What Are the Best Types of Rubber Roofing?

EPDM roofing Atlanta

Flat roofs require a pliable, waterproof cover material that performs well in circumstances where shingles and tiles don’t. Rubber is the most popular flat roof covering option. EPDM, PVC and TPO membranes are the best options in this category for the following reasons:

EPDM membranes

  • According to economical EPDM roofing Atlanta contractors, this membrane provides excellent stability against weathering, sun exposure, acids and caustic solutions
  • Long-lasting flexibility and elasticity
  • Traction resistant
  • Easy to apply, partly because they can be manufactured in large dimensions (up to 15m width and 60m length)
  • No additional mechanical fastening required
  • Unlimited aging resistance – this membrane does not contain plasticizers or antioxidants that would make it susceptible to migration or degradation
  • Chemically inert – the composition of the membrane remains constant because it is vulcanized
  • More environmentally friendly than other waterproofing materials
  • Compatibility with green roofs (root resistance) and photovoltaic systems

PVC membranes

  • Used for over 50 years
  • Strong fire resistance
  • Customized architectural solutions available (colors, profiles and roof logos)
  • Suitable for different climatic conditions
  • Quick installation independent of the weather (PVC membranes can be installed even in low temperatures or when it rains)
  • Vapor permeability
  • Great flexibility

TPO membranes

  • High chemical resistance
  • Suitable for direct application on substrates such as bitumen, EPS insulation, and XPS (polystyrene)
  • No plasticizer (no migration/contamination, or perspiration)
  • Long lifespan
  • Easy maintenance
  • Easy handling and installation (no need for fire sources)
  • Resistance to severe weather conditions
  • Environmentally friendly

 

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Which Types of Rubber Roofing Do Experts Recommend the Most?

Rubber roofing can represent a good alternative for asphalt shingles. Moreover, you can add a protective layer over your already existing roof. There are three main types of rubber roofing systems, including EPDM, PVC, TPO or rubber shingles.

The total costs for rubber roofing may depend on several factors, including the thickness of the rubber, if it is fully adhered or mechanically fastened, or in case ballast is also used. Top rubber roofing Atlanta specialists confirm that the costs are also influenced by the necessity to remove the already existing roof layers and if decking or insulating are required during the installation of your rubber roofing system.

EPDM, namely ethylene propylene diene terpolymer is a synthetic rubber material which is preferred by many homeowners due to the fact that it can be easily installed by using just one sheet, as opposed to other systems which require the installation of several different layers.

TPO is highly recommended in hot climates, because it can reduce energy costs. As compared to EPDM though, TPO requires more time and skills, and therefore the labor costs also tend to be higher than in the case of EPDM. But TPO is available in different colors. PVC is another good example of rubber roofing system which can be found in various colors.

How Resilient Is a TPO Roof?

TPO roofing Atlanta

There is a lot of talk among experts about the resilience and reliability of a TPO roof. While it can be compared with other types of rubber roofing membranes such as EPDM roofing, TPO is considered one of the best type of roof because it’s basically a single ply membrane that’s easy to install and has an excellent track record against puncture damage caused by hail, fallen tree branches and just about anything else.

Although a TPO roof won’t stop a meteorite from hitting your building, it’s still very resilient compared to other types of flat roofing systems. Even metal roofing can have some vulnerabilities that single ply TPO roofing doesn’t have – for instance, the fact that it’s laid down in sections or panels, and the seams can be quite vulnerable to water damage. In contrast, TPO has hot air-weldable seams. Combined with the added resilience of the rubber membrane, this makes it one of the most durable flat roofs around.

TPO roofing has been around for decades, and the composition and method of adherence has evolved over time. Today you have various options such as having it chemically adhered, ballasted or fastened to the interior structure, each of which gives specific benefits. Find out more about them by contacting your friendly local TPO roofing Atlanta contractors and inquiring about which fastening solution would be best in your case.

Rubber Roofing: A Flexible and Durable Option for Your Commercial Building

Atlanta commercial roofing contractors

Roofing systems with synthetic rubber membranes are designed for flat roofs of civil, commercial and industrial buildings. They are also suitable for extensive green roofing systems and photovoltaic systems. These waterproofing systems consist of synthetic rubber membranes and a wide range of accessories that fit all types of flat roofs and environments, offering unmatched performance in terms of durability and resistance in various conditions.

The technology used to ensure a professional waterproofing also depends on the degree of qualification of the roofer or waterproofing specialist.

Knowledgeable Atlanta commercial roofing contractors confirm that a complete waterproofing system with synthetic rubber membrane is a very efficient solution for your commercial building and there are major advantages of using it: the number of seams is minimum, and so are the risks of water infiltration. Less maintenance is necessary to be performed on the roof, which makes such a roofing project quick and easy for professional roofers.

Synthetic rubber membranes have excellent properties and are suitable for exposure to UV rays and ozone, without the risk of getting old prematurely. They can be glued or mechanically fixed onto the surface of the roof, without the need for additional roof protection. Synthetic rubber is very elastic, very resistant to wear, resistant to ice and low temperatures up to -45°C.