The three most common materials used for roofing are polyvinyl chloride, ethylene propylene diene monomer, and EPDM. The former was once the common choice for most flat roofs. This material consists of a layer of roofing felt embedded in bitumen and applied with a hot mop. Coal tar pitch is a popular addition to this mixture, which blends with the bitumen-soaked roofing felt.
Before starting with new rubber roofing, you must remove the old one. If you want to install a new one, you need to strip the old roofing down to the plywood base completely. It’s good to cut the rubber for any vents, antennas, or chimneys. You should also clean the roof to remove all debris before applying the rubber. Finally, you should apply the adhesive and trim the excess rubber.
In order to maintain the integrity and functional life of your roof, you must perform routine cleanings regularly. It would be best to use a soft broom to remove small debris, and a mild detergent to scrub stubborn stains. Moreover, it’s also crucial to check the gutter system on your roof. You need to clean it annually and inspect it for any damages. Then, you can consider having your roof installed by a professional.
There are several pros and cons of rubber roofing. First, it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other materials. Rubber roofing requires no heat to be installed, making it a good option for various roofing projects. It’s incredibly durable and can last up to 50 years, depending on the material and the installation. Plus, it has less seams than traditional materials, which means that water shouldn’t leak through the roof. Rubber roofing is also resistant to fire, pests, mold, and mildew and can be recycled for a greener planet.
Unlike traditional roofing materials, rubber roofs don’t need a lot of maintenance. Most leaks can be fixed with a patch of latex tape and small rolls of rubber roofing. However, if you need to repair a leak, you can simply patch it by adding more liquid rubber or a new layer of rubber. A liquid rubber coating of your roof system may be necessary every ten years. This way, you’ll save money on future maintenance and prevent the need to replace the entire system.
Another benefit of rubber roofing is that it is easy to install. Rubber roofing is lightweight, making it easy to install. This reduces the labor cost associated with installing a roof. Rubber roofing also requires no adhesives to patch cracks, which greatly benefits many situations. And because rubber is highly fire-resistant, it won’t burn if struck by lightning, but it will help slow the spread of fire. It also reduces the overall heat gain from the roof, offering additional insulation.
Another benefit of rubber roofs is their low maintenance requirements. Rubber roofs typically last between thirty and fifty years compared to asphalt shingles. In addition to being low-maintenance, rubber roofs can withstand high winds and heavy rain without cracking or leaking. They can also withstand dry sun damage. This makes them a great option for commercial rooftops. But if you are concerned about maintaining a leaky roof, you can always invest in an EPDM roof.
Installation of rubber roofing is simpler than that of shingle roofs. In fact, rubber roofing can be installed over shingles already installed. Before installing a rubber roof, you can apply a layer of foam over the existing shingles to act as insulation. Then, rubber roofing will cover the entire surface, reducing the work needed to install a new roof. And because of its reflective qualities, rubber roofing reduces cooling costs.
Another benefit of rubber roofing is that it’s a green option. It uses less energy and is completely recyclable. It’s also resistant to extreme weather and has few maintenance requirements. In addition to this, rubber roofing is low maintenance. If you notice any damage to your roof, you can repair it easily with a sealant kit. It also extends the life of your rubber roof. Rubber roofing is an excellent choice for many reasons. The material lasts for many years and is eco-friendly.