Fixtures & Appliances
The ABCs of Rubberized Roofing
Everything to know about rubber EPDM roofing materials.
Rubber roofing is made of ethylene propylene diene monomer EPDM membranes, a roofing system composed of recycled rubber tires, slate, and sawdust.
EPDM rubber roofing, ranging from 45mm to 90mm thickness, comes in rolls and is applied to flat roofs using roofing adhesive. The rolls are overlapped, forming long sheets that contribute to home insulation and prevent air leaks.
The rubber roofing membranes have high resistance to ultraviolet (UV) rays, abrasion, and resistance against precarious corrosive materials such as acid, alkaline, and alcohol-based substances.
Unveiled in 1962, rubberized roofing remained unpopular until the early 1970s when builders warmed up to EPDM single-ply roofing membranes to beat the 1973 Middle East oil embargo that led to an escalation of asphalt roofing prices.
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EPDM roofing was then seen as an easy-to-install low cost alternative to asphalt roofing. Over the years, numerous enhancements have been made to rubber roofing materials to include double-sided seam tapes and customised primers.
What is rubber roofing made of?
Rubber roofing is made of recycled materials that include saw dust, slate dust, worn-down insulation, as well as recycled rubber elements from tyres.
The use of recycled materials helps to keep rubber roofing prices low.
Advantages of rubber roofing
1.) Cost-efficient: Rubber roofs are quite cheaper compared to other types of roofing materials.
2.) Low maintenance: In the unfortunate event of damage, rubber roofs are easy to fix – mostly requiring a liquid rubber or a heavy duty rubber adhesive tape.
3.) Durability: Designed to withstand harsh weather, they can last 20-30 years in normal climates and up to 40 years in favorable conditions.
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4.) Eco-friendly: Rubber roofs take little amount of energy to produce and are often 100% recyclable.
5.) Fire resistant: These roofs are fire resistant and homeowners in some countries get discounts from insurers for installing rubber roofs.
6.) Energy-efficient: Rubber roofs are good insulators – which helps to cut heating and cooling costs.
Disadvantages of rubber roofing
1.) Suitability: Installation over existing roofing requires additional decking. Moreover, rubber roofs are not ideal for large-scale residential applications.
2.) Aesthetics: The roofs, which have a common black color, do not have the aesthetic appeal that most homeowners would look for in a house.
3.) Installation concerns: Although large rubber rolls are easy to install, rubber shingles are difficult to fit and require the expertise of a roofing professional.
4.) Impairment: Rubberized roofing is susceptible to damage from falling objects and foot traffic.
