What You Need to Know About EPDM Roofing

Posted on October 23, 2018 by Brian McCallister

EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is very popular today when it comes to roofing, and it could be a good solution for your needs. It can work well with many different types of roofs, and you will find several EPDM options available to provide your roof with the added protection it needs. The material has been around since the 1960s, and it has proven to be very effective in a variety of capacities, not just for roofing.

Options With EPDM

The rubber is available in sheets in a range of thicknesses, vulcanized and nonvulcanized membranes, and as a liquid coating that can be applied similar to paint. The roofing material has become very popular with commercial roofs, as many businesses tend to have flat or low-sloped roofs. With so many options available, different types of buildings and buildings of different sizes can make use of the material.

It’s Environmentally Friendly

Those who live in environments where it gets cold in the winter months and who have relatively short or mild summers may want to choose the black coating. This can help to absorb sunlight and will keep the heating bills down in the winter. In addition, those who live in hot environments, such as the southern part of the United States, will find that the white coatings can help to reflect the heat. This keeps the cooling bills down.

Other Benefits of Choosing EPDM

As you start to learn more about EPDM roofing, you will find there are quite a few other benefits it offers. The material has the capacity to resist massive temperature fluctuations. It can expand and contract with the changing temperatures without any breaks or cracks in the material. It can last for up to 50 years when it is installed properly, and it is fire resistant. It is recyclable, and as you will see below, it tends to be easy to install.

EPDM Rubber

One of the other benefits of the material is the fact that it is inexpensive. When you consider some of the other roofing systems out there that do not boast all of the benefits that EPDM offers, it’s amazing to see just how affordable the product can be. Even those who have large roofs can save a substantial amount of money when they choose the material.

Self-Installation or Professional Installation?

When you decide to go forward and get an EPDM roof, you will want to consider whether you will take care of the application on your own or hire a professional. For those who are choosing the large EPDM sheets that need to be applied, it tends to be much easier to have the professionals take care of the entire process. For those who are using a liquid EPDM instead, it might be possible to take care of the application on your own. This will depend on the size of the roof, along with your comfort in a DIY project like this.

Regardless of who installs the roofing system, you will find that it tends to be a relatively fast process. In very little time, you can have the peace of mind you need for your roof, and you will know that it can last for decades to come.

Elastomeric Roof Coatings: What You Should Know about This Roofing Solution

Posted on September 20, 2018 by Brian McCallister

The roof of a building is as crucial as the foundation. In addition, it must be robust enough to withstand years of exposure to UV rays, extreme temperature fluctuations, harsh elements and weather conditions, and more, and it must do so with minimal maintenance. Given this, it only makes sense that roofs degrade over time, and will eventually need repairs. When that happens, elastomeric roof coatings can be used to repair the damage done. What are these coatings, and what should you know about them?

What Are Elastomeric Roof Coatings?

These types of coatings are made from materials with elastic properties – thus, the name. They are flexible and stretchy, capable of being applied to almost any substrate. With that being said, there are several different types on the market. One is a urethane based formulation, while another is acrylic based. However, perhaps the best performing material on the market today is made with EPDM rubber. This is a synthetic rubber formulation that offers excellent UV resistance, is completely immune to dramatic temperature fluctuations, and can be applied in at any temperature, hot or cold.

EPDM Roof

The Advantages of Elastomeric Roof Coatings

You’ll find a number of advantages with these types of coatings. One of those is as mentioned – they can be applied in any temperature, which means repairs can be conducted at any time of year, whether the damage occurs in the heat of summer, or the cold of winter. That helps to limit the potential for additional leak-related damage to the interior of the structure. Another advantage is that these coatings are highly resistant to mold and mildew, making them excellent choices for use in areas where high humidity may make mold/mildew growth problematic.

What Can Elastomeric Roof Coatings Be Used For?

There are numerous potential uses for elastomeric roof coatings, ranging from repairs to resurfacing to replacing an existing roof. We’ll explore these uses below:

Repairs – One of the most interesting and beneficial uses for elastomeric roof coatings is to repair damage done to the roof. Due to their unique adhesion capabilities, these coatings can be used to repair damage to any other type of roofing system, including EPDM rubber, metal, asphalt shingles, and more. However, some surface preparation may be necessary for non-rubberized roof types to ensure that the coating will adhere properly. In most cases, this requires little more than applying a coat of primer before applying the coating.

Resurfacing – Aging roofs, particularly aging rubber roofs, and other flat roofing system types, need to be maintained over time. Resurfacing is one means of doing this. As they age, these roofing systems can become dry and brittle due to exposure to UV rays. By applying a thin coat just 35 mils thick over the top, elastomeric roof coatings can provide years more life out of the roof. It takes very little time to apply these coatings, and it can be done with simple, readily available hand tools, or with a sprayer.

