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What is a Rubber Roof?

What is a Rubber Roof?

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A rubber roof is a durable and cost effective roof option for a flat roof. Lots of flat roofs and hot tar roofs are problematic because they have chronic leaking problems in even the lightest of rainstorms. Furthermore, asphalt shingles can be a bad option since on low-pitched or flat roofs, they do not offer much protection. A rubber roof, which installs easily and protects against leaks, may be a great alternative.

What is a Rubber Roof?

Shingles of the traditional variety work best when gravity is working with them, pulling water down and away from the roofing, over the top of the shingles. If your roof has a low pitch, however, you need something that will keep your roof especially dry and leak free, since gravity is not helping. Commercial buildings often use rubber roofs, and they can be used in your home as well. There are many benefits of using a rubber roof system, and it is very easy to install a rubber roof.

You can use ethylene propylene diene m-class rubber (EPDM) roofing on your house in order to protect your roof from leaks, and you do not need highly specialized equipment in order to make this switch possible. You also do not to need to use an open flame while you do construction.

Purchase enough EPDM rubber roof to cover your roof – the material comes in large rolls – and purchase the appropriate adhesive to fasten it to the base of the roof. Next, clean the surface of any existing shingle debris, nails, and loose roof boards, replacing the boards or refastening them as needed. Fill gaps with wooden strips if they are larger than ¼ inches wide – this step is critical in order to make the EPDM roofing protect you properly.

Next, roll the EPDM from one side of the roof to the other, starting at the bottom of the roof, and then let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, fold up the bottom half of the membrane onto the top half. Your next step is to clean the exposed roof with a broom and apply your adhesive with a roller to both the EPDM membrane and the exposed roof deck. Repeat this with the other half of the EPDM membrane. Continue the process, letting the membranes overlap each other by six inches. Be sure to install this only when you do not expect rain for three days: before it is officially waterproof, the adhesive needs to sit for 48 hours.

A rubber roof can also be installed by a roofing professional for a cost effective and functional roof that helps keep your home or office free of leaks.

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