Rubber Roofing

EPDM Rubber Membrane Roof Cost vs. PVC and TPO – Pros & Cons

EPDM rubber is one of the most common low-slope roofing systems for homes featuring low-slope or flat roofs.

EPDM in a Nutshell

Rubber membranes for low-slope and flat roofs are made from EPDM rubber, a type of synthetic rubber characterized by a wide variety of applications.

The E in EPDM refers to Ethylene, P refers to Propylene, D refers to Diene, and M or Monomer refers to its classification.

EPDM Rubber Roof

The properties of natural rubber are modified to serve the purpose of synthetic rubber — synthetic rubber has improved weather resistance qualities as a result.

Cost

Most homeowners can expect to pay between $7.50 and $12.50 per square foot to install a new EPDM rubber membrane on a typical flat roof. This translates to a total project cost range of $11,250 to $18,750 for a typical 15-squares (1,500 square feet) low-slope roof replacement.

Average Roof Replacement Cost:

Low End

$8,500

Mid-Range

$10,500

High End

$14,500

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The total project cost can be higher or lower depending on the condition of the existing roof and the underlying deck, type and thickness of insulation, and the number of roof penetrations like chimneys and skylights. The overall roof difficulty, accessibility, and project location will also greatly impact costs.

For comparison, PVC and TPO roofs cost an average of $8.50 to $14.50 per square foot installed, including materials, professional installation, and labor warranty.

flat-roof

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Roofing Materials & Installation Costs: Shingles, Metal, Flat Roofs

Are you exploring the most suitable roofing options for your home? If so, roofing material types and their costs must be top of mind.

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This guide will help you explore the most popular residential roofing materials, including pricing and installation costs.

Roofing Materials Costs

Asphalt Shingles:

Dimensional shingles roof on a house

Asphalt shingles are generally less expensive than other roofing materials like metal and are relatively easy to install (unlike metal roofing), resulting in a lower overall cost for a new asphalt roof. However, premium (designer) asphalt shingles, such as those from GAF, CertainTeed, and Malarkey, can be as expensive as high-end roofing materials like metal. Here’s a breakdown of different types of asphalt shingles:

3-tab shingles (strip shingles):

  • Materials Cost: $90 to $120 per square (100 sq. ft.), excluding trim.
  • Characteristics: Least costly, thin, not designed for longevity, flat appearance without much dimensionality.
  • Top Products: GAF Royal Sovereign, CertainTeed XT 25, Owens Corning Supreme.
  • Wind Rating: Up to 60 MPH.
  • Installation Note: Care needed for alignment to avoid vertical lines running off.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 10 years to 20 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

Architectural (dimensional) shingles:

  • Materials Cost: $100 to $150 per square (100 sq. ft.), excluding trim.
  • Characteristics: Midrange, multiple layers, dimensional appearance, thicker, and sturdier.
  • Wind Rating: At least 110 MPH, up to 130 MPH with the 6-nails per shingle installation.
  • Top Products: Owens Corning Duration, GAF Timberline HDZ, CertainTeed Landmark
  • Specialty: CoolRoof rated shingles eligible for rebates in California.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 15 years to 25 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

Premium (designer) shingles:

  • Materials Cost: $200 to $400 per square (100 sq. ft.).
  • Characteristics: Custom-looking, multiple layers, distinctive appearance, performance on par with high-end architectural shingles.
  • Top Products: CertainTeed Grand Manor, Owens Corning Berkshire, GAF Camelot, Malarkey Windsor.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 20 years to 35 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

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