Cost To Replace An Epdm Roof
Replacing may cost a little bit more than just applying EPDM rubber roofing to your home. If you need to remove the old roof, youll probably have to add about $1 to $2 more per square foot. Codes will vary from area to area, but if theres only one layer, you most likely wont need to remove the old roof. Two or more layers will typically require removal, though.
Cons Of Epdm Roofing:
- Absorbs heat. EPDM is naturally black, so it offers less heat protection than rubber roof materials that are lighter in color. EPDM can be ordered in grey or white for an additional cost.
- Potential weak seams. EPDM seams are sealed with adhesive or tape, which leaves them more prone to leaking than hot air-welded seams.
2. TPO
Thermoplastic polyolefin, or TPO, is a single-ply roofing material that is similar to EPDM but different in several key ways. First, TPO is a relatively new product in the roofing industry, which means its not as time-tested as EPDM and PVC roofing.
However, TPO was created as a more economical and energy-efficient alternative to these other rubber roofing materials, making it a popular choice.
Detailed Information On Epdm Rubber
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, and that is the chemical name of the synthetic rubber useful in a wide range of applications, including flat roofs, but also for door and window seals in vehicles, non-slip coatings for playgrounds and decks, and much more.
The ethylene, propylene, and diene comonomer can be crosslinked via Sulfur vulcanisation thanks to the last ingredient. EPDM is an M-Class rubber, meaning that it is an elastomer with a saturated chain of the polyethene type . EPR was the predecessor of EPDM, but it could only be crosslinked with peroxides and other radical techniques. Thanks to adding the diene units, the process of creating rubber became much easier.
EPDM and other kinds of rubber with saturated polymer backbones are much more resistant to ozone, light, and heat than the unsaturated variants, such as SBR, natural rubber, or polychloroprene . EPDM can be prepared in such a way it can stand as high temperatures as 150 °C. With correct installation, it can be used as a roofing material or another outdoor solution and serve for many years or even decades without much damage.
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Advantages To Using Epdm Roofing
The biggest advantage that EPDM roofing has over other types of flat roofing materials is its cost. At .80 a square foot, this is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials around. Its also extremely easy to install, so whether you do it yourself or you hire a professional, the costs are low in that area as well.
EPDM rubber roofing is also very lightweight, so the roof deck doesnt need any kind of reinforcement. In fact, the best way to install this material is to strip everything right off the roof, apply an adhesive then roll out the roofing. Because there are few seams, leaks are fairly rare and a good quality EPDM roof can last up to 20 years.
Installers also have options of how they will install the material. In addition to using adhesive to attach hit to the roof, there are also fasteners that can be used to anchor it in difficult to reach areas. It can also be ballasted with stone, which may help to improve its appearance.
This type of roofing is fairly durable, doesnt scratch or scuff easily, and can be easily repaired if a leak does occur. Liquid roofing membranes, latex tape or adhesives, and some types of rubber shingles can be installed over the EPDM roofing to repair and patch leaks that may develop over time. And while the material is black and does absorb heat, it isnt easily damaged by UV rays, which helps it hold up well in sunny climates.
Useful Links For Epdm Roofing Information
1. General: See this in-depth general article about various roof systems on the Whole Building Design Guide site, which is maintained by the National Institute of Building Sciences.
2. General: For a decent general discussion of EPDM as a material, see the Wikipedia EPDM page. Not much information specific to EPDM roofing, though.
3. General: The EPDM Roofing Association has thorough and accurate information at this location . Just remember that this is an industry association that was formed with the purpose of providing data documenting the many benefits of EPDM roofing systems .
4. General: Industry news can be found on the EPDM Roofing Association website.
5. Building Codes: R905.12 Thermoset Single-Ply Roofing from the 2015 International Residential Code and 1507.12 Thermoset Single-Ply Roofing from the 2018 International Building Code. Both available on the UpCodes website.
6. Chemical Compatibility of EPDM: See this chart for a long list of chemicals and whether you can expect them to damage EPDM. Note that EPDM roof seam adhesive and semi-cured or uncured EPDM flashings may be affected differently than fully-cured EPDM field material. Chart is made available by Mykin Inc.
9. Safety: See this material safety data sheet for health and safety information about EPDM at the Carlisle Syntec website. This is only an example and other products and brands may be different.
12. Technical: Ballasted EPDM, what is it? See this page on the Carlisle Syntec website.
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How Much Does Epdm Rubber Roofing Cost
The most up to date pricing for our products is available by following the links in the section below.
