Hello World! Welcome Friends! Many homeowners have never heard of rubber being used as a roofing material, let alone being considered a viable option for their home. However, rubber’s versatility gives it an edge over other roofing materials. So, when you plan to replace your roof, consider rubber.
When we speak of versatility, we refer to the material’s toughness, aesthetics, and longevity. Furthermore, rubber is eco-friendly, meaning you can upgrade your roof and reduce your home’s ecofootprint. Such gains are why Rubber Roofing Direct is among the companies offering rubber roofing products.
But what are the pros and cons of using rubber, commonly called EPDM in the roofing industry? We shall discuss the two to help you learn about the material and make an informed decision.
Pros
1: Long-Lasting
An EPDM roof can last long, estimated at around 40-50 years, and requires little attention. Technology has birthed some rubber roofing products with a longer lifespan. Hence, your home’s roofing can last a lifetime without needing any replacement. Maintenance costs after installation are unbelievably low since the chances of leaks are extremely minimal if the installation is done properly. Moreover, most repairs can be done using a latex sealant.
2: Durability
You can install EPDM on a flat roof and not worry about durability since the material withstands different harsh weather conditions, including heavy rains, hail, snow, and strong winds. The rubber roofing will have excellent thermal shock because the material has incredible insulative properties. It will not become brittle and break due to fluctuating hot and cold temperatures. Nonetheless, the damage repair and restoration processes are fairly quick.
3: Ease of Installation
EPDM flat roofs are a less complicated and demanding construction compared to their pitched counterparts. The installation takes a short period considering that the roofing material comes packaged in rolls, meaning you roll it out on the surfaces and then secure it in place. You also can opt for rubber shingles with some designed to closely mimic slate roofing tiles.
Installation is unlikely to require specialized tools. You must clean and strip off the roof deck before applying the adhesive that makes the rubber adhere to the decking. You then roll out rubber, cut it to size, and spread the material by pressing hard on it as you smoothen it out to ensure you remove air bubbles.
4: Cost-Effective
Your home is an investment, and it must hold its value which calls for deliberate efforts to make necessary changes, repairs, and maintenance – they come at a cost. Therefore, opting for cost-effective roofing upgrades and other renovations to your property is understandable. It is a factor that propels EPDM’s popularity.
The low-price tag and installation costs put a smile on many homeowners. The roofing material is lightweight and uniquely packaged for easy installation. Thus, labor costs also go down. Installation costs for a standard 1,500 sq. ft. reinforced EPDM flat roof can be between $11,000 and $14,000
5: Energy Efficient
Rubber roofing traps heat within your home and reflects sun rays, thereby regulating indoor conditions. Ideally, the thicker the EPDM, the better the heat loss regulations compared to roofing materials made from PVC and TPO that reflect nearly 90% of the heat back into your building. Thus, a flat rubber roof is best if you live in a hot climate.
The roofing helps reduce your heating and cooling costs, allowing you to save significantly on your monthly energy bills. Maintenance costs are relatively low and can vary depending on the type of EPDM installed. For instance, a white or brightly colored roof requires more routine maintenance than its alternatives.
6: Distinct Applications
EPDM flat roofs are an excellent option when you are dealing with expansive buildings. Pitched roofs on such structures are too complex and costly. Moreover, the flat roof can be an empty space that you can utilize, like setting up a rooftop garden (green roof) whose benefits include heat regulation and improved air freshness. You also can install a massive solar power system since the area offers an opportunity for maximum exposure to the sun.
Cons
1: Low Aesthetic Appeal
Rubber in it’s standard appearance can make your home look drab, robbing it of its curb appeal. Hence, a black EPDM roof is likely to be unsightly, especially when your roof is low and easily spotted from higher places. Fortunately, you can use colored acrylic coatings that can also brighten up the surfaces or opt for digitally patterned rubber roofing products.
Slate-style options can offer an amazing finish, which makes them a perfect answer to any aesthetic concerns. In short, you can find rubber roofing products that improve your home’s efficiency and increase its curb appeal. So, do not be quick to give up; research and you will find suitable solutions that meet your taste, preferences, and concerns.
2: Susceptible to Impact
EPDM is a dense roofing material and thus susceptible to damage when impacted by anything that can puncture. Hence, hefty falling objects can tear the rubber roofing. It is a shortfall worth considering if you have trees surrounding your home.
Reinforced EPDM is a better investment instead of its non-reinforced counterpart if you worry about the roof being punctured
3: Expert Installation Required
Yes, we did say EPDM installation is relatively straightforward. However, you might doubt you made the right decision when you notice roofing problems arising because the installation was not done properly. Therefore, it is best to leave the job to an experienced roofer, but contracting an expert increases the installation costs. If you pay the premium to get an expert ensure there’s a self build structural warranty
It is a decision that ensures the quality of work done is consistent, thereby lowering the chances of cracks, leaks, and other problems after the rubber roofing installation. Take the time to research the roofers to ensure you pick a contractor who fits the bill. Avoid self-titled roofers because they often lack the training and experience required for installing rubber roofs.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
4 Useful Tips to Enhance Your DIY Home Renovation Project
How to Protect & Freeze Proof Home Irrigation Systems
Where to Find a Good Landscaper
What Are the Benefits of Concrete Roof Tiles?
What Does a Solicitor Do When Selling a House?
6 Reasons Why Your House Is Not Selling
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