Pros Of Rubber Shingles
Image source: TSpark Enterprises
Style
Rubber shingles can look indistinguishable from sought-after materials like stone slate or wood shake. The former is notoriously expensive and difficult to work with, so rubber shingles offer a budget-friendly alternative while maintaining their highly regarded look.
Rubber Shake vs. Real Shake
Leaking Epdm Roof Repair
Leaks in EPDM roofs can happen for several reasons, including:
- punctures in, or damage to, the membrane
- shrinkage
- incorrectly installed or improper flashing
- wrinkles extending into roof seams
The best way to deal with roof leaks is through prevention, rather than cure, as usually, once youve noticed a leak, the chances are its already done some damage . This is where regular roof inspections and clearing debris away from the roof come in.
Remember that the source of the leak may not be directly above where the damp patch has come through. Water can run in any number of directions, so its important to thoroughly inspect the roof space.
When youve found the source of the leak, its important to determine the full scope of the problem, as if moisture has already got through your EPDM membrane, and it gets trapped, it can cause bubbling and blistering as well as potentially lead to rot. So, its more than just fixing the original leak!
Fixes may include re-laying the entire roof, or part of the membrane, applying a patch or re-installing the flashing. It will depend on the issue at hand. If you think you might have a leak, consult a trained roofer to determine the best course of action for your EPDM roof.
The Cost Of Epdm Roofing
The last thing and most important thing you need to know about EPDM roofing is how much itll cost. Just know that its impossible to give you an exact price due to all the different cost factors.
The numbers below should only be used to help you understand the budget needed for EPDM roofing. With that in mind, EPDM roofing will cost around $14.00-$17.00 per square foot for smaller projects and around $12.00 per square foot for slightly larger projects.
A couple of big cost factors help determine where youll fall in the price range above. The first one is the type of insulation used under the actual EPDM roofing membrane.
It costs more to use insulation thick enough to insulate the entire structure than using fabric insulation and gluing the membrane to it. The second factor is the size of the roof getting EPDM roofing installed on it.
If you have a smaller project, the cost per square foot will actually be on the higher end of the price range. For larger projects, the cost per square foot has the opposite effect and drastically decreases.
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The Complete Guide To Rubber Roofing Materials For Flat Roofs
Ask any new property owner who spent a modest budget for a high-quality property and theyll tell you that using rubber roofing materials for flat roofs was the best choice he or she had made.
Even roofing contractors will tell you that EPDM roofs are the best, cost-effective solutions for any new or existing property. However, what makes them the best choice against PVC, TPO, or traditional roofing materials such as asphalt and tar and gravel?
EPDM roofs are durable and have a lengthy lifespan on par with other synthetic roofing materials. In addition, they reflect UV rays and improve the overall insulation of a property. Read more to find out everything you need to know about rubber roofing materials.
What Goes Under Shingles On A Roof
When you take a look at the roof on your home, you will notice the shingles first and foremost. After that, there is not much more to see. That is because the shingles are doing their job of keeping everything underneath them out of sight. Unless you start ripping off the shingles yourself to replace or repair, you may never know just how many layers are hidden beneath the most visible roofing materials.
The fact is that there are multiple layers beneath the shingles that are meant to block out moisture. Since understanding what goes under the shingles on a roof can help you out in the future, weve come up with a quick guide to explain everything you need to know.
Lets begin.
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Pros Of Bowie Tpo Roofing:
- Durable and flexible. TPO is highly flexible, which means it can better withstand impacts and other types of potential damage.
- Environmentally friendly. TPO doesnt contain some of the chemicals used to produce other roofing materials, including chlorine. TPO is UV resistant , which means you can use less energy to cool your home in the summer. TPO is 100% recyclable.
- Hot air technology. TPO is hot air-welded, making the seams strong, flexible, and highly water-resistant. The seams of a TPO roof are up to four times stronger than EPDM seams, which must be sealed using adhesives.
- Color range. TPO is available in white, but it can also be manufactured in grey or black for aesthetic purposes.
How Does It Perform Against Other Synthetic Roofs
Property owners are split when choosing between thermoplastic olefin and polyvinyl chloride .The two other synthetic materials are durable, provide excellent UV resistance, insulation, and even have higher PPI and less prone to piercing compared to EPDM roofs.
However, they are quite expensive. EPDM roofs cost about $0.4 per square feet. Meanwhile, TPO roofs cost $5-$9 per square feet and PVC costs about $7-$10 per square feet. If maintained well, EPDM roofs can last 15-30 years, the same lifespan as both TPO and PVC. Colored EPDM roofs can cost about $0.8-$1.00 per square feet, which are still not a bad deal for added UV resistance and thermal shock.
