EPDM Roofing Chicago FAQs

Question 1

What is EPDM roofing?

Accepted Answer

EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane used on low slope commercial roofs. It is usually black, comes in large sheets, and is joined at the seams with adhesive or seam tape.

Question 2

What does EPDM stand for?

Accepted Answer

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, the synthetic rubber the membrane is made from.

Question 3

How long does an EPDM roof last?

Accepted Answer

Lifespan depends on membrane thickness, installation quality, drainage, and maintenance. A well installed EPDM roof that is inspected and maintained on schedule can perform for decades.

Question 4

Can an EPDM roof be repaired instead of replaced?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Seam separation, punctures, and flashing problems can usually be repaired without replacing the whole roof. An inspection shows whether repairs make sense or the roof is near the end of its life.

Question 5

Can an EPDM roof be coated?

Accepted Answer

Many EPDM roofs that are still structurally sound are good candidates for a coating applied as part of a commercial roof restoration. It can add years of service without a full tear off.

Question 6

Is EPDM better than TPO?

Accepted Answer

Neither is best for every building. EPDM stays flexible in the cold and patches well as it ages, while TPO has a reflective surface and heat welded seams. Our TPO vs EPDM guide walks through the differences.

Question 7

Does black EPDM meet Chicago's cool roof code?

Accepted Answer

Standard black EPDM falls short of the city's reflectance requirement for low slope roofs on its own. Ballasted systems, white EPDM, and other approaches follow a different path, so the requirement should be confirmed before a new roof or replacement is quoted.

Question 8

What causes EPDM roof leaks?

Accepted Answer

Most EPDM leaks start at seams, flashing, and penetrations around rooftop equipment. Shrinkage, punctures, and ponding water can also open the membrane up over time.

Question 9

Does RMV Roofing install EPDM with its own crews?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RMV Roofing is a self performing contractor, so our own crews handle every EPDM project from the first inspection through the final walkthrough.

Question 10

How do I schedule an EPDM roof inspection in Chicago?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the form on this page or email info@rmvroofing.com. Commercial roof inspections are free, and we follow up with a written report on what we found.