What Is Epdm Anyway
EPDM is an oil-based rubber material that can be easily applied to a flat or low-sloping rooftop. It is often described as a DIY-friendly material, too, because it does not involve any specialized skills or tools to install correctly and effectively. Preparing the area properly is also going to have an effect on any EPDM roof life expectancy.
EPDM Roofing
Why? If you want to get the very most EPDM roof life out of an installation, it means youll have to consider what issues might shorten or interfere with a longer life span on the material. Generally, it is the following factors that can shorten the roofing materials life span and decrease its performance:
A trustworthy EPDM guide can help you learn all about the appropriate steps to take before, during and after installation. Each of these steps can prolong or ensure the long EPDM roof life you desire.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Lifespan: 20-year to 30-year
Weakness: The fasteners
While this type of roof does have somewhat of an angle to it, it is a common type of commercial roof we work on and often is classified as a flat roof. These metal roofs protect the seams from moisture by having them sit at the highest point of elevation on the roof surface. However, the fasteners that keep the panels together are points of weakness. Oftentimes these fasteners show early signs of rust and can even rot away entirely. This leaves holes across the surface for water to enter and destroy the roof.
How Can I Improve My Flat Roofing Installations
By simply installing a rubber roof membrane! and always making sure you use flashing tape, even the most challenging flat roofs can be made watertight!
We also offer a range of products designed to divert rainwater from your flat roof to your drains properly. Check out our kits below:
Rainwater doesnt affect the properties of the rubber membrane, but we offer a range of accessories designed to correctly manage roof water run off. All our EPDM flat roofs come with a 20 or 25-year warranty to certified installers.
Unlike common, traditional materials such as tiles, slates, steel or felt, the roof membrane isnt vulnerable to rust or moss growing on it, nor will it tear, split or crack.
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What Are My Options For Putting On A New Epdm Roof
The precise work needed is going to vary on what kind of roof you currently have over your building. For example, petroleum products generally eat away at the rubber membranes over time, so you have a couple options
1.) Remove the old roof
This option is most common with old tar and pitch roofs, which also usually are going to require an asbestos tested and remediated given the age and date when this style of roofing was typically installed.
While costlier, this will generally be the most efficient long-term solution for you and your buildings infrastructure integrity.
2.) Roll over modified bitumen
If you have a modified bitumen roof, EPDM can be rolled over mod bit installs, but they will require a special patching cement that does not use any tar.
The Pros And Cons Of Using Epdm
As one of the upcoming and increasingly popular roofing options for trade and those who are wanting a straightforward roofing solution that they can do themselves, it is important you know what the pros and cons are when using EPDM on your roof.
Below we will go into some detail on the main advantages and disadvantages of using this option for your own project.
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How Long Does A Roof Membrane Last
If your home or property has a flat or low-sloped roof, some of the other types of roofing systems that weve covered wont be suitable.
For these sorts of properties, a roofing membrane like EPDM is a common choice due to its low cost and easier flat roof repair.
However, it only lasts for 5 to 15 years and is prone to leakage due to its taped or glued seams.
PVC and TPO roof membranes are more costly but also more durable roofing membrane options.
These are single ply roofing membranes with hot welded air seams that allow them to last nearly twice as long as EPDM rubber but of course these types of membrane roofs are more expensive to install or purchase.
Keep in mind that if your property is situated in an area where hurricanes are likely, then you will want to invest in a fully-adhered membrane roofing system as opposed to a mechanically attached single ply membrane roof since those will be more likely to withstand the winds and water from a hurricane.
What Are The Benefits Of Cleaning Your Roof
If you dont clean your roof then it will experience serious problems. A dirty or clogged rooftop is more likely to develop leaks and suffer from other types of damage.
While a dirty roof may seem like no big deal, its effects can be devastating. A dirty rooftop wont be able to function as well as a clean one .
Since your roof is a large part of protecting you against the elements, its important to keep it clean.
In Florida, its especially vital since youre likely to get a couple of nasty storms each year.
So if your roof isnt looking its best then get on top of that right away! Hire a professional for roof cleaning in Florida.
They can help you reclaim your rooftop and keep it looking great for years to come!
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Pro: Custom Made For You Cut To Size Service
The EPDM membrane that we provide will be cut to specification to fit your roof, including the necessary overhang to ensure easy installation. The best way to specify the exact sizes is to call us on 01303 769 990, but you can also send these to us on a web order form by including your dimensions in the delivery note section.
