Rubber roofing, particularly EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer), is a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. This blog post explores the benefits, application techniques, and maintenance aspects of rubber roofing systems.
Benefits of Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing offers several advantages:
- Adaptability: Rubber-based roofing systems can be applied to virtually any roof surface, whether flat, spherical, curved, or slanted.
- Flexibility: EPDM offers flexural stability, accommodating deck movement and displacement.
- Reroofing: EPDM can be installed over existing moisture-free roof membranes, making it suitable for reroofing projects.
- Compatibility: It is compatible with many insulation materials.
- Code and Standardization: Progress by organizations like the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), Underwriters’ Laboratories, Inc. (UL), and Factory Mutual (FM) ensures quality and compliance.
- Ease of Maintenance.
- Proven Long-Term Performance.
Application Techniques
EPDM roofing systems can be applied using various techniques:
- Ballasted: This involves loosely laying the membrane and using ballast to provide resistance to wind-uplift forces.
- Fully Adhered: The membrane is fully attached to the roof deck using adhesives.
- Mechanically Fastened: The membrane is attached using mechanical fasteners.
Installation over Existing Roofs
One of the significant benefits of EPDM roofing is its reroofing flexibility. When the existing roof deck is moisture-free, EPDM can be installed directly over the old roof membrane.
Other Rubber Roofing Options
- Recycled Rubber Roofing: Made from ground rubber from recycled tires, this option is applied as a liquid emulsion that cures into a monolithic elastomeric membrane.
Rubber roofing, especially EPDM, presents a versatile, durable, and easy-to-maintain roofing solution. Its adaptability to various roof shapes, reroofing compatibility, and code compliance make it a reliable choice for property owners. Whether for new construction or reroofing, rubber roofing provides a long-term and sustainable option.
