Roof Choices Today and Their Effects Tomorrow

The roofing material choices you make today may have a variety of effects in the future. There is no perfect solution for every home owner to prevent their roofs from roof leaks. There would only be one roofing system if that were the case. Here are some of the factors to consider before making a roofing material selection.

A big consideration is the slope of the roof. While some products can be applied to any roof, regardless of the slope, some are only suitable for flat roofs and others can only be used on pitched roofs commonly seen in homes.

Asphalt shingles are the most common selection for residential homes with a sloped roof. They are available in numerous colors. Some modern shingles include reflective particles that reduce heat buildup and conduction. The goal is to reduce summer cooling costs by reflecting more heat from the sun.

Ceramic tiles, cedar shakes and slate shingles are less common. Ceramic or slate may last longer but they cost more and they are also heavier. The roof design must be strong enough to support the heavier materials and also to support any anticipated load from snow or ice.

The popularity of sheet metal roofs waxes and wanes as the years go by. Some houses are nicely suited for sheet metal roofs that are reminiscent of the tin roofs of old. The new materials are more rust-resistant and long lasting. The appearance is one of the selling points.

For flat roofs, a membrane roofing system is most commonly used. There are about a half dozen different types of membrane roofing systems. The name refers to the different layers used in the system that rely on some type of membrane to prevent water leakage and other types of roof leaks.

The membrane roofing systems on today’s market include modified bitumen and plastic polymers. Liquid EPDM rubber roofing systems are becoming more popular for commercial buildings. These systems are among the most water-resistant and energy efficient. But they are still more expensive than some of the other solutions.

The cost of materials and installation are factors to consider. While it is true that a cheap system may be lower in quality, you have to look at how long you can expect the roof to last. It might not make sense to install an expensive system on an existing roof that will need to be replaced in just a few years.

On the other hand, making the most energy efficient choice could start paying you back in the very near future. The roofing system is arguably the most important part of any building. If the roof fails, the rest of the building will be damaged too.

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Liquid EPDM Rubber Coatings are aftermarket roof sealants

A number of aftermarket roof sealants are available, including urethanes, acrylics and liquid rubber. Liquid EPDM rubber is by far the most durable of the sealants available and has the widest range of applications.

It is more water resistant than other rubbers, including neoprene. It is more resistant to swelling and has a wider range of acceptable temperatures. It can be applied directly to practically any roofing material other than asphalt and can even be used on wood that has been primed.

Liquids have an obvious advantage over sheets. Sheets have seams. Seam sealers eventually deteriorate and water gets through the seams and under the sheeting.

Liquid EPDM can be used on top of neoprene, although some pre-treatment of the surface is required. Just knowing that the liquid rubber is recommended for use on top of the other type of rubber should be an indication that the material is more durable.

Liquid EPDM can also be used on top of polyurethane after a light sanding. It is somewhat surprising that urethanes are still used as aftermarket roof sealants. It is known that the structure is damaged by UV light and that discoloration occurs relatively quickly. Anyone who has made the mistake of using urethane as a roof sealant should consider applying liquid EPDM to truly protect the roof.

The liquids can also be used to seal existing leaks. They are self-adhering and fill up tiny fractures that let water through. It is a good idea to use a thick coat and cover the entire surface instead of attempting to only cover the leaky area.

When covering the entire roof, the liquid rubber reduces heat buildup. Not only does the roof stay cooler, but the interior of the building or the vehicle will also stay cooler. This benefit may reduce heating costs and keep the occupants more comfortable.

Liquid EPDM has become the most popular choice for RV roofs, because of all the above-mentioned advantages. It extends the lifespan of the roof and requires less maintenance. It lasts up to three times longer than any other aftermarket RV roof sealant and also reduces noise from rain.

As far as price goes, most sealants are similar in price. Depending on where you buy, EPDM may be a little more expensive, but because primers and additional coats are not usually necessary, and because it lasts so much longer, owners who choose this aftermarket roof sealant save money in the long run.