Having the rubber roofing cut to size means you can get a standard roof done with one membrane. If you have a couple of pieces of membrane to join together, you will need to use the 5 Flashing Tape.
How Long Does A Roof Last In Florida
By: Author Ryan M.
Florida is one of the most sun-drenched states in America, and has an average high temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roofs are exposed to high levels of UV rays that can lead to premature aging, cracking, blistering or peeling paint.
This article will discuss the topic on how long does a roof last in Florida before it needs replacement.
It is recommended that roofs are replaced every 15-20 years due to their susceptibility to damage from the suns harmful ultraviolet radiation.
There is a recommendation of replacing the roof materials every 20 years when they have reached the end of the lifespan under normal conditions.
For homeowners living in areas with heavy snow loads, ice damming or hail damage, these time frames may need to be reduced by up to 10 years.
One part of Florida is a tropical region situated on the east coast, where humidity is high year round.
This part of Florida is especially dry during winter months, but often experiences frequent but light rain showers throughout the summer.
The second part of Florida is a sub-tropical region located in south-central Florida, which tends to be more humid than other parts of the state due to being right in the center of a subtropical region.
The average life expectancy for a roof in high-humidity regions is five to seven years, whereas it is 10 to 12 years in areas with lower humidity and little precipitation.
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Factors That Affect The Lifespan Of Tile Roofs In Florida
- Local Weather Your local weather also plays an important role when considering how much wear & tear affects most homes over time.
- Floridas humidity mostly goes from March to August, but the dry season can last from October until May.
- Thats why its best you start looking for ways on how to lengthen the lifespan of your roof while paying attention to other factors that may affect your roofing system too.
- Maintenance You should clean out gutters regularly and avoid parking in the same place every day.
- Make sure you have a working smoke detector in your home, and keep shrubs and trees cut back at least 10 feet from the roof so they dont collect excess moisture on their leaves.
- If water has a hard time draining off your roof it can cause damage that may lead to leaks that will need professional help to fix.
- Quality of Materials Tile roofs are some of the most durable roofing on the market, but what about materials?
- Theres a variety to choose from. You can go with concrete or clay for example each has its own benefits and drawbacks depending upon where you live.
- For instance, if there is heavy snowfall, then your concrete tiles will last longer than their clay counterparts would under similar conditions because they generally dont absorb water as easily which leaves less room for expansion during freezing temperatures!
What Is The Lifespan Of A Felt Roof
A felt roof will last somewhere between 10 and 20 years. The older pour and roll method of installation has now been superseded by torch-on felt which is melt welded on to a flat roof. Felt is generally the least expensive option and was a common choice for many flat roofs before materials such as EPDM became more popular. Still, even though it is cheap, it does degrade faster, can’t be DIY installed and, as pointed out, may need replacing in as little as ten years.
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How Long Does A Stone Coated Steel Roof Last
If you havent heard of stone-coated steel tiles, youre not alone. While this type of roofing has several great features, it has not surpassed the popularity of other common roofing options. A stone-coated roof is made to look like traditional shingles but has the durability of metal. This durability means that steel roofs are also one of the longer-lasting options, with life expectancy ranging between 40 to 70 years when installed properly. They also help to reflect UV rays and have been considered to be very energy efficient.
Like traditional metal roofing, youll want to look for signs of fading or damage as a signal to call a quality roofing contractor for a free roof inspection.
How Long Does A Slate Roof Last
The lifespan of slate roofs may surprise you, with hard slate tiles coming in at anywhere from 75 to a whopping 200 years. These long-lasting slate tiles have a life that can typically survive multiple homeowners and may have new homeowners unsure of just how old their roof is.
What about slate roof, how long does a roof of its kind lasts? Soft slate also has a long lifespan and can last between 50 and 125 years. If you have a slate roof, its often difficult to know how much longer it will last or when to replace it. Determining whether you have a hard or soft slate roof will likely influence your decision to try to restore it since the hard slate has such a long life. Either way, the most apparent warning of trouble with slate roofs is when leaks start happening. A qualified contractor can quickly assess where the damage is coming from and make proper repairs if possible, further extending this already long-lasting roof option.
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What Is The Average Lifespan Of Premium Shingles
Like architectural shingles or dimensional shingles, premium asphalt shingles can withstand around 110 MPH to 130 MPH of wind uplift depending on how they are installed.
