If you’re considering rubber roofing for your home, it’s a standout choice for a solid roof without regular upkeep.
Rubber roofing is made from material that creates a seal to keep water from seeping in, and its insulating properties regulate your home’s temperature.
And more regulated temperature = lower energy bills. So, it’s a win-win.
But the pros of rubber roofing don’t end here. That’s why we’ve written this guide to explain what makes this roofing a smart choice, how its installation goes, and how to maintain it over the years.
So, if you want to make a conscious decision, keep reading, and let’s understand all about rubber roofs.
What is Rubber Roofing?
Rubber roofing is made from durable synthetic rubber materials to seal flat or low-sloped roofs. It’s meant to provide a waterproof barrier that shields your home from rain, snow, and other weather conditions. This roofing adapts well to temperature changes and doesn’t crack or split, which makes it long-lasting.
Benefits of Rubber Roofing
Now that we know what rubber roofing is, let’s dissect its benefits and see if it’s a good choice for your property. Here’s what makes this roofing material a good option:
Durability and Longevity
Did you know that rubber roofing can last up to 50 years? Yes, that’s true, but only if you hire a pro-roofer and do proper upkeep. If you meet this criteria, you won’t have to worry about frequent replacements, which will save you time and money.
Rubber resists cracking, rotting, and blistering, which are common issues with other roofing types. So, if you live in an area with extreme temperature changes, rubber roofing can withstand expansion and contraction without facing damage.
Cost-Effectiveness
Rubber roofing can withstand harsh weather conditions as it resists damage from UV rays, rain, snow, and hail. As a result, you won’t be paying for repair costs every now and then. Sure, the initial installation cost is comparable to other materials, but the long-term savings are notable as you won’t spend much on repairs.
Energy Efficiency
Rubber roofing provides good insulation as it helps keep indoor temperatures stable. Here’s how rubber does it:
- It prevents heat from getting out during the winter
- It blocks excessive heat in the summer
This means your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard, which will result in lower energy consumption.
Environmental Friendliness
If you’re environmentally conscious, rubber roofing is a good choice because many rubber roofing materials are made from recycled products. At the end of a rubber roof’s lifespan, it is recyclable, so your home construction will leave behind minimal waste.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Another standout aspect of rubber roofing is its low maintenance needs, as you won’t need to spend much time or money on upkeep. Regular inspections and occasional cleaning are enough to keep it in good condition. If minor damages occur, like small punctures or tears, you can repair them quickly with a patch or sealant.
Installation Guide for Rubber Roofing
Installing a rubber roof is an expert’s job, but you can budget with more clarity if you know the steps that go into it. So, to cut the doubt, let’s now talk about how rubber roofing is installed:
Preparing the Roof Surface
Firstly, professionals remove any old roofing materials, debris, and dirt. The roof deck must be clean, dry, and in good condition. If there are any damaged areas, they repair them to ensure a solid foundation for the new roofing.
Installing the Insulation
If needed, an insulation layer is also added to improve the rubber roof’s energy efficiency. Therefore, insulation boards are placed directly on the roof deck to regulate indoor temperatures.
Laying the Rubber Membrane
The rubber membrane, whether it’s EPDM or TPO, comes in big rolls. Professionals unroll the membrane over the insulation layer and ensure it lays flat without wrinkles or air pockets.
Securing the Membrane
There are several methods to secure the rubber membrane. Here are some ways the membrane is secured:
- Roofing adhesive is applied to the roof surface and the underside of the membrane then pressed firmly into place.
- The membrane is fastened using screws and plates for extra security in areas with high winds.
- For commercial flat roofs, the membrane can be held down with heavy materials like gravel or pavers.
Sealing the Seams
Seams are where two pieces of membrane meet, so meticulously sealing these seams is non-negotiable if you want to prevent water leaks. Professionals use seam tape or liquid adhesives to create watertight seals so there are no weak points.
Flashing Around Protrusions
Areas around a building’s vents, chimneys, and skylights require special attention because that’s where most damage can happen. Therefore, roofers fit flashing around these points by applying more membrane layers or metal fittings to create a secure seal. Once the membrane is secured, excess material around the edges is trimmed, and edge trims or termination bars are installed to secure the perimeter.
Maintenance of Rubber Roofing
As explained earlier, maintaining a rubber roof doesn’t tire you out, as it’s built to be strong. But that doesn’t mean there’s no upkeep needed at all.
If you follow the tips below, your rubber roof can last for decades and prove its worth. Here’s how maintenance is done for rubber roofing:
- Conduct regular inspections of your rubber roof twice a year and after any severe weather events. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or bubbles in the membrane.
- Keeping the roof clean helps because debris like leaves, branches, and dirt can accumulate on the roof and damage its structure.
- One of the most common areas for leaks in rubber roofing is at the seams. That’s why you should regularly check these seams for any signs of separation or damage. If you notice issues, apply a seam sealant to fix them.
- After continuous rainfall, check for areas on your roof where water may gather. Even though rubber roofing is highly water-resistant, standing water can weaken it.
- If you find punctures or tears in the rubber roof, repair them ASAP. Experts can repair small punctures with a patching kit, but for larger tears, they might have to apply a new piece of rubber membrane.
Take Experts’ Help and Enjoy a Foolproof Rubber Roof for Years
Rubber roofing is a solid option for homes and businesses because of its toughness. But remember that the real value of rubber roofing comes from proper installation and regular care. Maintenance can ensure your roof lasts longer and does its job well.
If you have any questions about rubber roofing or need expert advice, Surf & Turf Roofing is a call away. Reach out when you’re ready to take the next step, and we’ll make sure the whole project goes smoothly. After all, we’re the pro roofers in NJ!
FAQs
What types of buildings benefit most from rubber roofing?
Rubber roofing is ideal for commercial and residential buildings with flat or low-sloped roofs.
Can rubber roofing be used on both flat and sloped roofs?
Yes, rubber roofing is versatile enough to be used on both flat and sloped roofs. However, it can only be used on low-sloped roofs because of its structural limitations.
Is rubber roofing environmentally friendly?
Yes, rubber roofing is said to be environmentally friendly because of its long lifespan and recyclability. Most rubber roofs are made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their useful life.
