EPDM roofing is an acronym describing essentially a rubber-type material that is installed on flat roofs. Read on to learn why it isn’t just the roof size that determines EPDM roofing cost.
Common EPDM Rubber Roof Repairs
Learn how to keep your home’s EPDM rubber roof in tip-top shape
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Your EPDM rubber roof can develop rips from falling tree branches or HVAC maintenance work, and even small tears let water inside if not properly sealed.
Professional EPDM roof repairs cost around $500 per square foot for replacement, while minor patching kits start at $25 for small DIY fixes.
Schedule annual or biannual professional roof inspections to catch shrinkage, punctures, and damaged flashing before they turn into water damage and costly repairs.
Hiring a local rubber roofing professional provides expert help with seam sealing and proper EPDM patching, keeping your roof watertight for years to come.
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A popular choice for homes with flat or low-sloped roofs—in northern climates especially— is ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). This roofing material is made of recycled tires, sawdust, and slate, and is known for its durability in harsh winters. But that doesn’t mean EPDM is impervious to rips, leaks, and other kinds of damage. Here’s how to patch and repair your EPDM rubber roof so that it lasts for years to come.
Start With Regular Roof Inspections
Every year or two, have an experienced professional climb up on your EPDM roof and do a thorough visual inspection. This is one of the best ways to keep your roof in good shape because you’ll be able to catch any emerging problems before they turn into significant damage. You may also want to book an inspection after a severe weather event or if any moderately-sized branches hit the roof. A pro will check for signs of shrinkage of the roofing membrane, punctures or rips, and damaged or improperly installed flashing. These tears are difficult to see without a trained eye, which is why a pro inspection is helpful.
Something to keep in mind—it’s pretty common for HVAC equipment to be placed on top of flat roofs that have EPDM. When workers are performing maintenance on the HVAC equipment, it's easy for them to damage the EPDM with tools.
Mend Rips and Tears Promptly
EPDM rubber roofs generally hold up to the elements well. But they can rip if large tree branches or other debris fall on them.
You may be able to fix a minor rip yourself using a rubber sealant patching kit, which can cost as little as $25 according to HomeAdvisor. But even the smallest tear can let water in if it isn’t properly mended. And if the rip is more than a few inches in length or width, it’s advisable to hire a rubber roofing professional, who will repair it using a new piece of EPDM. They’ll make sure the patched area is sealed properly so it keeps out water and lasts as long as possible.
Patch and Seal Seams to Stop Leaks
Damage from falling objects isn’t the only reason an EPDM rubber roof can spring a leak. Over time, the seams between sheets of EPDM can develop gaps, allowing water to infiltrate and threaten your roof’s integrity. Improperly installed or damaged flashing can also lead to leaks.
Patching a roof leak on your rubber roof can be a DIY job if you’re comfortable working with materials like lap sealant. You should not try to repair an EPDM roof with regular roof sealant or other aftermarket products. Using the correct materials will ensure that it properly adheres to the EPDM. But hiring a pro will ensure the work is done right, so you won’t have to deal with water damage later.
DIY or Hire a Pro?
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If you’re not comfortable being up high and moving around your roof, it’s best to avoid attempting a DIY roof repair or inspection. Either way, all but the smallest repair tasks should be left to professional roofers who have specific experience with EPDM roofing materials.
If your EPDM roof has extensive damage, your pro may recommend replacing it. A new EPDM rubber roof costs approximately $500 per square foot, although supply chain problems and delivery delays can drive up the price.
Roofing services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.3★ avg. • 120 total reviews
- Chance R.
D1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLC - Jeremy P.
This place took $25,000 for a flat roof job with a five-year warranty and never returned to fix the leaks that were caused by their work. These people are not professionals and should not be doing this type of work. They incorrectly changed the pitch of the roof, and caused more damage than...
- David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Kevin S.
I am really impressed with their timeliness and turnaround. Mitchell came out, and we decided to move forward with their pricing. Our roof was on within a week, and we could not be happier with their team! Amazing company, great prices and honest, dependable craftsmanship. I highly recommend...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Rob B.
Manuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
- Julie K.
They damaged multiple items on my property, including a marble slab used as a table top, tried to hide it, and refused to pay or replace. Arrived day one without a ladder to access roof & delayed a day. Left a mess in back yard; didn't wear face masks; no show by owner to property to see damages
Grants Tree Service - Marcia L.
I've hired Gary/Cherokee Roofing for two different homes, work quality, responsiveness, and completion have been great both times. And the prices quoted were very competitive. I would definitely hire again.
- Paul F.
Lyle did a great job removing asbestos shingles from our front porch roof. They worked together with our roofer to make sure that the new roof was able to be installed on the same day that Lyle removed the asbestos shingles.
Lyle Environmental - Paul F.
Bradley Builders did a good job replacing the roof on our front porch. They color-matched the existing shingles on the rest of the house and installed a metal ridge roll since we live in a historical neighborhood. They did the job while we were out of town. When we got back, everything was...
Bradley Builders, Inc. - Madison B.
I would absolutely recommend this business. They offer a variety of services, including: painting, roofing, and refinishing wood flooring. I hired them to refinish the original hardwood flooring in my home built in 1874. The job was quite challenging, as the floors were extremely aged and...
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