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Professional EPDM Roofing Services
EPDM Roofing Services
In the demanding climate of the Ohio Valley, selecting a roofing material that can endure both heavy snow loads and scorching summer heat is a strategic business decision. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer), commonly referred to as “rubber roofing,” has been the backbone of the commercial roofing industry for over 60 years. At Mid Ohio Roofing, we leverage our 25+ years of experience to install high-performance EPDM roofing systems that provide unmatched durability for warehouses, retail centers, and industrial facilities.
As a family-owned and operated commercial roofing contractor, we understand that your facility’s roof is a critical shield for your inventory and operations. Whether you are in Mt Perry, Newark, or Zanesville, our team provides the technical precision required to ensure your EPDM system reaches its full 30-to-50-year service life.
What is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane known for its incredible elasticity and resistance to environmental stressors. Unlike thermoplastic systems that rely on heat-welded seams, EPDM is a thermoset material, meaning its molecular structure is “set” during manufacturing, making it nearly impervious to UV radiation and ozone.
Core Advantages of EPDM Systems
- Exceptional Longevity: According to 2026 data from the EPDM Roofing Association (ERA), properly maintained EPDM membranes now have an expected service life of 38 years, with some installations exceeding 50 years.
- Extreme Weather Pliability: EPDM remains flexible at temperatures as low as -45°F. This is a vital feature for Central Ohio, where thermal shock (rapid temperature changes) can cause other materials to become brittle and crack.
- Cost-Efficient Maintenance: EPDM is one of the easiest materials to maintain and repair. Even decades after the initial roofing project, new rubber can be easily bonded to the existing membrane to seal punctures or address roof leaks.
- Hail Resistance: The rubber composition naturally absorbs the impact of hailstones. High-thickness EPDM (90-mil) can often withstand hail up to 2 inches in diameter without sustaining a breach.
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Our Services
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Our crews are trained in the latest safety protocols, material handling, and installation techniques. Each member is vetted, insured, and committed to getting the job done right the first time. We frequently complete OSHA-certified safety training and maintain up-to-date licenses.
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EPDM vs. TPO vs. PVC — Complete Flat Roof Membrane Comparison for Central Ohio Commercial Properties
Selecting the right flat roof membrane for your Central Ohio commercial property is one of the most consequential decisions you will make as a business owner or property manager — and the right answer depends on far more than price alone. This comprehensive side-by-side comparison helps Ohio property owners evaluate the three most commonly installed commercial membrane systems across every factor that matters for long-term performance and value.
Comparison Factor | EPDM | TPO | PVC |
Primary Material | Synthetic rubber — thermoset membrane | Thermoplastic polyolefin — single-ply membrane | Polyvinyl chloride — single-ply membrane |
Estimated Lifespan | 25 – 50 years | 20 – 30 years | 20 – 30 years |
Seam Method | Taped or glued — requires skilled application | Heat-welded — strongest seam available | Heat-welded — equal to TPO seam strength |
Ohio Freeze-Thaw Performance | Excellent — flexible to -45°F without cracking | Very Good — flexible but less so than EPDM | Good — less flexible than EPDM in extreme cold |
Summer Energy Efficiency | Fair — dark surface absorbs solar heat | Excellent — white surface reflects UV rays | Excellent — white surface reflects UV rays |
Winter Energy Efficiency | Good — dark surface absorbs solar heat reducing heating costs | Fair — white surface reflects winter solar gain | Fair — white surface reflects winter solar gain |
Puncture Resistance | Moderate — susceptible to foot traffic damage | High — reinforced fabric scrim layer | High — reinforced fabric scrim layer |
Chemical Resistance | Moderate — limited grease resistance | Good — resists most commercial chemicals | Excellent — superior grease and chemical resistance |
Repairability | Excellent — easiest membrane to patch and repair | Moderate — requires heat welding for seam repair | Moderate — requires heat welding for seam repair |
Upfront Installation Cost | Moderate — competitive with TPO | Moderate — most cost-effective energy efficient option | Higher — premium material cost over TPO and EPDM |
Long-Term Cost of Ownership | Very Low — long lifespan with minimal maintenance | Low — energy savings offset installation cost | Low — excellent durability reduces repair frequency |
Best Property Type | Large industrial buildings, cold climate applications | Warehouses, retail, office buildings | Restaurants, chemical plants, food processing |
Hail Resistance | Good — rubber composition absorbs hail impact | High — reinforced scrim resists puncture | High — reinforced scrim resists puncture |
White Coating Option | Yes — reflective coating available for energy upgrade | Standard white — no coating needed | Standard white — no coating needed |
Best Ohio Climate Fit | Best for Ohio winters — freeze-thaw champion | Best for Ohio summers — energy efficiency leader | Best for chemical exposure environments |
EPDM Installation Methods for Central Ohio Businesses
A commercial roofing contractor’s skill is most evident in how they secure the membrane to the roof deck. At Mid Ohio Roofing, we utilize three primary installation methods tailored to your building’s structural needs:
Fully Adhered Systems
In a fully adhered installation, the EPDM membrane is glued directly to the insulation or substrate using high-strength liquid adhesives.