EPDM roofs are capable of resisting hail damage, cyclic fatigue, and they will not fold against low-temperature flexibility, which affects asphalt shingles and modified bitumen.
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How To Choose Roofing Underlayment Thats Right For Your Roof
The most important part of deciding how to choose a roofing underlayment thats right for your home is finding what works best with your roof type.
Metal roofs, for example, will do well with a synthetic underlayment that has a higher heat-resistance , while a traditional asphalt shingle roof will probably do best with a roofing felt underlayment.
Its also important to consider the environment where you live and what the typical climate is. If you live in a hotter climate, then you want to choose an underlayment that can handle the heat, whereas if you live in a climate that is frequently snowy, youll need something thats heavy-duty.
Lastly, youll want to consider price when it comes to choosing your underlayment. Different roofing underlayment works well with different budgets. Decide on your budget, and then you can more easily see what underlayment options are available to you.
Epdm Rubber Roofing: Pros Cons And Cost To Install
Reviewed by Tomas Kalkys. President.Qualifications: More than 20 years of experience in residential and commercial exterior remodeling.Founding farther of Legacy Service.Written by LegacyUSA Team
Get Estimates From Roofing Pros
EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane thats extremely durable and used on buildings around the world. Its available in both black and white, and you can find it in a variety of widths and thicknesses. Cost-effectiveness and durability are two reasons why EPDM roofing is one of the most popular flat roof systems currently used in the United States.
In this article, well discuss everything you need to know about EPDM rubber roofing, from the costs to the pros and cons to the most frequently asked questions. Whether youre in need of roofing installation, siding replacement, or another type of service, you can rely on our team of professionals here at Legacy Service. Contact us at .
Not a real zip code.
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Why These Layers Are Useful
You may be wondering why all these pieces of the roof are necessary. The most basic answer is protection. Without layers and underlayment, your home would feel colder, more damp, and, in the event the shingles got damaged, would be dripping with water almost immediately.
Underlayment is especially vital for several reasons:
Remove Everything From The Roof
It is likely that you have some things on the roof of an RV that you need to remove. That can include roof vents, skylight domes, antennas. You need to remove all of that, leave nothing behind. It includes termination bars, strips everything that you have on the roof must be uninstalled and set aside.
It is quite easy to remove these with a simple screwdriver. Usually, it is a ¼ head screwdriver. Scrap off all sealant from these elements too, use a putty knife or a 5-in-1 tool for that. Clean them thoroughly so you can install them back later.
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How To Remove A Rubber Roof Membrane
- Written by Brandi Grays on Jan 17, 2010To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.Reviewed by
A rubber roof membrane is an essential part of any successful rubber roofing job. However, if you want to change the style of your roof, youll have to remove the rubber roof membrane. This can be achieved rather easily and without much expense on your part. You will only need a few readily available tools.
One thing to consider before performing the tear-off is the way that the roof was initially installed. The following procedure will guide you through the tear-off of a roof that was applied with liquid or latex adhesive. If your rubber roof was nailed down you will need to have a hammer available to remove nails. If staples were used, you will have to be able to remove them as well. Dont worry, however, rubber roofing is the easiest to remove and doesnt require a professional.
Step 1Check the Weather
It is easiest to remove the rubber membrane when the rubber is warm. When the rubber is cold it can become rigid and stiff. If it is at all possible you should wait for warm weather to remove the membrane. Check the forecast to determine the best time to begin the project.
Step 2Cut the Rubber Membrane
Step 3Remove the Membrane
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Things Youll Need To Install Rubber Roofing
Now the fun parthow to install your own rubber roofing. Because many rubber roofs might have a lower lifespan compared to other roofing materials , it can save a lot of money by knowing how to DIY rubber roofing repair and replacement.
So today, well walk you through the steps to get it done right the first time. Of course, if you doubt your abilities and instead have the pros take care of itcall Gouge Roofing.
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Considering An Epdm Roof For Your Business
A new roof is one of the most expensive improvements you make to your building and is what ultimately offers it the most protection from the elements. That makes it vital to know about the benefits and drawbacks of EPDM roofs before deciding whether or not to buy one. Youll also want to consider your long-term plans for your building and whether or not an EPDM roof is suited for them, as shingle or metal roofs typically add more value to a building. In the end, working with an expert can provide you with the knowledge you need to make the right decision for your business.
Hire An Expert Rubber Roofer Near You
As with any other type of roof, hiring the right rubber roofing contractor near you is the most important step.