Replacement – More and more, old roofs are being removed and replaced with elastomeric roof coatings. EPDM rubber roofs offer numerous benefits over most traditional roofing systems, including asphalt shingle, bitumen, tar and gravel, sheet metal, and more. The material is highly resistant to damage, there are no seams to leak, and a rubber roof can last 50 years or more with the right installation and a little bit of TLC over its lifetime.

In the end, elastomeric roof coatings are versatile solutions to roofing challenges large and small. Whether you need to repair, refresh, or replace your roof, using such a coating is a smart decision.

Is EPDM Roofing the Right Choice for Your Business?

Posted on August 20, 2018 by Brian McCallister

When it comes to your business, you need to make smart, informed decisions that maximize the return on your investment while protecting your bottom line. That applies to everything from the people you hire to the construction materials used to build the brick-and-mortar location that houses your company. When it comes to your business’ roof, you have a number of options. EDPM roofing is one of those, but is it the right choice for you?

The Lifespan You Need

Perhaps the single most important reason that you should consider EPDM roofing for your business is that it delivers an immense lifespan for less than you would spend on most other types of roofing. Where bitumen, and tar and gravel systems might last 10 years, and asphalt shingles may begin to fail around 25 years of age, a rubber roof can last 50 years or even longer when it is properly installed and maintained over time. That offers a significant return on your initial investment and protects your profitability.

Cost-Effective

EPDM roofing is very cost-effective. It costs less per square foot than most other roofing options on the market, and yet lasts longer than most other materials, too. And, while some maintenance is necessary, it’s low cost and not particularly involved. Over the lifetime of your roof, it’s possible that EPDM will save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Excellent Temperature Performance

The roof of your business experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations on a day to day basis, as well as season to season. This cycle of heating and cooling will damage, and even destroy most roofing materials over time. Not so with EPDM. With that being said, it is not completely impervious to the elements. Long-term exposure to the sun will eventually dry it out and it will start to become brittle, but regular maintenance will prevent this from being an issue.

Reduced Need for Maintenance

As mentioned, maintenance of an EPDM roof will be necessary, but it is not particularly involved. This material is highly resistant to most threats that would damage or destroy traditional roofing materials. It resists punctures, tearing, abrasions, and temperature fluctuations very well. An annual inspection is needed to make sure there is no damage that must be repaired, and it may be necessary to recoat areas that are damaged over time, but this costs just pennies on the dollar when compared to the maintenance of a regular commercial roof.

It’s a Green Solution

Finally, an EPDM roof is a green roof – not in the sense that it must be used to grow plants (although it is frequently used under rooftop gardens and other green areas), but in the sense that it includes a significant percentage of recycled materials. This prevents additional landfill waste and related pollution.

EPDM also has no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are known to cause health problems in many people. It’s also an ideal solution for underlayment beneath solar panels, ensuring a good, tight fit and no leaks. All of those benefits help your business operate greener, and save money, but they can also be important points for proving corporate responsibility to your clients or customers.

In the end, EPDM roofing is an excellent solution for virtually all businesses. Whether you have a flat roof or a pitched roof, there is an EPDM thickness that’s perfect for your needs. It offers reduced costs in range of ways, from installation time to maintenance costs, is greener than many other roofing options, and will stand the test of time for 50 years or even longer.

The Evolution and Benefits of EPDM Roofing

Posted on May 9, 2018 by Brian McCallister

EPDM roofing is not new. In fact, it has been around since the 1960s. Over the years, it has evolved and improved in many ways. The seams have become improved to ensure they remain strong. They have improved resistance to puncturing, improvements to the flashing details, and overall improvement to their durability. One of the biggest improvements to this type of roofing was the creation of Liquid Rubber. Rather than being applied in sheets, this type of roofing material is applied in liquid forms, and it will then cure.

Why Is Liquid EPDM Roofing a Good Option?

You need to keep your roof in great shape, and you need to make sure it is protected from leaks. If there were a leak in your building, it could cause damage to not only the structure of the roof and the building, but also to items that you have stored there. In a business, a leak could destroy some or all of your inventory if you are not careful. Even if you have plenty of insurance, this is not something that you want your business to have to endure.

The EPDM roofing can provide your building with the added protection that it needs to deal with rain, and even water that ponds. The coating tends to be easy to apply, and when you use the liquid version, you can even do it all on your own. This is much easier than trying to install all of the membranes that would typically be needed. It goes on easy, much like paint, and it will cure quickly, providing you with the protection and peace of mind you need.

