EPDM Roofing Explained: What Homeowners Should Know

Kelly Jo Gilmore • June 8, 2026

pros and cons of epdm roofing

We are proud to offer a wide selection of roofing materials to choose from at T-J Roofing! However, we know that choosing the best materials for your next roofing project can be a daunting decision at times. Considering this, we decided to start a mini blog series explaining the roofing systems we install and the associated advantages and disadvantages with each to help our customers make the best choice for their homes, businesses, and properties. To start off this mini series is the EPDM Rubber Roof Membrane. 


Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer, frequently referred to as EPDM, is a single layer rubber roof membrane known best for its compatibility with low-slope and flat roofs. This material is typically manufactured in 45 - 91 millimeter thicknesses and 7.5 - 50 foot widths. They are then rolled into sheets making them much easier to install compared to other forms of material. EPDM rubber membranes can be installed in three distinct ways: fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. Determining which of these methods is best suited for your project depends primarily on personal price range and the building's structural requirements.


Now let's discuss the benefits of selecting an EPDM roof system. For starters, it’s one of the most cost effective materials on the market typically retailing several dollars less per sq.ft. than PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) for example. It also stands out for its longevity – lasting for around 30 - 40 years, sometimes exceeding this when it is installed correctly and receives consistent maintenance. It is suitable for both complex or simple roof shapes and structures because of how flexible the material is. Additionally, EPDM is virtually leak proof, wind and hail resistant (even in freezing temperatures), UV ray resistant, has flame retardant properties, and is 100% recyclable making it a great sustainable option. 


However, like all materials there are always costs to consider with EPDM. First and foremost, the appeal of the rubber roof membrane is not its aesthetics but rather its functionality. From higher vantage points the roof system can look bland, so if curb appeal is your reason for a new roof installation we recommend you consider our other options available. Another fact to consider is the maintenance required for non-reinforced EPDM membranes, which is important to avoid bridging or shrinkage caused by aging. Lastly while EPDM is marketed as a more economical option, customers should note the varying prices of the three installation methods. For example, a fully adhered roof will cost more than a ballasted one. 


All that being said, when you choose to do business with T-J Roofing we strive for quality workmanship and transparency which is why we are proud to say we are certified to install Versico roofing systems (EPDM, PVC, TPO, etc). This not only demonstrates our extensive experience working with these roofing membranes but also allows us to provide material warranties on the projects we complete. If you are interested in an EPDM Rubber Roof or have related questions be sure to give our office a call! 


Websites used during our research: reliable-roofing.com, epdmroofs.org, Versico.com 

White house with unique roofline and garage, surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.

Roofing 101 - A Homeowner's Guide to Roofing Terminology

July 21, 2025
Have you ever felt as though roofers have their own language? As a specialized trade, it’s not an exaggeration to admit that we often do! With this in mind, it is important that homeowners familiarize themselves with some commonly used roofing terminology to ensure that nothing is “lost in translation” in their next run in with a contractor, estimator, or foreman. Being well versed in some basic roofing terms enables informed decision making, allows for better evaluation of roofing estimates, helps you to identify issues early on, and overall protects your investment on your home and roof. Here is the Anatomy of a Roof according to Owens Corning, see diagram here ! Roof Ridge: The intersection of two sides of the roof, creating a high point on the roof (also called the peak). Ridge Vent: A vent that runs along the roof ridge which allows for humid air to escape from your home’s attic and facilitates proper ventilation. Hip: The intersection of two sides of a roof that form a slope from the ridge to the eave. It is similar to the ridge but instead of forming at the highest point of the roof, the hip slopes downward instead of horizontally. Valley: An intersection of two roof planes that create a v-shaped angle and is designed to help with water runoff. Roof Deck: The structural foundation for the roof. The deck is commonly made of plywood. Roofing Underlayment: A material layer, usually of felt or synthetic underlayment, that sits between the decking and shingles and acts like an additional layer of protection. Synthetic underlayment does an excellent job at repelling moisture in comparison to felt and is much more durable. Flashing: Placed around joints, surrounding chimneys, and any other fixtures and helps to protect against water damage. Flashing is a metal material. Shingle: Asphalt shingles are made of multiple tabs to not only add dimension but durability to your roof. Shingles make up the top layer of your roof and are the first line of defense against the elements. Drip Edge: A small piece of metal that is installed near the rake and eave and helps with water runoff. Rake: The rake (sometimes called a gable) is the triangular section of the exterior wall at the peak of the roof between an eave and the roof Eave: Lower board of roof that overhangs the exterior walls. Ice and Water Barrier: Waterproof material that is installed along eaves, valleys, side walls, etc. to protect against water damage. Roof Slope: The steepness of a roof. Most commonly expressed as the ratio of the vertical rise over horizontal run. Roof Pitch: Very similar to roof slope except the pitch is calculated using the entire span of the roof (its width) while slope can be calculated using only a small section. The pitch of a roof is exclusively a roofing term and is used more often than slope. Roof Square: A roofing square refers to 100 square feet of roof area. It is a standard unit used in the roofing industry and by roofing contractors to simplify calculations and material estimates. Buckling: A visual sign of roof damage or aging characterized by the wrinkling or curling of shingles. ​ Now that you are familiar with the basics of roofing, feel free to use this blog as your future reference for when you come across a term you’re unfamiliar with. This blog post was inspired by Owens Corning and their blog article on the anatomy of a roof. Is there a roofing term you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments and we will be sure to update the page!
House with gray siding and stone facade, white garage door, and a clear blue sky.

