RUBBER MEMBRANE
Suited for low-slope (flat roofs) – EPDM, TPO, and PVC & Rubber Shingles
Fire-resistant and holds up well to hail.
Ease of installation using singular, seamless sheets of rubber.
Low slope roofing.
DESCRIPTION
Rubber roofs are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners because of their many advantages. For one, the cost of installing this type of roof is lower than installing asphalt or slate roofs. They are more durable and lower maintenance at the same time. Considering the high cost of installing and repairing a roof, investing in a low-maintenance, highly durable roof like a rubber one is often the right choice for many homeowners.
At the low end of the spectrum, however, you can opt for an EPDM roof installation without any coatings or repairs. At the high end, the choice to have a colored, reinforced PVC rubber roofing installed along with an additional coating, a sealant, and having it foam sprayed for additional insulation.
Rubber roofs are still relatively unknown to many homeowners, but they are quickly gaining popularity across the U.S. This roof can be made of rubber, plastic polymers, or a combination of rubber and plastic polymers. The rubber used to make these roofs is made of recycled tires, slate dust, and sawdust, making them very eco-friendly and very durable.
TYPES & STYLES
Rubber Shingles or Flat Rubber Roofing
Many homeowners have a common dilemma of whether to install a flat rubber roof or use shingles. Each of these types has its advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, flat roofs are less expensive, but aesthetically don’t look as good. This is because rubber shingles add texture and a visual impact, while a flat roof is made of a solid rubber roll and don’t have a shingle look to it.
Rubber Shingles
Rubber shingles are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. They are very energy-efficient, fire-resistant, and capable of withstanding high winds and harsh weather. However, they are not aesthetically pleasing and will probably require painting after 10 to 12 years.
Rubber Flat Roofs
The flat roofs are not actually flat but rather have a lower slope than other roofs. Depending on the size of your roof, the average rainfall in your area, and the style of the home, you can install four different flat roofs: single-ply membrane, modified bitumen, built-up roof (bur), or metal roof.
There are three types of materials used for rubber roofs: EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). The materials used to install roofs of these materials are typically called membranes. Membrane roofing is used to create a watertight covering that protects the interior from leaks and reinforces the roof construction at the same time.
Each of the materials used to install a rubber roof has pros and cons, making them adequate for different roofs and in various settings. Your roofing consultant can advise you on the cost of this type of roofing and what might work best for your particular needs. Knowing some information upfront will help you with the decision.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM rubber roofs have been used for over 60 years and are among the most cost-efficient roofing materials. EPDM membranes don’t require a torch for the installation, making the installation simpler and cheaper than other materials. EPDM roof membranes are very durable. Roofs made of this material can last over 60 years while providing resistance to water, heat, and fire. However, they only come in a black color, which may not be aesthetically pleasing for many homeowners
TPO Roofs
A TPO roof is the most energy-saving roof type that requires contractors to install fully adhered or attach it mechanically to the roof. Unlike EPDM, TPO roofs come in multiple colors, which gives homeowners the freedom to choose whichever color matches the facade of the house. The materials adhere to ASTM requirements, which guarantees that it’s capable of withstanding rough weather and hailstorms.
However, they are a relatively new technology. Their durability is not fully tested yet, but typically the roof lasts between 15 to 20 years. The TPO roofing cost per square foot is higher than EPDM roofing because of how the membranes are made and the installation process.
PVC Roofs
PVC roofing compensates where EPDM and TPO roofs lack, which is resistance. PVC roofs are fire-resistant, wind-resistant, watertight, and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making them one of the sturdiest roof materials out there. Because the seams are sealed with hot air, the roofs are very energy efficient. Due to their composition, PVC membranes are environmentally friendly. They can be produced in a variety of colors.
The typical lifespan of PVC roofs is around 20 years, but repairs are required after ten years. Because the seams are sealed with hot air, the repairs can only be done in warmer weather to be effective. In addition to this, you would need to remove the old roof to install a PVC roof, which adds to the installation costs.