If you own or manage a commercial building, you know how critical your roof is to protecting everything underneath it. It’s not just the “hat” of your building—it’s the first line of defense against Wisconsin’s wild weather. That’s why a growing number of property owners are turning to EPDM rubber roofing.
At New Roofs Inc., we’ve been installing and maintaining EPDM roofing systems for years, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of our top recommendations. Let’s see what it is, what it does well, and what to watch out for.
What Is EPDM?
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (yes, it’s a mouthful). Basically, it’s a tough, flexible synthetic rubber that’s been around since the 1960s. It was originally designed to be an alternative to natural rubber, and these days it’s used in everything from car parts to seals and—most importantly—roofs.
It’s especially popular for flat and low-slope commercial roofs like you’d find on warehouses, office buildings, and retail spaces.
Why EPDM Rocks (The Pros)
✔️ Long Life, Low Fuss
When properly installed by pros like us, an EPDM roof can last 25 to 50 years. That’s not a typo. It holds up against UV rays, hail, snow, rain, and even fire. We’ve seen these roofs take a beating and come out looking the same.
✔️ Energy-Efficient
If you’re tired of sky-high cooling bills in the summer, EPDM can help. It comes not only in black but also in white (and other light colors), and that reflective surface helps keep your building cooler. Less heat means your A/C doesn’t have to work as hard—saving you money on energy bills and equipment wear and tear.
✔️ Environmentally Friendly
EPDM is made with recycled materials, and it’s recyclable at the end of its life. So not only are you making a smart business move—you’re doing right by the planet, too.
✔️ Easy to Maintain and Repair
EPDM is super low-maintenance. But if a repair is needed—like a small tear or puncture—it’s typically easy to patch, especially compared to other materials like TPO or metal.
What’s the Catch? (The Cons)
⚠️ Seams Can Be a Weak Spot
Traditional EPDM roofing comes in rolls that are seamed together, and seams can be trouble spots if not installed correctly. Poor installation can lead to water infiltration over time.
The good news? Newer spray-applied EPDM options reduce or eliminate seams altogether, cutting down the risk of leaks. At New Roofs Inc., we stay up-to-date on the latest tech and application methods, including spray systems when appropriate.
⚠️ Not Every Roofer Can Handle It
Installing EPDM isn’t like putting up shingles—it takes experience and precision. Unfortunately, not every roofing company has the skills or training to do it right. That’s where we come in.
New Roofs Inc. has a proven track record with EPDM installations in this area. We know how to properly install, seam, and finish these roofs so they last.
EPDM vs. The Alternatives
Wondering how EPDM stacks up to other roofing options?
- Metal Roofing – Durable and fire-resistant, but can rust and is more expensive to install and maintain.
- TPO and PVC (Single-Ply) – Also energy-efficient but more prone to punctures and often cost more.
- Asphalt Roofing – Cheaper upfront but has a shorter lifespan and needs more maintenance.
- EPDM – Affordable, tough, flexible, and long-lasting. It’s a strong all-around performer with fewer headaches long-term.
Built for Wisconsin Weather
One of the reasons we love EPDM at New Roofs Inc. is because it handles Wisconsin’s seasons like a champ. It stays flexible in freezing temps, shrugs off snow and ice, and doesn’t crack or peel under the blazing summer sun.
Plus, it resists mold, moss, and even chemicals. So whether your building is downtown or in an industrial zone, EPDM has you covered (no pun intended).
Is EPDM Right for You?
If you’re looking for a roofing system that’s:
- Cost-effective over the long haul
- Environmentally friendly
- Low-maintenance
- Weather-tough
- Energy-efficient
…then EPDM rubber roofing might just be your building’s best friend.
At New Roofs Inc., we’re proud to install EPDM systems that are built to last. We don’t cut corners, and we always make sure you get the right system for your needs—installed the right way the first time.
Whether you’re building new or replacing an aging roof, our team at New Roofs Inc. is here to help. We’ll walk you through your options, explain the pros and cons in plain language, and make sure you get the roof that makes the most sense for your business.
Call us today for a free consultation, or visit New Roofs Inc. to learn more.