How Long Do Rubber Roofs Last?

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Every homeowner is always looking for rubber roofs with a long life expectancy. But, of course, no one wants roofing materials that cause them an early roof replacement.

But, on the other hand, flat roofs of rubber or other roofing materials can comfort you past 50 years.

But, the lifespan of any flat rubber roof depends on

  • The roofing contractor
  • Roofing material, for example, EPDM membrane, recycled materials, or modified bitumen
  • Weather, for example, extreme heat
  • Building, for example, a commercial building
  • Installation, whether installed properly or not

We’ll discuss all that. And more, that is, in this article.

Average Rubber Roof Lifespan

For several reasons, rubber roofs outlive other roofing materials. In addition, EPDM roofing is designed to be extremely resistant to

  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Ozone
  • Ultraviolet rays

EPDM roofing is also resistant to high temperatures and fire. Thus, it’s so popular in commercial applications.

However, how long do rubber roofs last? A properly installed rubber roof will endure between 40 and 50 years. But that’s if properly maintained. Of course, professionally installed rubber roofs will last considerably longer.

Your roofing contractor should build your rubber roof such that water drains away. And which may include particular flashing to guide water away from vulnerable surfaces.

Types of Rubber Roofing and How Long they Last

EPDM Roofing/Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer

Among roofing materials, Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer is the most popular. And if you buy a flat roof made of rubber, you’ll likely find the material. But, of course, that includes commercial roofs on commercial buildings too.

Pros

  • Long lifespan. Among rubber roofs, EPDM roofs have the longest life expectancy.
  • Original rubber roof. These EPDM membranes are original. As a result, any rubber roof installed correctly stands the test of time.
  • Lower cost. Among the low-cost options, EPDM roof systems floor some metal roofs.

Cons

  • Absorbs heat. Naturally, EPDM is black. And for that reason, they offer less heat protection, unlike other roofing materials.
  • Potential weak seams. Some manufacturers seal EPDM seams using tape or adhesive. However, that method leaves flat EDM roofs susceptible to leaks. Unlike EPDM membrane seams, hot-air welded ones fight water leaks.

EPDM Roof Characteristics

In addition to the following, an EPDM roof membrane is typical flat roofing material.

  • TPO
  • PVC
  • Asphalt

It comes from reclaimed rubber, sawdust, and slate dust. Manufacturers then convert them into flat single-ply roofing membranes. As a result, a UL-certified EPDM commercial roof is exceptionally robust. And efficiently insulate properties, reflect UV rays, and withstand weather effects.

TPO

TPO is a single-ply rubber roof. And to begin with, TPO roofing lacks the longevity of EPDM or PVC roofing because it is a newer product on the market.

TPO, on the other hand, is inexpensive. And an energy-efficient option compared to other rubber roofing materials. Also, it’s a proven popular choice.

Pros:

  • Flexible and long-lasting. TPO is very flexible. Thus it can survive collisions and other sorts of possible damage better.
  • Environmentally responsible. TPO doesn’t include some chemicals used to manufacture other roofing materials. Chlorine is one of them. Because TPO is UV resistant, you can spend less energy cooling your house in the summer. TPO is entirely recyclable.
  • Technology-based on hot air. TPO seams are robust, flexible, and water-resistant since they are hot air-welded. In addition, TPO roof seams are up to four times stronger than EPDM seams. They must be sealed with adhesives.
  • Color palette. TPO is often created in white. However, it may also be produced in grey or black for aesthetic purposes.

Cons:

  • New technology. TPO was introduced to the roofing business in the 1990s. Thus, making it a newer rubber roofing material than the others.
  • Inconsistent formulas. TPO makers are still figuring out the optimum compositions for their companies. And consumers too. As a result, TPO goods from some manufacturers are less costly. But more prone to failure. For example, selecting a roofer that employs a high-quality TPO product is critical. And that’s when installing a TPO roof.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a thermoplastic polymer comparable to TPO. As a result, it has similar advantages in terms of flexibility. And water resistance, as well as hot air-weldable seams.

PVC, on the other hand, includes plasticizers and chlorine salts. They give it distinct advantages and disadvantages over TPO.

Pros:

  • Even more adaptable. Due to the plasticizers and other chemical components, PVC is more flexible than TPO. That makes it strong and resistant to construction settlement.
  • A tried-and-true product. Roofers have used PVC for almost 50 years. As a long-standing industry favorite, finding a PVC roofing contractor is easier. And that’s unlike a newer product like TPO.
  • Energy-saving. PVC, like TPO, is energy efficient. And may help you save money on your cooling expenses during the hot summer months.

Cons:

  • Chemical decomposition. PVC rubber roofing often degrades faster than TPO or EPDM. That’s due to the plasticizers and chemical components.
  • Chlorine is present. Because PVC rubber roofing contains the chemical chlorine, it is less eco-friendly. And that’s compared to TPO.

What are the Benefits of Rubber Roofing?

  • It is reasonably priced – it may be less expensive than other roofing materials.
  • Lightweight.
  • Installation is quick and simple. As a result, installation and labor expenses may be lower than other roofing forms.
  • The rubber is bonded into place during installation. As a result, heat is prohibited ( hot asphalt or torch-applied materials).
  • Rubber has a long lifespan (it can last 50 years or longer).
  • Because it’s in single pieces, there are fewer seams. Thus, there are fewer areas for water to leak beneath the roofing.
  • Repairs are quick, simple, and economical.
  • Minimal upkeep requirements.
  • It’s fire-resistant, insect-resistant, and mold and mildew resistant.
  • It’s an environmentally beneficial option because it is mostly recycled.
  • Extreme temperature swings and harsh weather are less likely to cause crumbling and cracking.
  • Qualifies for all Florida construction codes.