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN USING LIQUID RUBBER

1)       Catalyst must be added prior to use.  Scrape sides of container with a Liquid rubber spatula to ensure catalyst distribution.

2)       Xylene or Mineral Spirits Solvents may be added to adjust viscosity or for clean-up. 

3)       Easiest way to spread the rubber on a flat surface is to broadcast material with a rubber squeegee then roll using a short nap roller.  Product is self leveling.  A flat spatula can be used for small areas. 

4)       Product has a long pot life after catalyst has been added; 4-6 hrs. depending on temperature. 

5)       Only temperature affects the rate of cure.  Relative humidity has no influence. 

6)       Product is hydrophobic (sheds water) so substrate to be coated must be dry initially.  The uncured rubber can get wet or even have ponding water, with only a cosmetic effect after application, and will still cure.

7)       The rubber will penetrate into porous substrates such as wood and poured concrete.  A primer/sealer should precede application of rubber. 

8)       The chemical reaction of the catalyzed rubber can be arrested by freezing the material.  This can keep material usable for weeks or months.  To use again simply allow it to reach room temperature and apply.

Liquid EPDM vs. Other Roofing Materials

When compared to other roofing materials and sealants, Liquid EPDM may seem more expensive. As it turns out, the other materials will cost you more in the long run. Here’s why.

Liquid EPDM is identical to the older sheet EPDM rubber that was often used in roofing to waterproof and protect the underlying timber or other materials. The primary disadvantage of the sheet type is that there are seams. Even when seam-sealers are used, rain and temperature eventually cracks the seams. If the damage is not caught early enough, leaks are the outcome.

Liquid EPDM rubber is seamless. It is self-adhering. So, there is no need to use adhesives or fasteners, which are a source of corrosion and leakage. The liquid can also be used on any shape or angle.

Other liquids and sheets are now available, but none last as long as EPDM. It is resistant to tearing, ozone, abrasion and temperature changes.

The other liquid sealants require the use of primers, multiple coats and top coatings. EPDM is a one-coat system that does not require primers. That’s the first way that your overall cost is reduced. You don’t have to buy the primers and you don’t have to use multiple coats.

Another way that you save money has to do with repair and replacement. The initial EPDM coating can be applied three times as thick as neoprene and other elastomers. In side by side comparisons, the EPDM last three times as long as those other materials. It is also superior to acrylics and urethanes.

When compared to neoprene, which is an older elastomer that is less expensive, EPDM has a wider temperature range. It can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees and as high as 300 degrees without cracking, swelling or bubbling. Neoprene’s temperature range is from 60 degrees to 250.

The biggest “temperature” disadvantage of neoprene is that it cracks during cold winters, especially if ice builds up on the roof. This is not usually a problem with EPDM, because the temperature inside of the building will usually keep the roof temperature at or above freezing. It’s still a good idea to remove ice build-up, just to be on the safe side.

Neoprene is also less resistant to water damage and swelling. When you have to replace or repair something frequently, you can see how the costs add up. You’ll find that liquid EPDM really pays for itself as the years go by. With a 25 year history of success, you simply can’t go wrong with liquid EPDM.

Proper care of an RV EPDM roof and maintenance of RV roof

How to Maintain Your RV EPDM Roof

With proper care and maintenance, your RV EPDM roof can last for 20 years or more. That’s pretty much equivalent to the life of the vehicle itself. One of the benefits of EPDM roofing materials is that the care and maintenance required is minimal. Regular cleaning is the first step.

 Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the roof at least four times per year. The cleaner used should be one that is specifically designed for EPDM roofing and is free of petroleum distillates.

 Products containing petroleum distillates, whether they are designed for cleaning or protecting, will cause the rubber to swell and loosen. There are many chemicals that fall under the category. The easiest way to tell for sure that the cleaner you are using does not contain any of the chemicals is to look for one that states on the label “free of petroleum distillates, safe for use on EPDM materials.”