- Best For: Buildings with unusual shapes or those in high-wind areas.
- Benefit: This is the most aesthetically pleasing “smooth” look and offers the highest resistance to wind uplift.
Mechanically Attached Systems
This method uses heavy-duty screws and plates to fasten the membrane through the insulation and into the deck.
- Best For: Large-scale warehouse roofing where speed and cost-efficiency are priorities.
- Benefit: It is a lightweight solution that doesn’t add significant “dead load” to your building’s structure.
Ballasted Systems
The membrane is laid loosely over the substrate and then weighed down with large river stones or concrete pavers.
- Best For: Very large, flat roof areas that can support the extra weight.
- Benefit: This is often the most economical installation method and provides excellent fire protection and UV shielding.
EPDM Cost and Performance Metrics
When budgeting for a roof replacement, EPDM consistently offers one of the lowest life-cycle costs in the industry. While TPO may offer better summer reflectivity, EPDM’s dark surface can actually reduce heating costs during Ohio’s long winters by absorbing solar thermal energy.
Feature | EPDM (Standard Black) | EPDM (Reinforced/White) |
Est. Cost (Installed) | $5.00 – $8.50 per sq. ft. | $7.50 – $11.00 per sq. ft. |
Puncture Resistance | Moderate | High |
Solar Reflectivity | Low (Absorbs Heat) | High (Reflects Heat) |
Average Lifespan | 25 – 35 Years | 30 – 45 Years |
According to the U.S. Department of Energy — Cool Roofs, commercial roofing systems that incorporate proper insulation and reflective membrane options can meaningfully reduce a building’s annual energy consumption, with the DOE also noting that dark roofing surfaces like black EPDM can reduce winter heating costs by absorbing solar heat, offering a distinct seasonal energy advantage for Central Ohio commercial buildings that experience significantly more heating degree days than cooling degree days throughout the year.
Specialized EPDM Roof Repair and Maintenance
The number one cause of EPDM failure is not the material itself, but the seams. Because EPDM seams are sealed with specialized tapes or adhesives rather than heat-welds, they require professional monitoring.
Our roof inspections focus on “probing” every inch of your roof’s seams to identify “voids” before they allow water to saturate your insulation. If we detect issues early, we can perform a roof repair that costs a fraction of a full replacement. We also provide emergency roofing services for storm-damaged facilities in Mt Perry and the surrounding 50-mile radius.
Why Property Owners Choose Mid Ohio Roofing
- Family Owned & Locally Accountable — As a family-run Ohio business with deep roots in Central Ohio, we approach every EPDM roofing project with the personal care, honest communication, and community accountability that national roofing chains simply cannot match.
- Fully Insured — Our comprehensive insurance coverage protects your commercial property, your building contents, and our crew on every EPDM roofing installation, repair, or replacement project from start to final walkthrough.
- 25+ Years of Roofing Experience — Two and a half decades of hands-on commercial roofing experience across Central and Southeast Ohio means we understand exactly what EPDM systems require — from proper adhesive application and seam splicing to drainage design and freeze-thaw performance management.
- Quality EPDM Materials from Trusted Manufacturers — We install EPDM membranes from industry-leading manufacturers, ensuring every system we install on your building is backed by proven material performance and full manufacturer warranty eligibility.
- Ohio Freeze-Thaw Climate Expertise — We know from decades of Central Ohio roofing experience that EPDM’s exceptional flexibility in cold temperatures is its greatest local advantage, and we install every system to maximize that performance through Ohio’s most demanding seasonal conditions.
- Workmanship Warranty on Qualifying Projects — Every qualifying EPDM roofing project is backed by workmanship warranty coverage, giving you long-term confidence in the quality of our installation well after our crew leaves your property.
- Manufacturer Warranty Options on Qualifying Systems — The EPDM systems we install carry manufacturer warranty options on qualifying projects, providing your commercial roof with long-term material protection backed by the manufacturer’s own guarantee.
Common EPDM Roof Problems in Ohio — Causes, Signs & Recommended Solutions
Understanding the most common EPDM roofing problems, and what causes them, helps Central Ohio business owners and property managers catch issues early, respond appropriately, and avoid the premature system failure that results from deferred maintenance. This diagnostic guide covers the issues Mid Ohio Roofing encounters most frequently on EPDM roofs across the region.