Above and Beyond! Roofing for Longevity and Looks

June 25, 2025
Deciding to replace your roof is a decision that requires both time and deliberation. When making this decision most homeowners spend their energy factoring in things like shingle type, durability, and the new roof’s warranty, often forgetting that it can also be an investment in the overall stylistic design of the home. That is not to say the logistical factors are unimportant; arguably they are the most crucial elements to consider when replacing a roof. However, for the homeowners who want both the functionality and pleasing aesthetics of a new roof this can be an exciting and creative process! As a proud CertainTeed and Owens Corning preferred contractor, we carry a wide selection of shingle colors and architectural lines to choose from. Click here to see CertainTeed’s selection or here for Owens Corning. We are happy to meet with you in our office located in Temperance, Michigan to show you our variety of display shingles to help you make the decision that is best for you and your home’s personal style. On that note, according to CertainTeed’s article on Home Style & Architectural Design , there are a few things to take into consideration when deciding on the perfect color for your home’s new roof: The architectural design of a structure can dictate what palettes work best to bring out the natural essence of the building. A Colonial or Victorian home style is often complimented by a more colorful palette whereas a contemporary home design will benefit from something more neutral. Take a look at your surrounding neighborhood and consider the aesthetics of nearby homes. Although it is nice to think outside the box, sometimes the palette of neighboring houses or buildings can clash if their colors do not compliment each other, and which risks your home appearing out of place. It might also be helpful to take a fixed element of your home into account. Is there a brick chimney stack on the exterior of your home? Or is there unique stone or wood work? These external features can influence your decision as well. All this being said, the most important thing to bear in mind when deciding on your roof’s color is your own personal preference and needs. Replacing and altering the color of your roof is a long term investment so it is important to choose a color palette and design that you are comfortable with, and will continue to be years down the road. Here at T-J we are committed to helping each customer make the best decision for themselves and their home. ​ Interested in visualizing your home’s new look? Check out CertainTeed’s ColorView tool, which allows you to upload images of your home and envision your future design in minutes!
Close-up of a dark asphalt shingle roof, with a blurred background of houses on a sunny day.

CertainTeed Governor's Award - Why it matters!

June 25, 2025
Establishing trustworthy relationships with our customers is one of our top priorities at T-J Roofing. Home improvement projects can be a daunting task, which is why our goal as a licensed and insured contractor is to give you peace of mind when you choose to do business with us. T-J Roofing is a CertainTeed Governor’s Award recipient, meaning our business has been recognized for our commitment to quality workmanship, exceptional customer service, and professional development. Being awarded with this merit is no easy task - Governor’s Award recipients must first be credentialed contractors with CertainTeed for five or more years, while also maintaining a high customer satisfaction track record. In addition, they must also be recognized in their respective state for achieving a certain number of warranty sales, displaying an true understanding of CertainTeed products. This award signifies T-J Roofing’s ongoing commitment to delivering dependable, satisfactory work to you and your roof. We are a proud, CertainTeed LLC credentialed contractor serving SE Michigan and NW Ohio for 40 years. For more information please visit our CertainTeed Profile or click here to read CertainTeed’s “Why credentialing matters” blog to learn more.
Roofers working on a building roof, removing old shingles and installing new ones; aerial view.

Testimonials

May 14, 2025
"T-J Roofing & Sheet Metal LLC did an excellent job on our roof replacement. Professional, timely, and the quality of work was outstanding. Highly recommend them for any roofing needs!" 
T-J Roofing Team

Why T-J Roofing

May 3, 2025
Choosing your shingle manufacturer, style and color is important, but choosing the right Roofing Contractor may be the most important roofing choice you need to consider. Your roof is the primary “protector” of your home. T-J Roofing will stand beside you throughout the Life Cycle of your roof. T-J Roofing has been in business locally since 1983 and we will continue to be here as long as customers like you rely on us for that protection. Your complete roofing satisfaction is our #1 priority, because our good reputation is what keeps us in business. Safety at T-J Roofing is paramount and we pride ourselves on having continuous safety awareness. A safe jobsite creates the setting for an above average finished product that will protect your home for years to come. We value the safety of our customers and workers. We will protect your home during the roofing process. We will do everything we can to ensure nothing is damaged by us during the roofing process by covering landscape, decks, A/C units and other items that cannot be moved. Roofing is a tough job and accidents can happen, that is why we take these extra steps. If something is damaged by us, we will make necessary repairs and/or replacement. We are licensed and insured. We will be with you long after the “sale” and will do all we can to answer all of your questions during this phase of the process. There may be something that was forgotten or comes up along the way; we are always here to answer those questions. Our workers, sales team and project managers continue their education by participating in online classes, manufacturer’s onsite training and T-J Roofing on the job training. If we do not have an answer, we will research to find it. The T-J Roofing management and office staff have a combined roofing experience of over 60 years. As well as steep slope shingle roofs we also install a number of low slope roofing options. If you have a roof area where the slope is too low for shingles, T-J Roofing has an answer. We have installed reinforced PVC commercial roofing membranes for more than 36 years. We also offer EPDM (Rubber) and modified bitumen membranes surfaced with colored ceramic granules to match your shingle color. Keep it cool. Balanced ventilation will give your roof the longest life possible. When vents are installed at the eaves and ridge of the roof, they provide continuous air circulation in the attic from the floor level to the top of the roof. Moisture laden air then joins in with the air current flowing freely outdoors helping to prevent condensation and water damage. While we are measuring, we will be calculating how much roof ventilation your home requires and present that to you with your proposal. ​ A great project should have a great warranty. We work with our manufacturers regularly to offer the most current warranties. We offer warranties that are built into your roofing proposal. We do all the homework and paperwork so that you can rest easy knowing if you have a problem, you are covered. Most of our systems come with 40 to 50 year manufacturer’s warranty on material. A 10 year workmanship warranty from T-J Roofing arrives in your mailbox shortly after installation is complete. These warranties are transferable with the sale of the home within the first 10 years of the warranty.