EPDM Roofs

The EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) rubber roofing membrane has been an appealing choice of the low-slope commercial roofing industry for over 40 years, with more than 500,000 warranted roof installations on 20 billion-plus square feet. Annually, EPDM accounts for over 1 billion square feet of new roof coverings in the United States, and is the most frequently used roofing material in the marketplace. Building Design and Construction magazine and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) confirmed in their 2002-2003 market surveys that EPDM continues to be the number one roofing choice of architects, roof consultants and contractors for both new construction and replacement roofing projects.

Superior Performance

The greatest test of any construction material is how it performs under actual field conditions. Forty years of empirical experience in field applications has shown EPDM to have the roofing industry's longest average service life. Characteristics that contribute to this superior overall system performance include:

  • Cyclical membrane fatigue resistance
  • Proven hail resistance
  • High resistance to ozone, weathering and abrasion
  • Flexibility in low temperatures
  • Superior resistance to extreme heat and fire
  • Thermal shock durability
  • Ultraviolet radiation resistance

EPDM's high resistance to wind damage has also proven to be an increasingly desirable attribute. These roof systems can be designed to meet a variety of wind uplift criteria from Factory Mutual, including 1-60, 1-90, and 1-120 ratings and greater, and the stringent code of Dade County, Florida.
Architects, roof consultants and contractors have come to depend on EPDM's time tested, long-term performance.

For more information about the attributes of EPDM, please click here to view/download a PDF version of the EPDM Attributes Brochure.

Please note that EPDM is a commercial roofing product, designed to be used in non-residential roof systems.

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New: New independent study confirms EPDM is a leader in reducing environmental impact

New: ERA Announces Recycling of Five Million Square Feet of EPDM


July 2010 New independent study confirms EPDM is a leader in reducing environmental impact

May 2010 ERA Supports Building Star Energy Rebate Act

Mar 2010 ERA Introduces New Web Site Sections

Mar 2010 EPDM Roof Recycling - Advancing Beyond Potential

Feb 2010 ERA Announces Recycling of Five Million Square Feet of EPDM

Nov 2009 Mike Ducharme of Carlisle Syntec Named New ERA Chairman

September 2009 ERA Adds West Development Group to Recycling Council

June 2009 ERA Names Ellen Thorp as Associate Executive Director

May 2009 ERA Applauds Chicago Code Change

April 2009 ERA introduces new Affiliate Member status to assist in recycling of EPDM

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