Although EPDM rubber roofing systems can be a little more expensive than its alternatives, the return on your investment is significantly higher. The cost for professional installation will depend on the total square footage of the job. The complexity of the roof itself will also factor in. Smaller, straightforward jobs can be completed quickly and easily at a more affordable rate. Larger, bespoke projects will be reflected in the cost.
Fix-R EPDM Membrane
As a rough guideline, we would estimate that a professional company would charge between £60-£80 per square metre. This is not factoring in the VAT, labour costs, disposal and any scaffolding required to complete the job.
If you have the experience to install the rubber membrane yourself or wish to purchase the materials for someone else to install, it helps to know the costs involved. A high-quality membrane is essential and Fix-R EPDM Membrane provides just that.
Youll also need an adhesive, which Fix-R EPDM Water Based Acrylic Deck Adhesive offers the perfect solution for. Fix-R EPDM Bonding Adhesive is ideal to use around the edges of the roof, or in more complex areas where bonding may prove to be an issue.
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How Do You Apply Epdm Rubber Roofing
In this manner, can you walk on EPDM rubber roofing?
Can you walk on a rubber roof – Yes, but only to an extent. All RKD Rubber Roofing Systems are designed to enable LIGHT foot traffic during installation and for any occasional cleaning or maintenance. Install Promenade Tiles/decking straight onto the EPDM membrane.
Also, how long do rubber membrane roofs last? 40 years
Similarly one may ask, is EPDM roofing any good?
EPDM rubber roofing is also very lightweight, so the roof deck doesn’t need any kind of reinforcement. Because there are few seams, leaks are fairly rare and a good quality EPDM roof can last up to 20 years. Installers also have options of how they will install the material.
How much does a roll of rubber roof cost?
Rubber roofing commonly comes in a roll or sheet often referred to as a membrane. On average, you’ll spend about $7,500 for 1,500 sq. feet with a range of $6,000-$18,000.
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Pro: A Longlasting Low Maintenance Solution That Looks Good
EPDM roofing is leagues ahead of some older traditional flat roof material, such as felt for example. Rubber roofing is suitable for extreme conditions, giving you one of the most durable and reliable roofs available that typically lasts between 30-50 years.
In time, you may find a felt flat roof can pick up moss and algae the synthetic rubber doesnt support the growth of moss so you are guaranteed a clear roof! It also doesnt easily show dirt, meaning less time spent for you up on the roof cleaning!
Epdm Roofing Cost Per Square Metre
Its easy to find out how much EPDM you need for any flat roofing project by taking advantage of our experts on 01752 692 760 or using ClassicBonds EPDM roofing kit calculator. This kit selector will ask you the area of the flat roof and which trims you may need. Once its got this information it will present you with a final total and breakdown of your kit. You can choose to add trims or not – the choice is yours!
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How Long Do Rubber Membrane Roofs Last
You can expect your EPDM rubber roof to last for 50 years or more. This is thanks to continuing innovation in the manufacturing of EPDM membranes. The material is not susceptible to damage from exposure to UV light such as shrinkage, nor will it rot or be damaged by precipitation. Rubber roofs are also shear resistant, and able to withstand high winds.
Where To Use Epdm
EPDM roofing systems are considered to be the ultimate weather protector. They provide protection from wind, rain, hail, sunlight, and extreme temperatures. If you have a flat or low slope roof that cant be seen from the ground and needs plenty of protection, this type of material is highly recommended. It may not be pretty, but it does its job.
On rooftop decks, EPDM can be covered with a wood deck, outdoor carpet, or Astroturf. It can also be painted with Hypalon paint, but it will have to be repainted every three or four years. If youre looking for EPDM roofing contractors near me, please feel free to contact us at any time.
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Other Thermoset Types And Costs
EPDM isnt the only type of flat roof there are a variety of other thermoset types with differing costs. The demand for roofing has grown since last year, manufacturers are increasing the prices for their materials. If youre planning to install a new roof this year, we recommend getting started as early as possible. Fortunately, youve found a roofing company you can trust. One of our technicians will help you select the roofing type thats best for your home and needs. Take a look at the various materials used for flat roofing below and contact us if youre interested in any of them:
Frequently Asked Questions About Epdm Roofs
Still have questions about EPDM roofing? Youve come to the right place! In this section, weve answered some of the questions were most frequently asked about this material. Take a look and see if we answered your question. If you have any more questions, please feel free to schedule a free consultation with one of our roofing experts!
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Epdm Wins A Nobel Prize
A German scientist called Karl Ziegler is responsible for the scientific breakthrough that led to the EPDM production process, while working on polymerisation. He realised that there were traces of nickel in the autoclave used for the reactions, which caused the reaction to stop. By using a titanium and aluminium-based catalyst instead, and carrying out the reaction under atmospheric conditions, Ziegler and his students discovered that not only could the reaction be accelerated, but it produced a polymer that was strong, flexible and had a high tolerance for heat and cold. In addition, this could be done at normal pressure.
