Black EPDM vs White TPO Roofing
Why We Often Recommend Black EPDM Roofing for Wisconsin Buildings
When it comes to commercial and low-slope roofing in Wisconsin, there are several membrane options available. One of the most common choices today is white TPO roofing. While TPO can be a suitable roofing system for certain buildings and applications, it isn't always our first choice for Wisconsin's demanding climate.
At Noffke Roofing, we've been installing and working on roofs in Wisconsin for more than 70 years. We've seen firsthand how Wisconsin's extreme temperature swings, snow, ice, moisture, wind and summer heat can affect roofing systems over time.
For many of our customers, we believe black EPDM rubber roofing is a better long-term choice.
Wisconsin Weather Puts Roofing Materials to the Test
Wisconsin roofs experience some of the most significant temperature changes throughout the year. A roof may be exposed to below-zero temperatures in the winter and hot, sunny conditions during the summer.
That constant expansion and contraction can put stress on roofing materials, seams, flashing and other components.
EPDM, commonly known as rubber roofing, has a long history of performing in these types of environments. The material is designed to remain flexible through temperature changes and provides excellent resistance to weathering, ozone and UV exposure.
That's one of the reasons EPDM has remained a popular choice for low-slope and flat roofs throughout the Midwest.
What About White TPO Roofing?
TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, has become a popular roofing membrane because of its white reflective surface, heat-welded seams and relatively straightforward installation.
And to be clear, we do install TPO roofing at Noffke Roofing. There are buildings and situations where TPO can be an appropriate choice.
However, we believe the best roofing material isn't necessarily the newest or most popular option. It is the material that makes the most sense for the building, its location and the conditions it will face over its lifetime.
White TPO is designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. But when our customers are primarily concerned with long-term durability and performance in Wisconsin's climate, we frequently recommend taking a serious look at black EPDM.
Why We Prefer Black EPDM for Many Wisconsin Roofs
Proven Performance in Cold Climates
EPDM has been used as a roofing membrane for decades and has a long track record in the Midwest.
Manufacturers specifically recognize EPDM as a strong option for extreme-temperature climates, with the flexibility to accommodate movement caused by changing temperatures.
For Wisconsin buildings that spend much of the year in heating-dominated conditions, that's an important consideration.
Excellent Weather Resistance
Black EPDM contains carbon black, which contributes to its resistance to heat and UV exposure. It also provides strong resistance to ozone and weathering.
A flat roof needs to withstand far more than rain. Snow, ice, wind, sunlight, freeze-thaw cycles and temperature changes all contribute to the aging of a roofing system.
Flexibility Matters
One of the biggest advantages of EPDM is its ability to accommodate movement.
As temperatures change, roofing materials expand and contract. A membrane that can remain flexible through those changes can help a roofing system withstand the demands of the Wisconsin climate.
A Long Track Record
Sometimes, proven technology is the best technology.
EPDM has been protecting commercial, industrial and residential buildings since the 1960s. It has a long history of use on low-slope and flat roofs throughout the Midwest.
At Noffke Roofing, we value that history because we've seen what happens to roofing systems over decades—not just years.
The Right Roof Depends on the Building
There isn't one roofing membrane that is perfect for every building.
TPO may be the right choice for certain applications, particularly when reflectivity and a white roofing surface are important. Modern TPO systems can provide good weathering, UV resistance and heat-aging performance when properly designed and installed.
But for many Wisconsin properties, we believe black EPDM deserves serious consideration for its proven durability, flexibility and long-term performance.
That's why we don't simply recommend the same roofing system to every customer.
Experience Matters When Choosing a Roofing System
With more than 70 years of experience serving Southeast Wisconsin, Noffke Roofing understands that choosing a roofing material is about more than what's popular today.
We look at the building, the existing roof, the slope, drainage, insulation, exposure and the demands Wisconsin weather will place on the system.
Our goal is simple: recommend a roofing system that makes sense for your building and is built to provide dependable performance for years to come.
If you're considering a new flat or low-slope roof in Southeast Wisconsin, talk with a roofing contractor who understands the difference between simply installing a roof and choosing the right roofing system.
Contact Noffke Roofing for a free estimate and let our experienced team help you determine whether EPDM, TPO or another roofing system is the right choice for your building.