The difference between the two types of shingles is that premium shingles are generally more luxurious in appearance and are usually installed on high-end homes.
Premium shingles last from 20 to 30 years on average.
Adding a desirable roof shingle color can also add to the appeal and value of your property as well.
Seams Failure = Leaks
Here is an industry fact that most homeowners dont know even when a rubber roof is installed correctly, it will most likely still leak. This is because it is designed to have seams that are glued together, effectively keeping it watertight.
Over time, even the best glue dries up and fails in 7-10 years or sooner, allowing the seams to come apart. At that point, the roof is left completely vulnerable to water infiltration.
The worst part this is an unavoidable systemic problem with the design of this roof. The best you can do is prolong the period before the seams fail. But, they will eventually fail, nonetheless.
This is why if you want to avoid recurring leaks, it is best to install a seamless single-ply membrane, such as PVC or TPO roofing.
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Con: Finding The Right Installer
Rubber roofing has been around for 40 years, which isnt a long time compared to other roofing methods! As a result, finding an experienced roofer nearby to carry out your project may be harder than you think.
The best way for you to find a certified installer is to visit a manufacturers website or contact them directly. Many have thousands of professionals that have attended courses and have a good track record which they can share with you.
Make Use Of A Protective Cover
When your RV is not in use, it is a good idea to make use of a fitted protective cover that securely covers your RV. This way your RVs roof is free from harsh weather elements as well as accumulation of dirt and debris. It also helps to save you the stress of regular cleanings.
Make sure you choose a cover that thoroughly protects your RV roof from UV rays, moisture, and other elements that can cause it damage.
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How Long Do Architectural Shingles Or Dimensional Shingles Last
Architectural or dimensional asphalt shingles are thicker and more durable and therefore more suited to places with more extreme weather conditions.
That said, they are also more expensive but they do last between 15 to 25 years and can withstand wind uplift for up to 110 miles MPH, or even up to 130 MPH with specialized installation techniques and roof bracing.
Should You Use A Roof Sealer
Roof coatings such as EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, are recommended for maintaining rubber RV roofs. This coating is a synthetic rubber material that can be used to maintain the integrity of your roof and extend its lifespan.
Roof sealers such as this can last several years, helping to prevent leaks and tears in the rubber material of your vehicles roof. Read your user manual for guidelines on when and how frequently to apply a roof sealer in order to ensure an extended lifespan of your RVs roof.
No matter which material your roof is made from, it is likely to last between 10-20 years. The more proactive maintenance you perform, the more likely you are to reach the 20-year mark before requiring a replacement. Although rubber and TPO roofs are among the most common, it is wise to consider all of your options before choosing a roof for your RV.
Although the roof of your vehicle may frequently be out of sight, it is important to remember to clean it and keep it clear of debris and dust. Once you have found the proper cleaning solution for your roofs material, all youll have to do is climb up on a ladder and give it a solid cleaning a few times a year. If you travel in an area with trees or dust, it is a good idea to clean your vehicle afterward to avoid damage.
Additional maintenance may include waxing and caulking. Learn the perfect combination of maintenance strategies for your vehicles roof, and you should be able to make it last for 20 years or more!
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How To Maintain A Flat Rubber Roof
Maintenance doesn’t have to be a chore, but it’s best to carry it out a couple of times a year, we’d suggest once in spring after the cold, damp winter months and once in autumn after the hot summer months. You should also check the roof after heavy rain to make sure that water isn’t pooling on it.
When you carry out your bi-annual maintenance, remove any debris such as leaves from the roof that could block the water from draining and cause it to pool.
If there are overhanging tree branches above your roof then cut them back, heavy branches falling on the rubber membrane could damage it.
Just as with any other roof you will need to undertake repairs occasionally. Fortunately, there are inexpensive repair kits and patches designed for easy maintenance of an EPDM roof.
Ultimate Guide To Rubber Roofing For Your Home
Low-pitched and flat roofs have a high risk of water damage due to their slow drainage. If your home has such a structure, you may wonder how to enhance its longevity and avoid leakage.
Installing single-ply rubber roofing is the best way to protect a flat or low-pitched roof from the elements. Here, we provide the ultimate guide to these materials by discussing their pros and cons. Well also answer some frequently asked questions to help you understand how to care for rubber roofing and determine if they are a suitable choice.
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