What kind of roof material is likely to degrade more quickly due to UV exposure?

EPDM membranes are synthetic rubber roofing materials that are commonly used for flat or low-slope roofs. While they are known for their durability and flexibility, they can be particularly susceptible to degradation from UV exposure over time. UV rays can cause the rubber to break down, leading to cracks, brittleness, and loss of elasticity. This can reduce the overall lifespan of the roofing material and necessitate repairs or replacement sooner than other materials that may have better resistance to UV damage.

In contrast, slate roofs, clay tiles, and thatch roofs have inherently different properties that provide them with greater resilience to UV exposure. Slate and clay tiles are natural materials that do not degrade as rapidly under sunlight due to their mineral composition. Thatch, while organic and subject to other forms of degradation, tends to be more resistant to UV light due to its thicker, layered structure, which protects the inner materials from direct sunlight. Thus, among the choices provided, EPDM membranes stand out as the material most likely to experience rapid degradation due to UV exposure.