What are the Cons of Rubber Roofing?

  • One of the main disadvantages is the look. The color may fade with time.
  • Requires dry conditions for efficient rubber adhesive placement.
  • It is sensitive and easily pierced by fallen branches or satellite dishes. Therefore, resulting in leaks.
  • A roofing expert must install rubber roofs. Also, the roofing expert should’ve previously worked with rubber and flat roofs. Unfortunately, locating such a roof expert is difficult.

How to Tell if your Rubber Roof Needs to be Replaced

Extensive Pooling of Water

Pooling is the most serious problem with flat roofs. If your roof generates pools of water regularly, you might consider replacing it.

RoofSlope, for example, is a device on the market that you can use to impart a pitch to your roof. That may be a viable alternative for removing roof ponding. But that depends on the extent of your roof damage.

Large Rips and Tears in the Material and/or Seams

Flat roofs can acquire rips and holes in the roofing material over time. This problem is more prone to occur near roofing seams. That’s the point at which two pieces of materials mix.

If the damage is minor, a repair may be sufficient. If the damage is substantial, you may be better off replacing the roof. Other portions of the roof are very certainly nearing a breakdown.

Roofing Material that does not Easily Show Damage

Some roofing materials like membranes are easy to locate holes. However, other roofing materials, such as tar and gravel, are more difficult to install. As a result, even an experienced contractor may only have a 50% success rate in locating and fixing holes.

In addition, if your roof is from a complex material, it is difficult for workers to find leaks. Thus, you might consider replacing it with a new type of roofing. 

Maintaining a Rubber Roof

Regular Inspection

If possible, inspect your sloping rubber roof from the ground regularly. Use a ladder if you can’t see the top of your low-sloped or flat roof.

Then, using it, you’ll securely and gently climb onto the roof. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so, always use a professional roofer.

Gentle Cleaning

You should clean your flat rubber roof frequently to eliminate built-up debris. Also, brush leaves and other tiny debris off the roof using a soft broom. After that, use a mild detergent and a moist mop to clean stubborn stains gently.

Gutter Care

Ensuring your gutter system is operating well is vital to maintaining roof systems. Every year, clean the gutters gently and inspect for damage. Then, get a professional to fix your drain if it is faulty, sagging, or leaking.

Professional Maintenance

Contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection. That is if the roof has some damage from

  • A tree branch
  • Heavy debris

Also, do so if you see any amount of damage to your rubber roof.

Maximize Rubber Membrane Roof Life Expectancy with Proper Installation

Roof Deck Preparation

Clean the roof’s surface before installation. In this regard, ensure that it’s clear of dust. And other elements that can impair the membrane’s adhesive. Also, EPDM membranes must adhere to the roof’s surface.

Batten and Trim Installation

Inspect portions of your roof with a gutter to determine where a batten should be. Do so by extending your roof deck towards the gutter. That distributes surplus rainfall to the gutter rather than behind it.

Install Wall Upstand

Prepare the wall portions. That will get flashing and channel moisture from the wall to the EPDM membrane. To ensure that the flashings adhere properly, use angle grinders. Also, you can use mortar chisels to eliminate the excess brick mortar.

Prepare EPDM Layer

Allow the roofing membrane to unfold and settle for 30 minutes. Then, measure the flat roof and determine the number of sections you need. After that, cut the membrane to expedite the installation procedure.

Apply Adhesive

This stage is critical. That’s because the rubber roof’s longevity depends on the materials and the surface.

Place the cut-out EPDM sections on the places they will cover. But that’s before applying glue to guarantee a proper fit. After that, allow about one inch of overlap between the seams. Then, prepare your roof membrane adhesive according to the directions on the box.

Cut EPDM Excesses

Remove any visible surplus material from the walls. You may use the wall flashings as a guide to speed up the process. Make sure to remove any extra glue that has spilled out and dried.

Cost to Install a Rubber Roof

Many believe that flat roof installation is less expensive than pitched roof work. After all, flat rooftops are considerably easier to reach. And moving around on a flat surface is much easier than on a sloped one.

Many roofers, however, would confirm that working on flat roofs is more demanding. That is, compared to working on steep roofs. Although flat roof labor does not require a harness and brace system, it does require more

  • Stooping
  • Bending
  • Lifting

And that’s more than a pitched roof work.

Rubber roofing materials are also more costly than standard composite shingles. But on the other hand, a rubber roof will endure longer. And provide more benefits than asphalt shingles or asphalt roll roofing.

The typical cost of installing or replacing a rubber roof is between $6,000 and $18,000. But with an average cost of roughly $12,000. And as you know, various considerations like materials, labor, and obstacles. Also, roof modifications can impact the price.

Conclusion

If you’re on the marketing looking to replace your existing roof, choose rubber. Why s0? Well, as you’ve seen, they need minimal maintenance. And apart from that, they’re lightweight.

Product options are key for consumers. And that’s why rubber roofing stands out among roofing materials. Also, apart from options, rubber roofs can go past 50 years. And in some cases, a decade.

With these watertight seal roofs, you’re guaranteed longevity and comfort.