Problem | Primary Cause | Warning Signs | Recommended Solution | Urgency Level |
Seam Adhesion Failure | Age, moisture during installation, or poor initial application | Visible seam lifting, water staining near seam lines, active leak at seam | Professional seam re-taping or re-bonding with primer and cover tape | High — schedule repair promptly |
Membrane Shrinkage | Material aging causing rubber to contract and pull at edges and flashings | Flashing pulling away from walls, membrane tension visible at perimeter | Professional assessment — flashing repair or membrane resetting | High — shrinkage accelerates flashing failure |
Ponding Water | Inadequate drainage design or clogged drains and scuppers | Standing water remaining on roof surface more than 48 hours | Drain clearing — tapered insulation installation — drainage redesign | Moderate to High — ponding accelerates membrane degradation |
Membrane Punctures | Foot traffic, HVAC service work, or falling debris | Visible holes or tears in membrane surface | EPDM patch repair using compatible rubber patch and adhesive | High — punctures allow immediate water entry |
Membrane Blistering | Trapped moisture or air beneath membrane during installation | Raised bubbles or blisters on membrane surface | Professional assessment — puncture and re-bond or section replacement | Moderate — monitor and inspect promptly |
Flashing Failure | UV degradation, thermal cycling, or poor original installation | Water staining at wall base, visible flashing separation, active leak | Flashing replacement with compatible EPDM flashing material | High — flashings are primary leak source on EPDM roofs |
Ballast Displacement | Wind events moving stone ballast away from membrane edges | Visible membrane exposure at roof edges or corners | Ballast redistribution and supplemental edge fastening | Moderate — exposed membrane is vulnerable to wind uplift |
UV Surface Oxidation | Long-term UV exposure on aging black membrane | Chalky or grey surface appearance — surface feels brittle | White reflective coating application to restore UV protection | Moderate — oxidation precedes surface cracking |
HVAC Curb Flashing Failure | Thermal movement at penetration points — aging sealant | Water staining around rooftop equipment — active leak at curb | HVAC curb flashing repair or replacement with EPDM flashing | High — penetration points are common commercial leak sources |
Ohio’s “Matching Law” and EPDM Claims
If your commercial property suffers from storm damage, you may be protected by Ohio Administrative Code 3901-1-54. This regulation requires insurance companies to ensure that any repairs result in a “reasonably comparable appearance.” For EPDM roofs that have faded or oxidized over 15 years, a “patch” repair will often be visually inconsistent with the rest of the roof. As your commercial contractors, we provide the documentation needed to help you argue for a full replacement under this law, ensuring your property value remains intact.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is EPDM roofing a good choice for Ohio’s heavy snow loads?
Yes. EPDM is one of the best materials for the Central Ohio winter. Because it is a “thermoset” rubber, it remains flexible even when temperatures drop well below zero. Unlike some plastic-based membranes that can become brittle and crack under the weight of heavy snow or ice, EPDM stretches and contracts without losing its structural integrity.
How does the "Ohio Matching Law" apply to my commercial EPDM roof?
Under Ohio Administrative Code 3901-1-54, if your EPDM roof suffers storm damage, the insurance company is required to provide a repair that results in a “reasonably comparable appearance.” Since EPDM oxidizes and changes color over time, a new black patch often creates a glaring mismatch. At Mid Ohio Roofing, we help document these discrepancies to ensure your insurance covers a repair that maintains your property’s professional look and value.
Can I install solar panels on my EPDM roof in Central Ohio?
Absolutely. EPDM is an excellent substrate for solar installations. Its long lifespan (30+ years) means you won’t have to tear off the solar array to replace the roof halfway through the panels’ life. We recommend using a ballasted solar racking system or specialized EPDM “target patches” to ensure the roof remains watertight around any mounting points.
Is black EPDM or white TPO better for my energy bills in Central Ohio?
This depends on your building’s usage. In Central Ohio, we have more “heating days” than “cooling days.” A black EPDM roof absorbs solar heat during our long winters, which can actually reduce your heating costs. However, if you run a facility that requires constant cooling (like a data center or cold storage), a white TPO roofing system might be a more efficient choice.
What causes EPDM seams to fail, and can they be fixed in Central Ohio?
Most EPDM leaks occur at the seams due to “adhesion failure” caused by age or poor initial installation. In our humid Ohio summers, moisture can sometimes get trapped during the original taping process. The good news is that EPDM is highly repairable. We can clean the old membrane and apply new primer and cover tape to restore the seal without needing a full roof replacement.
How much does EPDM roofing cost per square foot in Central Ohio?
A professionally installed EPDM system in Central Ohio typically costs between $5.50 and $9.00 per square foot. The price varies based on the thickness of the rubber (45-mil vs. 60-mil or 90-mil) and whether you choose a ballasted, mechanically attached, or fully adhered installation method. We provide free, detailed roof inspections to give you an exact quote for your facility.
Get in Touch with Us
Mid Ohio Roofing
12850 Township Road 106, Mount Perry, OH, 43760
Monday: 8AM – 8PM
Tuesday: 8AM – 8PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 8PM
Thursday: 8AM – 8PM
Friday: 8AM – 8PM
Saturday: 8AM – 8PM
Sunday: Closed
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Mid Ohio Roofing
12850 Township Road 106, Mount Perry, OH, 43760
(740) 644-2257
Mon–Sat: 8 AM – 8 PM, Sun: Closed