Before this discovery, ethylene had been considered difficult to polymerise, with high pressures and high temperatures needed. The polyethylene that came from Zieglers discovery was therefore not only easier to produce, but also was more rigid and had a better resistance to high temperatures than its high-pressure counterpart. Within 3 years of the discovery, 200 metric tons of the new plastic had been produced.
Ziegler disclosed his catalyst to the Montecatini Company, where an Italian scientist called Giulio Natta was acting as a consultant. Natta expanded on Zieglers work, and the Ziegler-Natta catalyst was born. In 1963, Karl Ziegler and Giulio Natta were awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry for their work on controlled polymerisation, which greatly enhanced the progress of plastics and their applications.
Alternatives To Epdm Roofs
While EPDM roofs are popular, they arent the only option if you want to install or already have a flat roof. These other materials are alternatives to EPDM, and depending on your needs, its important to understand the benefits and disadvantages of each.
Other Single Ply: Polyvinyl chloride roofs are excellent at reflecting heat. Theyre also ideal for restaurants, as animal fats and chemicals are easily cleaned from them. Thermoplastic polyolefin is another highly popular roofing membrane material and is similarly lightweight and reflective. However, these types can be more easily damaged than an EPDM roof coating.
Asphalt: A cheap and durable roofing material, asphalt is easy to install and repair. It can be shaped to the form of any rooftop vents or features your building has. However, asphalt is heavy and absorbs heat. Over time it will dry out and crack, and cause leaks around your vents unless regularly maintained.
Metal: Metal roofs come in a variety of styles and may better match the aesthetic of your business. They also require few repairs and excel at protecting a building from the elements, including heat, which they reflect in abundance. However, metal roofs are costly to purchase and install and may not be appropriate for your business.
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How Much Does A Rubber Roof Cost
Single-ply rubber roofing costs anywhere from $1 to $12 per square foot.
The final cost largely depends on the specific material. The thickness of said material and whether the installer fully adheres , mechanically fastens , or uses ballast , also plays a role in pricing.
Additionally, project costs will increase if you need to tear off existing materials and add decking or insulation during the roof replacement. Penetrations such as skylights, HVAC units, and chimneys will also add to costs as they introduce more roof installation complications.
Pros And Cons Of Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing is something a lot of homeowners have probably never heard of or certainly never considered for their own home. But perhaps it is the time that many of them did.
This article is not designed to encourage the homeowner to buy one particular type of roof, but rather to arm the homeowner with enough facts and knowledge so the homeowner can make in informed roofing decision.
A rubber roof, known in the roofing business as an EPDM roof, has a lot of advantages and only a few disadvantages. One of the big advantages to rubber is the cost. Although a homeowner must use a licensed installer to lay down this roof, the cost of the entire job still favorably compares to the cost for other types of roofing. Not only is the roofing material itself less expensive than most other choices, but the product is also lightweight, and installation is fast and easy, reducing labor and installation costs. The rubber is glued into place, negating the use of heat, which can adversely affect a homeowners insurance policy.
Another large advantage of rubber is that if the roof ever does have a leak, repairs are fast, easy and extremely inexpensive. In many cases a tube of liquid rubber is all that is needed in other cases, a special tape designed specifically for repairing rubber will do the job. In any event, repairing one of these roofs, if and when it should become necessary, is almost never a problem.
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Rubber Will Inevitably Shrink = Leaks
Another inherent design problem is that after a few years, this roof membrane simply begins to shrink, slowly pulling away from parapet walls, flashings, corners, drains and other areas. At that point, leaks start penetrating these weak points. Shrinkage is a particularly serious problem on a larger size roof.
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 To Maintain Epdm Rubber Roofing
While rubberised roofing is extremely durable and damage resistant, over time it will require cleaning and occasional repairs. Protecting the material is a relatively straightforward process that will ensure you get the most out of the system.
Cleaning the rubber will help to maintain the strength of the surface. Ensuring that a cleaning procedure is in place will ensure it remains resistant to potential heat cracks.
Rubber Roofing System
Any debris on the roof such as leaves or stones need to be swept away and gutters must be cleared. For any stubborn dirt such as moss or algae, a combination of warm water and dishwashing soap should suffice.
As is the case with the maintenance of any roof, prevention is always better than the cure. Inspecting and cleaning the roof at least 2-4 times a year will enable you to keep on top anything that requires attention. The sooner any damage is spotted, the faster it can be repaired without running up unnecessarily high bills.
