Understanding EPDM Rubber Roofing: Is It Right for Your Flat Roof?

If your home or commercial building has a flat or low-slope roof, you know that traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles often fall short. These systems aren’t built to handle the unique challenges of flat surfaces—leading to ponding water, premature wear, and frequent leaks. EPDM rubber roofing offers a reliable alternative designed specifically for flat roofs. But is it the right choice for your property?

What is EPDM Rubber Roofing?

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a highly durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane used on flat and low-slope roofs for over 50 years. While it’s a staple in commercial roofing, EPDM is gaining popularity among homeowners throughout Wisconsin—especially in areas like Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Waupun, and surrounding towns—because of its exceptional weather resistance and longevity.

Unlike traditional shingle roofing, which is better suited for pitched roofs, EPDM is installed in large, seamless sheets that drastically reduce the risk of leaks. This makes it an ideal solution for flat-roofed home additions, garages, covered porches, sunrooms, and even home office extensions—areas where Brad’s Construction often completes full exterior remodels and structural upgrades.

If you’re already investing in a home addition, garage construction, or a roof replacement, EPDM could be the smart, long-term choice for any section of your property with little or no roof pitch.

Key features of EPDM roofing

• • Waterproof and weather-resistant: EPDM is engineered to hold up under intense UV exposure, heavy rain, snow buildup, and even hail. Its performance in Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw cycles makes it a great fit for both residential and light commercial roofing applications.
  • Durable and flexible: The rubber membrane can expand and contract with changing temperatures without becoming brittle or cracking—an essential feature for long-term roof integrity in our climate.
  • Low maintenance: Unlike traditional flat roofing systems that may require regular patching or resealing, EPDM roofs require very little upkeep when properly installed. This pairs well with Brad’s Construction’s full-service approach to exterior remodeling, where long-lasting solutions are a top priority.
  • Long lifespan: With expert installation and quality materials, an EPDM roof can last 25 to 30 years—or even longer. This kind of durability adds value and peace of mind for homeowners undertaking larger renovation projects, such as siding replacement, basement finishing, or kitchen remodels.
  • Environmentally responsible: EPDM is recyclable and often installed with high-efficiency insulation underneath. This can help improve your home’s energy performance, especially when paired with other energy-efficient upgrades like new windows, doors, or insulation services.

Is EPDM the Right Choice for Your Flat Roof?

If you're evaluating roofing options for a flat or low-slope roof in Wisconsin, EPDM rubber roofing should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the most practical, durable, and cost-effective materials available—making it an ideal fit for both residential and light commercial applications.

Flat roofs present unique challenges in our region. Between snow accumulation in the winter and heavy rain in the spring and fall, Wisconsin homeowners need a roofing solution that can withstand moisture, temperature swings, and seasonal extremes. EPDM is engineered for just that.

You may want to consider EPDM if:

• • You’re replacing an aging or leaky flat roof
  • You’re building a new garage, porch, or home addition with a low-slope design
  • You’re looking for a roofing material that performs well through harsh winters, wind, and rain
  • Your roof doesn’t require frequent foot traffic (such as rooftop decks or patios)
  • You want a reliable system that offers excellent long-term value without excessive maintenance

Many of our clients in Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Waupun, and surrounding areas choose EPDM when upgrading their flat-roofed sunrooms, covered patios, or additions. At Brad’s Construction, we often incorporate EPDM into full home remodels, especially when tying in exterior renovations like new siding, window replacements, or roof replacements on additions and outbuildings.

How EPDM Compares to Other Flat Roofing Materials

While EPDM is a leading option, it’s important to understand how it stacks up to other materials you might come across:

• • TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): TPO is a white, reflective membrane that’s popular for energy efficiency. While it can help reduce heat absorption, it tends to have a shorter lifespan and is more sensitive to poor installation—making it less forgiving than EPDM in Wisconsin’s variable climate.
  • Modified Bitumen: Often selected for its affordability, modified bitumen is a rolled roofing material that performs reasonably well but generally requires more maintenance and doesn’t last as long in freeze-thaw conditions. It can be a decent option for small outbuildings or budget-sensitive projects, but not the best long-term investment.
  • Built-Up Roofing (BUR): This old-school “tar and gravel” system is extremely durable and typically used on large commercial buildings. However, it’s expensive, heavy, and labor-intensive—often excessive for residential properties.

For most homeowners across Dodge, Fond du Lac, and Washington Counties, EPDM strikes the ideal balance: it’s tough, affordable, energy-conscious, and proven to perform in Wisconsin’s unique weather conditions. And when it’s installed by an experienced team like Brad’s Construction, you get the added confidence of local expertise and long-term reliability.

Why Choose Brad’s Construction for EPDM Installation?

When it comes to flat roof solutions, installation quality matters just as much as the material itself. At Brad’s Construction, we bring years of hands-on experience installing and repairing EPDM roofing systems throughout Winnebago County and the surrounding areas. We understand the demands of Wisconsin’s climate and know how to build roofs that last.

Our EPDM roofing process is thorough and detail-oriented. We don’t take shortcuts, and every project begins with careful planning:

• • Surface prep: We inspect the roof deck, repair or replace any damaged substrate, and ensure the surface is clean and dry for optimal membrane adhesion.
  • Precision installation: Whether fully adhered or mechanically fastened, we apply the membrane with attention to every seam and flashing.
  • Quality materials: We only use trusted brands and proven products to maximize the lifespan and performance of your flat roof.
  • Reliable protection: Our EPDM roofing systems come with workmanship and manufacturer warranties for your peace of mind.

But we’re more than just roofing installers. Brad’s Construction is a full-service general contractor specializing in:

• • Exterior remodeling – including siding, fascia, and soffits
  • Garage construction – from foundations to roofing
  • Custom home additions – with integrated roofing and exterior finishes

This makes us the ideal partner for projects that go beyond a simple roof replacement. Whether you're building a new covered porch, remodeling a sunroom, or tying in an addition to your existing structure, we can handle it all—seamlessly and professionally.

Homeowners across Oshkosh, Ripon, Fond du Lac, Mayville, and West Bend trust Brad’s Construction for:

• • Clear, honest communication throughout the project
  • On-time scheduling and professional work crews
  • Clean job sites and respectful service
  • High-quality results that stand up to Wisconsin weather

When you work with Brad’s Construction, you get more than a roofing contractor—you get a local partner who cares about the long-term performance and value of your entire home.

Mini case example

One homeowner in Mayville contacted us after noticing persistent leaks in their three-season sunroom with a low-slope roof. After inspecting the area, we recommended a fully adhered EPDM membrane. The result? A clean, seamless roof that stood up to snow and rain with zero issues—plus a 20-year manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.

Proudly Serving Homeowners Across Central Wisconsin

Brad’s Construction provides EPDM roofing and full-service home renovations in:

• • Beaver Dam
  • Brownsville
  • Campbellsport
  • Columbus
  • Fond du Lac
  • Fox Lake
  • Hartford
  • Horicon
  • Hustisford
  • Juneau
  • Lomira
  • Mayville
  • North Fond du Lac
  • Oakfield
  • Oshkosh
  • Randolph
  • Ripon
  • Watertown
  • West Bend
  • Waupun

We also serve the surrounding areas of Dodge County, Fond du Lac County, and Washington County.

Ready to upgrade your flat roof?

Whether you’re planning a roof replacement or exploring options for a new addition, we’re here to help. Our team will walk you through the pros and cons of EPDM roofing and provide a no-pressure estimate based on your specific needs.

Call Brad’s Construction today or request an estimate online. We proudly serve Winnebago County and nearby communities with reliable, high-quality craftsmanship you can trust.