Providence Roofing: Is EPDM Roofing Actual Made From Rubber?
When you start considering the materials that you will use for your commercial structure, you will hear a lot of different suggestions. TPO roofing in Rhode Island is quite popular, as is EPDM rubber roofing. Both fall under the category of single-ply roofing and offer similar benefits, yet are made from different materials. One of the questions that we often get from our prospective clients is whether EPDM materials are really made from rubber. The simple answer is that while it is known as rubber roofing in Rhode Island and just about everywhere it is used, EPDM roofing is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane made from an engineered compound called ethylene propylene diene monomer. It is widely used for commercial structures in the United States and all around the globe.
What is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer?
There are many different types of roofing materials to choose from in the New England region, and it is essential to make an informed choice. Working with a licensed, experienced, and insured roofing contractor is the best way to go to ensure quality results. Single-ply roofing is very popular with commercial properties, as it is affordable, durable, and requires little maintenance throughout its lifetime. Ethylene and propylene are materials that are derived from oil and natural gas. EPDM rubber roofing is one of the most popular choices for commercial and industrial properties today. It is available in either black or white and comes in a variety of widths, depending on your needs.
There are three ways that rubber roofing in Rhode Island can be installed. It can be fully adhered, mechanically attached, or it can be ballasted. The type of installation and other materials used will depend greatly on the structure. For example, ballasted systems are typically used in large construction projects for new buildings; however, they can be used as a replacement for old roofing when the existing structure can support the additional weight. The mechanically attached system is installed using large panels and is attached through the membrane. It is very lightweight and can be used for all sizes of buildings and types of structures. The fully adhered system is ideal for a wide range of slopes, configurations, and sizes of buildings, which makes it the most widely used method for installation.
Which is Better: Black or White?
The white version of EPDM rubber roofing is highly reflective, designed to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling. The surface itself is very friendly to the environment, making it popular for LEED certification projects and other construction where eco-friendly solutions are required. Titanium dioxide is mixed into white single-ply roofing to enhance UV resistance in addition to the oils and polymers used for traditional EPDM. White EPDM rubber roofing can reduce air-conditioning costs in the summer without reducing the strength and durability of the roofing system. It is most commonly installed using either a fully adhered or mechanically attached installation method, due to its reflectivity.
When it comes to the traditional black EPDM rubber roofing, carbon black is added to the material to help convert UV rays into heat. Once again, this helps to enhance resistance to UV rays, increasing the durability and longevity of the installed material. White EPDM is recommended for use in warm climates to help keep the structure cooler in the summer to reduce cooling requirements and costs. Black EPDM can be used anywhere but is most popular in cooler climates due to its ability to convert the damaging UV rays into heat. To find out which option is best for your commercial or industrial structure, work with an experienced Rhode Island roofing contractor like A&M Sheet Metal & Roofing.
Durable & Flexible Roofing Solutions
Compared to other types of single-ply roofing materials, EPDM is extremely durable and flexible, providing many years of protection for your commercial or industrial structure. Excellent for all roof types, EPDM rubber roofing can also be used to damp-proof a structure. This provides additional protection and peace of mind for commercial warehouses, production facilities, shipping businesses, and other projects that need to protect the goods and materials stored inside the building. This type of material is UV-stable, ozone-stable, and is designed to move with your building as it shifts over time for longer-lasting strength, similar to TPO roofing in Rhode Island.
Get a FREE estimate for rubber roofing in Rhode Island by calling 401.654.4128. Our team of experienced roofing technicians can provide you with all of the information you need to choose the best type of single-ply roofing or other roofing material for your structure. Call today and learn why so many commercial clients in the New England region trust A&M Sheet Metal & Roofing for all of their installation, repair, and maintenance needs.