Roof Systems

EPDM Roofing

EPDM is a flexible synthetic-rubber single-ply membrane for commercial low-slope roofs. We review your building and existing roof first, then recommend a repair, recover, or replacement that fits.

What EPDM Is

Is EPDM right for your building?

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a cured synthetic-rubber membrane for low-slope and flat roofs, available in black or white. Sheets are joined with manufacturer-approved seam tapes and adhesives. It suits many commercial and industrial buildings, but the right choice depends on your facility.

  • Roof condition and moisture

    Wet insulation and failed areas in the existing roof shape whether a repair, recover, or tear-off makes sense.

  • Rooftop equipment and flashings

    Curbs, pipes, and units each need compatible EPDM flashing details and service access.

  • Insulation and drainage

    Insulation thickness, slope, and drain locations shape the assembly beneath the membrane.

  • Attachment and deck load

    The deck type and structural capacity determine whether adhered, fastened, or ballasted attachment is suitable.

Black EPDM rubber roof with a rooftop HVAC unit and brick parapet walls

Why Owners Choose It

Benefits of EPDM

  • Long-term performance

    EPDM has an established service record on commercial roofs. Installation quality, roof conditions, and regular care determine how long a given roof lasts.

  • Lightweight and flexible

    The rubber membrane accommodates normal building movement. Total assembly weight still matters, especially where ballast is used.

  • Material and color choices

    Black and white membranes suit different buildings and climates. Recycling at end of life depends on material condition and local programs.

  • Weather resistance

    EPDM is made to withstand sun and temperature swings. Wind and hail performance depends on the tested assembly, attachment, and substrate.

Illustrative EPDM roof assembly from top to bottom: EPDM rubber membrane with taped seams, cover board if specified, insulation, and roof deck, with a parapet edge flashing and a roof drainEPDM membrane (taped seams)Cover board (if specified)InsulationRoof deckRoof drainEdge / parapet flashingIllustrative only. Layers, attachment, and details vary by project.
Simplified, not to scale. Penetrations, edges, and drainage are detailed for each roof.

The Assembly

How an EPDM roof comes together

An EPDM roof works as a complete assembly: deck, insulation, any specified cover board, and the rubber membrane, with seams joined by primer and seam tape and flashed at edges, penetrations, and drains. The attachment method depends on the deck, wind requirements, and what the manufacturer approves for that system.

  • Fully adhered

    The membrane is bonded to an approved substrate with adhesive, leaving a smooth surface without fastener rows.

  • Mechanically attached

    Fasteners and plates secure the sheets along the laps, which are then sealed with seam tape. Common on steel decks.

  • Ballasted

    Loose-laid membrane held in place by stone or pavers. Requires confirmed structural capacity and suitability for local wind exposure.

Each method is used only where the selected manufacturer approves it, and every primer, tape, adhesive, and flashing must be approved for EPDM.

Project Results

Before & After

EPDM project photos coming soon

We're gathering before and after photos from a completed EPDM roof. They'll appear here once they're ready.

Before
After

Your Options

Options for your EPDM roof

Planning a new EPDM roof or dealing with leaks on an existing one? We find the cause first, then recommend the scope that addresses it, whether that is a repair, a recover, or a new system.

  • New installation

    An EPDM assembly planned around the deck, insulation, drainage, attachment method, and rooftop equipment.

    Learn about New installation
  • Replacement or recover

    We check moisture, existing layers, and deck condition to decide between a tear-off and a recover.

    Learn about Replacement
  • Repair and maintenance

    Punctures, open seams, and flashing issues can often be repaired with compatible EPDM materials.

    Learn about Repair & maintenance

Before We Recommend

What we evaluate before recommending EPDM

  • Roof condition and moisture

    Where the existing roof has failed and whether water has reached the insulation.

  • Drainage

    Slope, drains, scuppers, and any areas where water collects.

  • Deck and structural load

    Deck type and condition, and whether it can carry the planned assembly, including ballast.

  • Seams, flashings, and equipment

    Seam condition, edge and curb flashings, and how rooftop units are serviced.

  • Insulation and compatibility

    Insulation thickness and condition, plus which existing materials the EPDM system can be installed over.

  • Access and operations

    How work can be staged around your tenants, staff, and day-to-day operations.

Questions

EPDM roofing FAQs

EPDM is a cured synthetic rubber. Its seams are joined with manufacturer-approved primers, seam tapes, and adhesives. TPO and PVC are thermoplastics with heat-welded seams. Each can suit a low-slope roof; your building, existing roof, and budget decide which fits.

Let’s evaluate your roof.

Tell us what you’re seeing and what you’re planning. We’ll help you understand your roof’s condition and the options worth considering.