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Rubber Roofing Shingles – Types, Materials, Pros, Cons, And Lifespan

    Here, I’ll be telling you all you need to know about rubber roof shingles, the types, and how they are installed.

    Keep reading!

    Rubber Roofs For Houses

    Rubber roofs have become popular over the years. This is because they have unique advantages that other roof types don’t.

    If you’re planning to redo your roofing and considering using rubber roofs, then you’ve come to the right place.

    Pros And Cons Of Rubber Roofing

    Are rubber roofs suitable? Yes.

    The good thing about rubber roofing is that it caters to many rooftop applications. They are especially ideal for flat and low-sloped roofs.

    SEE: Florida Roofing Types

    Another advantage of rubber roofing is that it offers your building excellent water-tight protection. This is very advantageous if you have a flat or low-pitched roof.

    Traditional shingles cannot offer this type of protection. Even though they can protect against moisture on steep roofs, they aren’t that good on flat roofs.

    Types Of Rubber RThanksg

    Thanks to its many advantages; you will find that most modern roofs are made with one or more types of rubber roofing membrane.

    It would interest you to know that not all rubber roofing is made of rubber. Some are made with plastic PVC material, which some people confuse with rubber.

    Additionally, not all rubber roofs have the same quality, and you should keep this in mind when searching for the correct type of roofing for your home.

    Each of these rubber roof types has its strong points. They also have their disadvantages, so you can make your decision based on which suits your unique situation.

    Consider these rubber roofing options.

    EPDM Rubber Roofing

    Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, also called EPDM for short, is one of the most common roofing materials in the market.

    One of the reasons why it is so popular is its ability to last for many years. No rubber roofing type can last longer than EPDM.

    That aside, EPDM is also one of the oldest types of rubber roofing being used to this day. This is a testament to its quality and toughness.

    It is also the cheapest type of rubber roofing. So you might want to consider it if you’re on a tight budget.

    Generally speaking, below are thethree3 main types of rubber roofing.

    1. Single-Ply membranes

    You could try single-ply membranes if you’re looking for a more modern type of rubber roofing.

    It is excellent for commercial buildings,s and it has grown in popular example of single-ply membranes is  Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

    1. Built-up roofing

    Built-up roofing or BUR is another old type of rubber roofing. And it is installed by placing many layers of roofing felt over the other.

    The felts are made with asphalt and are embedded in Bitumen to form a monolithic roof membrane.

    1. Modified Bitumen

    Modified Bitumen has been used as far back as the 1960s and was created as a substitute for BUR. It is different from BUR because it is made with an extra layer of cap sheets or polymer.

    These materials give modified Bitumen more elasticity when under cold temperatures. This feature prevents it from breaking in icy conditions.

    Rubber Roof Materials

    As I mentioned earlier, not all rubber roofing is made of rubber. Some are made with plastic polymers (sometimes mixed with rubber).

    The materials used to make rubber roofs are eco-friendly and don’t produce toxic fumes or gasses. Typically, they are made with materials from recycled tires, slate dust, and sawdust.

    Thanks to its elasticity, rubber roofing does not become brittle during the winter. And this makes it better than other roofing types regarding water-tight protection and long-lasting ability.

    How Long Does A Rubber Roof Last?

    EPDM rubber roofing can last for as long as 25 years before it would need fixes or replacement. A good quality TPO roofing can last even longer than that if it is reinforced with fiberglass.

    As for modified bitumen roofs, they can last for up to 12 years before they would need fixes or replacement. While built-up roofs (BUR, have a lifespan of about 20 years.

    Tips To Maintain Your Rubber Roof

    Rubber roofs may have long lifespans, but you’ll get the most out of them if you practice regular maintenance.

    Here’s what you can do to keep your rubber roofs in good shape.

    1. Practice regular inspection

    You could look at your sloped rubber roof from the ground, but climbing up a ladder will give you a much better view.

    Inspecting your roof is very important, especially after heavy rainfall or storm. You can call a professional roofer to take a look if you don’t feel comfortable climbing up a ladder.

    Clear out any debris and check to see if the seams are beginning to lift.

    1. Remove debris

    There is no way your rubber roof will go for months without accumulating some dust and other forms of debris. And this is why you should climb up a few times a year to sweep off the dirt.

    You would want to get rid of all the leaves, pieces of tree branches, and abandoned bird nests that have fallen on your roof.

    A broom and a ladder are the only tools you need. But make sure you’re safe by putting on non-slip boots and a hard helmet.

    Once again, call a roofing professional if you’re not okay with climbing up a ladder.

    1. Clean the gutters

    One of the most vital parts of roof maintenance is ensuring that your gutters are clean and unclogged.

    Debris accumulation can stop roof water from flowing down and cause it to settle on your roof. Even though rubber roofs are great at water protection, why put them under stress?

    Conclusion

    Rubber roofs are durable and can easily be installed by a roofing professional. They can also last longer and are affordable; it might just be the correct type of roof for you.

    I hope this article has been helpful.

    Take care!

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