ERA Initiatives

A comprehensive new survey of 569 roofing professionals combined with extensive laboratory research confirms that properly installed and maintained EPDM roofing membranes routinely deliver at least 38 years of service life — with many installations exceeding 40, 45, and even 50 years. The findings, released… Read More

569 roofing professionals and four decades of laboratory testing validate exceptional durability of properly installed EPDM systems A new survey of 569 roofing professionals combined with extensive laboratory research confirms that properly installed and maintained EPDM roofing membranes routinely deliver… Read More

Ask roofing contractors, consultants and designers how long EPDM membranes last, and you’ll get remarkably consistent answers that align closely with four decades of scientific research. In 2025, the EPDM Roofing Association conducted a comprehensive EPDM membrane service life survey… Read More

The EPDM Roofing Association (ERA) is accepting submissions for the inaugural EPDM Roofing Awards through March 31, 2026. This is your opportunity to gain industry recognition for outstanding commercial EPDM installations across North America. Why Enter? Cash prizes: $250 for category winners, $1,000… Read More

The International Roofing Expo (IRE) once again delivered a strong mix of education, networking, and industry dialogue, with more than 45 educational sessions across nine tracks covering topics ranging from general business strategy and workplace safety to single-ply systems, EPDM… Read More

EPDM roofing delivers proven, science-based performance that goes beyond the outdated “black vs. white roof” debate. As modern building codes require significantly higher insulation levels, research consistently shows that insulation, not surface reflectivity, is the primary driver of energy efficiency in many U.S. climates, particularly ASHRAE Climate Zones 4–8. Multiple recent studies, including work by Harvard and ICF, find no consistent link between highly reflective white roof mandates and urban heat island reduction, while highlighting potential downsides such as increased heating demand, moisture risks, and unintended climate impacts. EPDM has a long track record of stable performance in real-world conditions where durability, insulation, and lifecycle outcomes matter most.

With an average service life of approximately 38 years, EPDM roofing systems significantly outperform many highly reflective membranes, reducing replacement frequency, embodied carbon, and total cost of ownership. EPDM offers exceptional durability, ease of repair, and compatibility with solar installations and vegetative roofs, making it a reliable foundation for long-term sustainability strategies. For building owners seeking a low-risk, resilient roofing solution backed by current research, EPDM provides consistent energy performance, avoids hidden moisture concerns, and supports long-term asset planning across a wide range of climates.