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Is White EPDM Roofing Material Right For Your Climate?

Posted on : October 2, 2024

Is White EPDM Roofing Material Right For Your Climate?

EPDM roofs have always been a popular choice for commercial buildings. While traditionally having a black color, EPDM also comes in white. White EPDM roofs are known for their heat-reflecting properties, making them beneficial for a range of commercial uses. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we have been providing professional, durable roofing services to homeowners and commercial building owners in our community for years. We always aim to provide valuable information that you might need as a building owner, so with this complete guide, we’ll discuss what makes white EPDM a suitable option for certain climate conditions. After reading, you should have a better idea of whether or not you want to choose white EPDM for your building.

How White EPDM Roofs Perform In Different Weather

To help determine whether white or black EPDM is the best option for your climate, you’ll analyze the performance of white EPDM roofs in various weather conditions:

1. Hot and Humid Summers

White EPDM performs well when it's hot out. The white surface reflects the sun’s rays, keeping your building cooler. This means your air conditioning doesn't have to work as hard, which saves you money. If you live in a city where it gets extra hot or even humid, a white EPDM roof can help you maintain interior temperatures.

2. Cold and Snowy Weather

White EPDM rubber roofing membranes do just as well in the cold too. It is a very durable material, known for its flexibility and resistance to cracking even in low temperatures. This makes it a reliable choice for regions with cold winters and freeze-thaw cycles. However, unlike its traditional-colored membrane, white EPDM reflects rather than absorbs heat, adding no benefit in terms of enhanced energy efficiency in cold weather. 

3. Rain & Wind

EPDM roofs are effective roofing solutions for areas that receive frequent rainfall. No matter what the color is, all EPDM roofing solutions offer equal results when facing rain. 

The same can be said for wind. Like a black EPDM roof, a white one can also handle strong winds pretty well. It's made to stay in its place, even when the wind tries to lift it up. Just make sure it's installed accurately, with all the edges sealed tight.

5. Hailstorms

White EPDM roofing membranes are tough enough to take some hits from hail. While really big hailstones will damage any roofing system, EPDM roofs usually hold up well in most hailstorms, no matter the color.

When Is It Best To Avoid White EPDM?

While white EPDM roofs can work in various types of climates,  there are some circumstances where you might want to choose a regular EPDM membrane. Let’s take a look at some of the situations in which you should not use a white roofing membrane 

White EPDM

1. Extremely Cold Climates

While white EPDM performs well in cold weather, in regions with extremely harsh winters and prolonged periods of snow and ice, a darker EPDM roof might be more beneficial. The capability for a regular black EPDM roof to effectively absorb heat can help melt snow and ice, potentially reducing the load on the roof and minimizing the risk of ice dams.

2. Budget Constraints

White EPDM generally has a slightly higher upfront cost compared to black EPDM. If budget is a major concern, black EPDM might be a more cost-effective option. However, it's important to weigh the long-term energy savings potential of white EPDM against the initial cost difference.

3. Shaded Roofs

If your roof receives a lot of shade from trees or surrounding buildings, the reflective benefits of white EPDM will be significantly reduced. In situations like this, a black EPDM roof might be equally effective and more cost-efficient.

4. Color Preferences

While white EPDM is a popular choice, there are other various colors available for this material. If you prefer any specific color to match your building's appearance, you might consider a colored EPDM roof or explore alternative roofing materials.   

How Do You Save Money On Your New White EPDM Roof?

Here are a few tips you can use to save money on a new white EPDM roofing membrane:

👉 You can simply coat your existing EPDM roof with a white roof coating, reducing the costs associated with a full membrane replacement. You can easily find white coatings for EPDM roofs on the market. 

👉 Proper insulation is important to increase energy efficiency and minimize heating/cooling costs.

👉 Check for potential tax incentives or rebates for energy-efficient roofing upgrades.

👉 Choose high-quality materials and rely on professional installation to avoid needing to repair mistakes in the future.

👉 You need to prioritize routine maintenance to extend the lifespan of your building’s roof and prevent expensive replacements.

Also Read: White EPDM Roofing vs. Black EPDM: Which One is Better

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing For A Durable EPDM Roof Installation In Pittsburgh, PA

When it comes to protecting your home or commercial building, a reliable roof is important. If you're looking for a professional EPDM roof installation in Pittsburgh, PA, or the nearby areas, we're here to help. 

Our team specializes in custom roofing solutions that will fit your specific requirements, whether you're looking for a new installation, complete replacement, or just some repairs.

As one of the top-rated roofing companies in Pennsylvania, we take pride in delivering exceptional service to each and every customer. Our expertise covers a wide range of roofing materials, including TPO, asphalt shingles, EPDM, and metal.

To learn more about our services or get a personalized quote for your roofing needs, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660. We're ready to help you secure the quality roof you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

A.Yes, white EPDM is generally considered more environmentally friendly. Its heat-reflective properties reduce the urban heat island effect and lower energy costs, which in turn reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Some white EPDM products may also be made with recycled content or be recyclable themselves.

A. While EPDM is considered a DIY-friendly roofing material, it's recommended to hire a professional roofing contractor for installation. Accurate installation is very important for the durability and performance of your roof, and professionals have the experience to do the job right.

A.Routine inspections and maintenance are key to maximizing the lifespan of your white EPDM roof. This includes:

Cleaning: Remove debris, leaves, and dirt regularly to prevent ponding water and algae growth.

Inspections: Check for any signs of damage, such as punctures, tears, or seam separation, and repair them promptly.

Coating: Consider applying a reflective roof coating every few years to maintain its reflectivity and extend its life.

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