EPDM Roofing
For Flat Roofs.

EPDM is one of the more affordable flat-roof options, a big reason it's so widely used. Your cost depends on the roof's size, the membrane thickness, the condition of the surface underneath, the number of penetrations and drains, and how the membrane is attached — fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. Adding or upgrading insulation under the membrane affects the price too, but it often pays for itself in a cold climate. Larger commercial roofs cost more in total but usually less per square foot than small, complex ones. We'll inspect the roof and give you a written estimate with a clear breakdown before any work begins.

A well-installed EPDM roof runs 20 to 30 years, sometimes longer with good upkeep. It depends on the install, how well the seams and flashing were sealed, and whether the roof drains properly. Our freeze-thaw is hard on flat roofs, but EPDM's flexibility helps it outlast brittle materials. A thicker membrane and good drainage also push toward the upper end, while standing water and neglected seams pull the other way. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of small issues go a long way toward getting every year out of it.

It's well suited to cold like ours. Where some materials grow brittle and crack, EPDM stays flexible and handles freeze-thaw without splitting, and it takes the weight of heavy snow as long as the structure and drainage are sound. Its black surface can even help snow and ice melt and drain a little faster on sunny winter days. The one thing to stay ahead of is roof drains freezing shut, which is why we set the roof to drain well and recommend keeping the drains clear heading into winter.

Both are single-ply flat-roof membranes, but they differ. EPDM is rubber, usually black, prized for flexibility, a long track record, and excellent cold-weather performance. TPO is plastic-based, usually white, with a reflective surface that can trim summer cooling costs. EPDM tends to excel in cold and freeze-thaw; TPO offers energy savings through reflectivity. The right call depends on your building, priorities, and budget, and we'll lay out the trade-offs during your estimate.

Yes, and that's one of its advantages — it's one of the easier membranes to repair. A puncture, a lifting seam, or a small split can usually be patched or resealed without redoing the roof, which keeps upkeep affordable. Catching small problems early is the key to its full lifespan. During our inspection we'll flag any trouble spots and tell you whether a targeted repair will serve you or the membrane has reached replacement.

Ponding usually points to a slope or drainage problem. Flat roofs aren't truly flat, they're built with a slight slope to move water to drains. When that slope is inadequate, the drains are clogged, or the structure has settled, water collects and sits, stressing the membrane and shortening its life through freeze-thaw. We'll find why it's pooling and recommend a fix — clearing drains, adding tapered insulation to improve slope, or addressing the membrane.

It's an excellent one. On the flat or low-slope parts of a house — garages, porches, additions, dormers — where shingles won't shed water properly, EPDM gives the same long-lasting, watertight protection a good roof should. The membrane blends in, handles our weather, and is easy to maintain. If a flat section has been giving you trouble, EPDM is often the answer, and we'll inspect it and tell you whether it's the best fit.

Depends on the cause. Damage from a sudden event — storm, hail, or wind — may be covered; damage from age and wear usually isn't. Commercial and residential policies differ, so the specifics matter. If storm damage is part of your situation, we'll inspect, document what we find, and help you work the claim, and we'll give you an honest read on whether it's the kind insurance typically covers.