Is rubber roofing better than felt?

Rubber roofing like EPDM is considered a far superior product than traditional felt thanks to the wide range of benefits on offer. It's one of the highest quality materials for flat roofs and is incredibly easy to install. The result is a robust, waterproof and durable roof that won't tear, rot or blister.

How long will a rubber roof last?

If installed correctly, you can expect a rubber roof to in excess of up to 50 years. Because an EPDM flat roof is compromised of durable rubber, it can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail or snow and common weather such as rain and strong winds.

Can rubber roofing go over felt?

Is the surface suitable for an EPDM rubber roof? Asphalt and shingles aren't suitable for a rubber membrane to be bonded onto. However, for surfaces such as felt, overboarding and adding an EPDM rubber roof is ideal for adding protection to it and further insulating your roof.

What are the pros and cons of rubber roofing?

Is a rubber roof worth it?

Rubber roofing is one of the best options, especially when it comes time to replace your roof. It's incredibly durable, eco-friendly, and has a long lifespan. Rubber is quickly becoming the new popular choice of roofing so, if you need a new roof, it is certainly worth it to consider.

What are advantages of rubber roofing?

Rubber shingles or rolls are much stronger and less likely to crack during extreme weather conditions than asphalt roofing. They are especially beneficial for flat or low-pitch roofs that traditional shingles have trouble effectively protecting due to the lack of gravitational pull.

What do you put under rubber roofing?

You can install EPDM membrane over an existing roof only if a new layer of 5/8" plywood, 5/8" OSB board or polyisocyanurate board with a fiberglass backing is used as a barrier to protect the EPDM.

What are the disadvantages of a rubber roof?

Do rubber roofs need to be coated?

You don't need to coat a rubber roof. The EPDM membrane is a waterproofing sheet and is the final and top layer. An EPDM rubber roof sheet is incredibly durable and boasts a number of properties that keeps it protected from weather conditions.

How long does a rubber shingle roof last?

When it comes to maintenance, rubber shingles only require a paint job after a decade or so, while asphalt shingles need more regular maintenance as they crack more easily. Asphalt shingles typically last for 20 years, while rubber ones can last for 30 or more.

Should old felt be removed?

Anything the contractor does with the materials after that point is not GAF's responsibility. However, they strongly urge roofers to remove all the old felt and replace it as it is an industry best practice.

Can you lay new roof felt on old?

After removing any timber fascia boards, the first step should be removing any existing felt and inspecting your roof for any issues. These should be fixed before installing any new felt.

Can EPDM be installed on plywood?

EPDM rubber roofing can be installed to a few different surfaces, but it works best when it adheres to timber deckings such as roofing grade plywood or OSB sterling board. Sometimes EPDM can be bonded to lightweight concrete and other surfaces that are non-porous like fibreglass and tissue faced insulation.

Can you walk on rubber roof?

Yes to an extent. EPDM is designed to take LIGHT foot traffic during installation and for occasional cleaning or maintenance. If you require more use than this, i.e. for a balcony then there are additional materials that can be laid over your EPDM for a more durable solution.

How do you maintain a rubber roof?

Which type of flat roof is best?

EPDM Membranes

Quite possibly the best flat roofing membrane, EPDM is a relatively low-cost flat roof material that offers a number of significant advantages. Clean, straightforward installation, incredible strength, a long lifespan, and a smart finish combine to make EPDM membranes a difficult one to beat.

How can I extend the life of my rubber roof?

How often should you coat a rubber roof?

Typically, a built-up roof will need routine maintenance and re-coating every 4-6 years. Ponding areas may need more frequent re-coating. Built-up roofs should be checked at least once a year for developing issues.

Can you recoat a rubber roof?

Extending Roof Life

On top of saving you money, recoating your rubber roof can extend it's life by up to 20 years. This is a much more affordable option than a new roof, and it still provides the long life that a new roof would. 20 more years without ever having to worry about your roof again.

Does a rubber roof smell?

Yes. Like a new set of tires on your automobile, you may notice a rubber smell after installation however this dissipates over time after exposure to the elements.

Are rubber roofs flammable?

Even with a seam, EPDM is virtually waterproof, and if a leak ever does develop, repairs are fast, easy and inexpensive. Not only that, EPDM roofs are fire resistant. They are almost impossible to ignite, and they can actually impede the progress of a fire. An EPDM roof lasts a long time.

When should I replace my EPDM roof?

Age of the Roof

By far, age is the best indicator of a roof that needs to be replaced. Commercial roofing systems generally do not last longer than most residential roofs. Generally, commercial EPDM rubber roofs can last anywhere from 25 to 35 years, depending on the thickness (. 045, .

How much does EPDM rubber roofing cost?

EPDM Roof Installation Cost

For installation, the EPDM roofing cost per square foot will normally range between $3.25 and $14.75. The average price is about $4.50 and $5.50 per square foot. That being said, you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $18,000 for a full roof.

What is the difference between TPO and EPDM roofing?

TPO roofing reflects sunlight, allowing commercial air conditioners to work more efficiently; whereas EPDM has a dark surface, which in summer conditions will absorb heat, forcing cooling systems to work overtime. TPO offers reduced cooling costs and energy savings for facilities located in warmer climates.

How long does EPDM roofing last?

EPDM roof membranes remain stable over time and can have a life expectancy of over 50 years. ** Made from synthetic rubber, EPDM roofing membranes have two primary ingredients, ethylene and propylene, which are derived from oil and natural gas.