Most people imagine shingles or metal sheets when they are told to think about roofs. But do you know there is another option available now that is stronger and more flexible? We are talking about rubber roofing. This type of roofing is becoming very popular for several reasons. It is the best at keeping water out. This blog by Aztec Force Roofing, LLC, is put together to help you understand if a rubber roof is the right fit and install it the right way.
Why Rubber Roofing Should Be Installed Correctly
There is no doubt that rubber roofing is durable, but problems can happen if it’s not installed properly. Poor installation can lead to trapped air or water leaks. Imagine putting a sticker on uneven paper. That’s right, it won’t stick smoothly. Roofing works the same way. Rubber roofing has to lie flat. Otherwise, water can sneak in underneath. Slowly, this can cause damage to the roof deck and even inside the building. That is why professionals insist on knowing how it works.
What Is Rubber Roofing?
Rubber roofing is made from stuff called EPDM. The scientific full form is ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. We know that it sounds super technical, but it is basically a strong rubber sheet.
Rubber roofing characteristics
It is built to handle nature and harsh temperature changes. This roofing is used on flat or slightly sloped roofs. It comes in large sheets. Large sheets mean fewer seams. Fewer seams mean fewer chances for leaks. It’s a win-win in our books.
Let’s talk about the biggest benefits of rubber roofing
- Long lifespan (20 to 30 years)
- Strong resistance to weather
- Low maintenance
- Flexible material that moves with temperature changes
Where Rubber Roofing Works Best
As we said, rubber roofing works best on flat or low-slope roofs. The reason is that water doesn’t run off flat roofs as quickly. This roofing creates a waterproof barrier that helps keep water out.
Here are the places you will be seeing rubber roofs a lot
| Commercial buildings | Garages |
| Porches | Modern-style homes |
The EPDM Roofing Installation Process
Installing a roof like this takes patience and a very steady hand.
Here is how the team at Aztec Force Roofing, LLC, gets the job done:
1. Preparing the Surface
Rubber roofing needs a flat base to stick correctly. It is not an exaggeration when we say the roof must be “broom clean.” First, the old roofing material is removed. Then, bumps and damages are taken care of. Rubber sticking properly is important, or it might look bumpy.
2. Laying Down the Insulation
Next, we lay down insulation boards that help balance your house’s temperature. These boards, along with the roof decking, provide a nice “floor” for the rubber to sit on.
3. The Big Roll-Out
The rubber roofing is bought up in a massive roll! We spread it out over the roof and let it “relax” for about half an hour. It might sound funny, but the rubber needs to sit in the sun to get all the wrinkles out.
4. Applying the Adhesive
Now it is time to play with the glue a little! We fold back half of the rubber and apply a very strong adhesive. Then, we roll the rubber back over the glue, using a heavy roller to push out any tiny air bubbles. This makes sure it is stuck tight to the house!
5. Edges Sealing
The corners and edges are the most important parts. Our professionals use special waterproof tape and sealants to make sure the wind can’t get under the edges. Don’t worry, every inch is double-checked to make sure it is airtight.
Maintaining Rubber Roofing Over Time
One great thing about rubber roofing is that it’s easy to maintain. It does not crack or split like some other materials. Your building will thank you for this roofing if you combine it with basic care.
A few very simple maintenance tips include:
- Keeping debris off the roof
- Checking seams once or twice a year
- Fixing small issues early
To Sum Up
Rubber roofing is a smart choice for flat and low-slope roofs. It is absolutely flexible and long-lasting only when installed correctly. It turns a leaky roof into a solid, waterproof shield. Yes, the process takes skills, but the results are always worth it. So, trust the experts at Aztec Force Roofing, LLC if you are thinking about roofing. We will help you install it the right way so your roof stays strong for years to come.
FAQ
Is rubber roofing waterproof?
EPDM is 100% waterproof and highly resistant to UV and ozone. It is the gold standard for flat roofs where water might sit for extended periods.
What temperature can you lay a rubber roof at?
Rubber roofs should be laid in temperatures above 45°F to ensure adhesives bond correctly.
How thick should a rubber roof be?
Residential rubber roofs are 1.14mm thick, while 1.52mm is preferred for roofs with solar panel installations.
How long does it take to install a rubber roof?
A residential flat roof takes 1 to 2 days to complete. More complex projects can take up to 5 days.
What goes underneath a rubber roof?
You will find a system of layers underneath a rubber roof. It will start with a solid roof deck, followed by insulation and sometimes even a protective cover board.