When installed correctly by a skilled Washington, D.C.-area roofer, a rubber roof can last 20 to 25 years.
But an incorrectly installed rubber roof will need to be replaced within just a few years. More importantly, a roof thats installed incorrectly can cause damage to the structure underneath.
If youre in the D.C. area and in need of a rubber roof contractor, contact us at Capitol Improvements for a free quote. We do both residential and commercial roofing.
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Repairing Punctures In Or Damage To The Epdm Membrane
Even though EPDM is incredibly durable and hard wearing, it can still suffer from punctures, caused by weather damage, objects such as tree branches falling onto the roof, animals, or other trades. However, one of the main advantages to EPDM is that it can be very easily repaired using a patch. There are also puncture-resistant single-ply membranes available .
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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Do You Need Roofing Help
If you are worried about storm damage or think you may have a roof leak…
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Why Roof Underlayment Is Important
Many areas require roofing underlayment. It is essential as it works as a moisture barrier, keeping your roof safe from rain and other harsh weather.
It provides your roof with an added layer of protection, supporting the work of your shingles. The underlayment and shingles are your home’s first line of defense from harmful elements caused by harsh weather conditions. In addition, they reflect the rays from the sun, block precipitation, and withstand wind.
However, shingles overlap and are not sealed at all corners. As a result, strong winds can lift the shingles, making them vulnerable to infiltration or tear-off by wind-driven rain. Shingles also become brittle as they age. Underlayment is the backup protection when shingles fail.
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Remove All Vent Covers Vents & Other Installed Items
To fully expose the existing roof membrane, remove any vents, vent covers, skylights, air conditioner rooftop units, antennas, satellite dishes, or other items from the roofs surface. It is important also that you do not forget to remove the plastic caps and any flanges around the plumbing vent.
Most of these items are easy to remove. You will have to remove any old lap sealant from the edges of the flange so you can get at the screws that will need to be removed. To remove the air conditioner, you will have to unscrew the four bolts holding them down.
These can be found inside the ceiling assembly on the interior of the RV. Once you have these out, you will be able to remove the rooftop unit. You will also have to disconnect any wiring between the top and bottom assemblies.
Be careful not to damage any of the items when removing them so they can be re-installed without an issue. When you have the components of the roof clean up all the edges, clean any remaining lap sealant from the flanges, and set everything aside.
Epdm Roof Membrane Thickness And Color Options
EPDM roof membrane comes in rolled sheets that are wide and long and manufactured in three common thicknesses:
- 45 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
- 60 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
- 90 Mil EPDM rubber roofing
With some manufacturers also offering a 75-mil EPDM membrane.
When considering membrane thickness for single ply roofing installation…
There are several factors your roofer will consider when making a recommendation.
Thickness directly correlates with the materials resistance to damage.
Those in high-risk zones for flying debris and severe storm conditions will want to choose a robust thickness for their EPDM rubber roofing.
Fully Adhered EPDM Roofing Detail
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Where To Use Epdm
EPDM hasnt replaced on all my jobs, but I use it for flat or low-slope roofs, and primarily on roofs that cant be seen from the ground. I tell customers that EPDM makes the ugliest roof theyll ever see but that they wont see it. Typically, a flat roof on a one-story addition can be seen from a second-floor window, but thats it. On rooftop , EPDM can be covered with a wood deck on pressure-treated sleepers, with outdoor or Astroturf, and even with concrete pavers. EPDM can also be painted with Hypalon paint, but the paint will have to be recoated every three or four years.
Epdm Roof Membrane Shrinkage
While EPDM roofs are easy to install, the installation MUST be carried out by someone who is trained in installing EPDM roofing. Otherwise, it is all to easy to fall victim to problems caused by incorrect installation, such as shrinkage, for example.
Some common reasons for shrinkage are:
- failure to fully adhere perimeters and angle changes
- not allowing the EPDM sheeting enough time to relax before installing
- not allowing for sheet expansion in warmer weather before applying
Left untreated, problems can develop until theyre much bigger than the original issue. They can lead to potential damage to not just the membrane and the roofing seams, but also to the underlying structure of the roof, drainage outlets and flashing.
A skilled EPDM roofing professional will take into account weather conditions when installing the EPDM membrane and allow it to relax/contract as required. In addition, they will not just cut the EPDM membrane to fit but will ensure that the roof is fully sealed, taking into account upstands and roofing features, and leaving sufficient overlap between the membranes to discourage further breaches .
Unfortunately, its likely that if your EPDM roof has been incorrectly installed, and has led to shrinkage, to the extent where you are seeing some of these problems, the only solution is to have it correctly installed by a trained professional roofer.
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