Cleaning is a relatively simple matter, but you should keep your safety in mind. If you are going to be getting up on the roof, you should be on your hands and knees to reduce your risk of falling.

 The first step is to rinse the roof thoroughly with plain water at a relatively high pressure. Any branches or sharp objects should be removed by hand, if possible. While EPDM is tear resistant, sharp objects can cause scratches when they are pushed along the surface. Eventually the scratches can become tears. Once all debris has been rinsed away, you will need to take a medium bristle brush, a bucket of safe cleanser diluted with water and get up on the roof. You need only scrub in areas where you see stains or dirt. Keep your hose with you so that you can rinse while you are cleaning. Start in the corner farthest away from your exit point and work backwards to minimize the amount of time you spend on the wet surface.

After the roof is cleaned, you can use an EPDM protectant if you like. The protectant should be specifically designed for EPDM roofing, not for other types of materials. Some EPDM manufacturers also sell special protectants. While using the protectant is not essential, it may extend the life of the roof and reduce your need to restore or repair the roofing material. Finally, proper care of your EPDM roof includes parking it in an area where the roof is protected as much as possible. Don’t park around fruit trees. The citric acid can deteriorate the material in between cleanings.

Identifying roof leaks on your roof

Not every one know how to identify the leaks on their home roof or on their RV roof and due to this misunderstanding they pay $$$$ to the contractors.

During new construction, caulks and sealants are used to waterproof around flashings, vents and other protrusions throughout your roof during roof repair. Our EPDM ROOF COATINGS acts as a shield to protect existing caulks and sealants and extend their life substantially. Old concrete and metal roof can be easily waterproof and repair with epdm roof coatings. The useful life of metal roofs, whether galvanized steel, or aluminum can also be extended.

Liquid Rubber and elastomeric coatings are the best and also the most cost effective product for solving repair and leak problem, Our products does not chalk or shrink. Our one-coat applications saves your time and money sealing and protecting for many years to come. As a property owner, whether you have residential property or commercial property, you would like to find the best roof repair solution. You do not have to keep calling back the contractor every time the roof leaks. You need to get your roof repairing problem done from the roofing experts.If your commercial roof or residential roof is encountered with the roof leaks then the best option is to repair roof with EPDM coatings. EPDM Coatings offers different range of products for roof repair solutions.

Roof is the most important element of the home construction

When we get tired of the whole day’s activities our most imperative want becomes to go home and get relax. As the thought of going home comes to our mind a smile comes to our faces unconsciously because of a peaceful place for tranquil. Home is the place which gives soothing and comfortable thought to everyone. It serves as a shelter from all the outside and environmental harms. Roof is the most important element of the home construction and its most intricate thing to repair and re-roof. Before deciding on roof repair or repair decision, all of us must be aware of the expected roof lives.

All roofs are made from different materials and each type of roof has a different lifespan. The best way to determine how long you can expect your roof to last is to check with the manufacturer’s warranty. However, you should also realize that with a preventive roof maintenance plan that utilizes seasonal inspections, you could greatly enhance the lifespan of your roof. When considering roofing materials, always talk with your roofer about the steps that you should take to maintain its condition as well as anything that you should do to ensure that you don’t void the warranty. By taking the time to choose the best roofing materials for your house’s design, structure and geographical location, you will have a better chance of enjoying new roof for many years.

Why Choose the Liquids?

Ease of application is one reason. The foil is more difficult to apply correctly. You could easily end up with bumps, overlaps and uneven spots that contribute to water pooling. Water can seep under the rubber sheets and cause the roofs to leak. So, while the rolls were the best choice for waterproofing at one time, there are better choices today.

 The liquids have more uses. They can be used on RV roof repair and other vehicles. They can be applied to a wide range of roofing materials including metal, fiberglass and wood. Through the use of an undercoating, the liquids can be applied to built-up and asphalt-based coatings.