";breakdown+="- EPDM Membrane: $"+materialTotal.toLocaleString()+"
";if(insulationTotal>0)breakdown+="- Insulation: $"+insulationTotal.toLocaleString()+"
";if(calcType==='total'){breakdown+="- Labor Installation: $"+laborTotal.toLocaleString()+"
";if(tearoffTotal>0)breakdown+="- Old Roof Removal: $"+tearoffTotal.toLocaleString()+"
";}breakdown+="
Average Cost per Sq. Ft: $"+(grandTotal/area).toFixed(2);}document.getElementById('breakdownText').innerHTML=breakdown;}
How to Use the EPDM Roofing Cost Calculator
Determining the budget for a flat roof project can be daunting. This epdm roofing cost calculator is designed to provide homeowners and contractors with a reliable estimate for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber roofing systems. By adjusting variables like square footage, rubber thickness, and labor difficulty, you can see how different choices impact your bottom line.
- Roof Area (Sq. Ft.)
- The total surface area of the roof. Most residential flat roofs or garage roofs range from 500 to 2,000 square feet.
- EPDM Thickness
- EPDM comes in different grades. 45 mil is the economy choice, while 60 mil is the industry standard for durability. 90 mil is typically reserved for extreme commercial applications.
- Labor Complexity
- Refers to how many penetrations (vents, skylights, chimneys) and edge details exist. A simple rectangle costs less than a complex roof with many obstacles.
How It Works: The EPDM Pricing Formula
The epdm roofing cost calculator uses a multi-factor formula to ensure accuracy across different project scales. The mathematical logic follows this structure:
Total Cost = Area × (Material Grade + Labor Rate + Insulation + Removal Fee)
- Material Grade: Prices fluctuate based on oil prices, as EPDM is a petroleum-based product. Prices generally range from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot for raw materials and adhesives.
- Labor Rate: Specialized labor for rubber roofing is required to ensure seams are watertight. This usually adds $3.00 to $8.00 per square foot.
- Insulation: Often called "Polyiso" boards, these are essential for R-value on flat roofs and add significant material cost.
Calculation Example
Example: A standard 1,000 sq. ft. flat roof garage requiring a 60 mil EPDM membrane with standard insulation and a full tear-off of the old material.
Step-by-step solution:
- Area: 1,000 sq. ft.
- Material (60 Mil): 1,000 × $2.25 = $2,250
- Labor (Standard): 1,000 × $5.50 = $5,500
- Insulation: 1,000 × $1.20 = $1,200
- Tear-off: 1,000 × $1.50 = $1,500
- Result: $2,250 + $5,500 + $1,200 + $1,500 = $10,450 Total
Common Questions
Is EPDM cheaper than TPO?
Generally, EPDM is slightly more affordable in terms of raw material costs compared to TPO. However, EPDM is often black and absorbs more heat, whereas TPO is white and reflective. For long-term cooling savings, TPO might win, but for upfront installation, EPDM is often the most cost-effective flat roof solution.
How long does an EPDM roof last?
A properly installed 60 mil EPDM roof can last 25 to 30 years. The seams are the most vulnerable point, so using a professional who uses high-quality seam tape or liquid flashing is critical to reaching the maximum lifespan.
Can I install EPDM myself?
While EPDM is available for DIY purchase, it is highly technical. Mistakes in adhesive application or corner flashing can lead to catastrophic leaks that damage the structure below. We recommend using the epdm roofing cost calculator to budget for professional installation rather than risking a DIY failure.
Does the color of the rubber matter?
Most EPDM is black. In cold climates, this helps melt snow. In hot climates, you may want to apply a white acrylic coating over the EPDM to improve energy efficiency, though this will add approximately $1.00 – $1.50 per square foot to your total cost.