What’s Best for My Building: EPDM Roof Repair, Replacement, or Restoration?
For business owners and property managers alike, keeping the roof over your head in good condition is essential. But, when it comes to Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), how do you know when maintenance won’t cut it anymore? Moreover, when should you invest in a full replacement?
Keep reading to find out!
Understanding Your Different Service Options
EPDM lasts anywhere from 20 to 50 years, making it a great choice for your flat roof. After a few decades, however, the age disparity raises a shingle question: “What service is best for my building?”
When the time comes to give some TLC to your rubber roofing, here’s what you need to know:
When Do I Need EPDM Roof Repair?
Thanks to the durability of EPDM, it’s possible that while your roof might have some damage, it’s not enough to warrant a full replacement. Enter our first service option for your EPDM roof—repair. The process itself is noninvasive, as a professional contractor can complete the project in just a matter of days.
The main goal here is identifying and preventing potential complications, so they don’t snowball into something bigger down the road.
When Do I Need EPDM Roof Maintenance?
Roof maintenance isn’t strictly for “when things get bad.” While your membrane might be in good condition now, it’s never a bad idea to invest in protective measures.
Many commercial roofing contractors offer recoating services, where they apply a hydrophobic protective layer onto your existing membrane. This new coat serves as a watertight seal, which delivers the following advantages:
- Fill/fix any holes in your structure
- Extra protection from the weather
- Extends your roof’s lifespan up to 15 years
Need an extra layer of protection for your rubber membrane? Seal Roofing can help. Schedule a free assessment to get started.
When Do I Need EPDM Roof Replacement?
As a total rebuild of your system, EPDM roof replacement is the most invasive out of the three services. While the most expensive choice, it’s vital once your roof is too-far-gone. While the initial price tag looks hefty, just remember it hails in comparison to sinking cash into superficial repairs.
As a helpful rule of thumb, be sure to partner with a reliable contractor. While it’s tempting to cut costs, just remember the lifespan of EPDM membranes depends on the quality of your installation. It’s a better option to pay a little more now, and avoid a premature replacement 15 years down the road.
How to Determine the Status of Your EPDM Roof Coating
Need a surefire way to find out how many years your membrane has until retirement? It’s easier than you might think. Here’s five steps that can help:
- Check for Leaks & Blistering: Leaks are often indicative of underlying problems with the membrane. If you notice any water stains on the roof surface, your ceiling, or upper walls then this could be an indication that it’s time for further preventive actions. On the other hand, blistering, also known as “bubbling,”occurs when there’s a separation between your EPDM membrane and the substrate. A variety of factors can cause this from improper installation or to old age..
- Keep Your Eye Out for Sun Damage: While they are more durable than their shingle counterparts, EPDM roofing systems are still susceptible to sun damage cracking and splitting the membrane. That’s why you need to look for any signs of sun damage, like:
- Discoloration: A yellowing of the membrane, typically.
- Fading: Darker-colored membranes losing their original shade or shine.
- Cracks: Thin, often linear openings in the rubber caused by aging, UV exposure, or physical stress.
- Splits: Larger separations in the roofing material, usually along seams, punctures, or other weak points.
- If You See Rust, Find a Contractor You Trust: Rust on nails, fasteners, or staples indicates that moisture has gotten through the membrane and caused corrosion on the underlying metal components of the roof system. Fasteners provide secure attachment points for the membrane and sealant, but they become damaged over time. That’s why it’s essential to ensure that they are not corroded or broken, as this could lead to leaks and other serious problems.
- Schedule a Professional Assessment: Whether you can get by with a simple EPDM roof patch, or your membrane approaching its last days, professional inspections save you time, money, and hassle in the long-run.
Don’t let small EPDM problems turn into big ones. Be proactive with your roof care, and schedule a free inspection with the experts.
Philly’s Top Choice for EPDM Roof Repair, Replacement, and More
For decades, Seal Roofing has helped Philadelphia businesses keep their buildings in top condition. We specialize in EPDM roof repair, replacement, maintenance, and more—all tailored to fit your unique needs.
With an experienced team of professionals on stand-by, it’s never been easier to identify the best course of action. Start a conversation today, and learn how we help extend the lifespan of your commercial roof.