacing the roof on our front porch. They color-matched the existing shingles on the rest of the house and installed a metal ridge roll since we live in a historical neighborhood. They did the job while we were out of town. When we got back, everything was...
Bradley Builders, Inc. - Madison B.
I would absolutely recommend this business. They offer a variety of services, including: painting, roofing, and refinishing wood flooring. I hired them to refinish the original hardwood flooring in my home built in 1874. The job was quite challenging, as the floors were extremely aged and...
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