The Pros & Cons of Using EPDM Rubber Roofing in Rhode Island

It pays to do your research when it comes to Rhode Island roofing services. There are many different options for flat commercial roofing that can be used today. Some are cheap and easy to install, saving you money initially. However, many of those low-cost solutions will need to be replaced in just a few short years, similar to asphalt shingle roofing on a home. EPDM rubber roofing, which stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, the chemical compound used to create the roofing material membrane, is a popular choice among commercial and industrial property owners. The compound includes a mixture of recycled tires, sawdust, and slate dust, making it a sustainable choice for businesses that are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cheap Does Not Always Mean Low-Quality

Another thing to learn about rubber roofing in Rhode Island is that it is a very low-cost solution. It is not “cheap” in the meaning that is usually attributed to poor quality materials, but it is low-in-cost and provides a significant return on investment when properly installed. A bad installation of even the best and most costly roofing material will yield poor results. It is always best to work with reputable Rhode Island roofing services for installation and for maintenance to repair roofing. Anything less will be a waste of money, and you will likely need to pay to have the shoddy work done by an inexperienced or unlicensed roofer again anyway.

Depending on the thickness of the EPDM rubber roofing and installation criteria, the average cost for the material can run under a dollar per square foot. It is also much easier to install than other roofing materials, meaning that it can be installed in a fraction of the time and will require less labor costs than other custom roofing installations.

Long-Lasting & Durable

Cost aside, one of the best reasons to choose rubber roofing in Rhode Island is that it is very light in weight, which means no additional roof deck work should need to be done for reinforcement. There are very few seams with this type of material, which means that leaks will be rare and a quality product and professional installation could last for 20 years or more without needing to be replaced. The EPDM rubber roofing is pretty durable, as it takes a lot to really scuff or scratch it. If you need to maintenance or repair the roofing, it will be easy and quick to do as well. Depending on the material and the installer, liquid roofing membranes, latex tape, and other adhesives, or even rubber shingles can be installed right on top of the leaks.

In spite of the material being black, rubber roofing is not damaged by UV rays. It does absorb the heat, however, but it is both UV-stable and ozone-stable for long-lasting durability. EPDM rubber roofing has been tested in extreme temperatures in both Florida and Alaska and has been deemed an excellent choice for hot and cold weather conditions. This type of roofing material is very flexible, making it perfect for many different types of commercial and industrial applications. For properties that require damp-proofing, rubber roofing in Rhode Island is one of the best roofing material choices available. It is even designed to move with your building over time to prevent leaks from forming.

The Downside of Rubber Roofing Materials

Perhaps the only negative associated with EPDM rubber roofing is complaints about its appearance. For property owners who want a great-looking roof to enhance the visual appeal of their commercial retail store or office complex, rubber roofing might not be the best choice. It is made of rubber, so it looks very much like a stretched out black inner tube up on your roof. While this is probably not an issue for industrial buildings, warehouses, storage facilities, and garages, it might be a deal killer for a fancy building with a visible roof. It is also important to ensure that workers do not go up on the roof wearing boots that might damage the roofing materials. Speak with a representative when you inquire about rubber roofing in Rhode Island to see if it would be a good choice for your type of structure.

Contact A&M Sheet Metal & Roofing for a FREE estimate on EPDM rubber roofing, as well as other types of roofing materials for your commercial, corporate, or industrial structure. We also provide a variety of maintenance and repair for roofing in the Greater Rhode Island area. Give us a call at 401.654.4128 to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.