The liquid EPDM roof tends to be a very cost-effective solution, as well. When you apply the roof coating on your own rather than hiring someone to do it for you, the cost is even less. However, these are not the only benefits that the roofing can provide.

EPDM Roofing Is Durable and Environmentally Friendly

One of the other nice benefits of this type of roofing is the fact that it is so environmentally friendly. It is extremely durable, and when the roof is well-maintained, it can last for decades without any trouble. This means you will not have to keep replacing tiles, shingles, or pieces of asphalt. With a single coat and some touch ups occasionally, along with other roof maintenance, it is going to last for quite a while. This is one of the aspects that helps to make this an environmentally friendly option for you.

In addition, you will find that there are other ways that the EPDM roofing can be environmentally friendly and even help you to save on your energy costs. It really is a fantastic choice.

The liquid roofing material is available in two colors. You can choose white if you live in an area where it is often hot. The white of the roof will reflect the sun and keep the building cooler, which is going to reduce the costs of cooling the building. Those who are in colder climates can use the black roofing product, which can absorb heat and keep the building warmer, reducing the cost of heating.

If you are considering any type of improved roofing for your building, you will want to consider all of the benefits that you can receive with EPDM roofing. It is a quality option that can provide you with a great roof that can stand up to the rain and other types of damage that might cause issues for you.

Why Choose Liquid Rubber Coatings for Your Roof

Posted on March 19, 2018 by Brian McCallister

Decades of experience in roofing materials has shown that liquid rubber coatings are an ideal choice for flat buildings, or buildings with very low-pitched roofs. But do you know why? Liquid rubber like EPDM is a great way to add protection and weatherproofing to any roof covering, but the benefits extend far beyond weather proofing. The advantages of this material include:

Flexibility: As temperature changes it causes buildings to contract and expand, roof materials can crack over time. But by providing a flexible surface that contracts and expands without cracking, liquid rubber coating protects your roof from this problem.
Weather, chemical, and impact resistance: This type of coating is designed to withstand the most common environmental factors that cause damage in roof materials. UV rays, water, hail, and pollution are all things that a rubber coating can protect your roof from.
Non-slip surface: If you have rooftop work that needs doing, such as duct repair, a liquid rubber coating provides grip to the surface to reduce injuries and accidents.
Insulation: Adding any sort of layers to your roof is just more insulation, which keeps out cold air and hot air. That means that you can lower your heating and cooling bills. This coating also helps reduce cooling bills in the hot months because it reflects UV rays away from the building.
Sound Proofing: If the roof of your building is used for events, or you frequently have work going on on the roof, you can add a layer of sound proofing to keep your upper floor rooms a bit quieter.
Non-conducive: Rubber coatings are non-conducive, which means that they do not conduct electricity. That means you are safe from electrical storms and you can better prevent work accidents.
Fire proof: Rubber coatings are fire resistant, and if they do catch fire, they burn incredibly slowly. This gives you more time to protect your building and everything inside should there be a building fire.
Non-permeable: Anything that lands on your roof, from water to dirt to oil, and any other element that may end up on the roof, will be prevented from seeping through to the roof itself. This protects your building and stops unsightly stains.

Easy and Affordable Liquid Rubber Coating

Beyond the many benefits listed above, liquid rubber coatings are often one of the most affordable options for protecting the roof of a large commercial or residential building. This covering is easy to apply, which means the labor costs are also low, and because this type of coating requires very little maintenance, you won’t have to worry about spending more money in the future. This coating simply requires an installer to spray the material onto the roof, and then leave it to dry. That’s it!

That means that you can get your roof protected very quickly, knocking a big to-do off your list, and without blowing your budget or sacrificing quality. There is no reason to forgo a liquid rubber coating for any roof you want to protect.

How to Choose Between EPDM Rubber Coatings

Posted on January 16, 2018 by Brian McCallister

You’ve heard about rubber roof coatings and are interested in obtaining the benefits offered for your business. However, one look at the industry shows you that there are lots of different brands out there. How do you choose between EPDM rubber coatings for your company’s roof? What are the most important elements to consider, and how do the various options out there stack up?

When Is It Waterproof?

Perhaps one of the most important considerations when comparing EPDM rubber coatings is to determine when the coating is waterproof. Many types of rubber roofing on the market need time to dry before they are waterproof or even water resistant. That means if it were to rain while you were in the middle of applying them, they would be compromised, and you’d need to remove the damaged coating and reapply. With Liquid Rubber, that’s not the case. It’s waterproof from the minute you apply it.

What Substrates Does It Work With?

You need a material on which to apply EPDM rubber coatings. This is called a substrate. The problem is that some coatings will only adhere to certain types of materials. If your roofing substrate is something else, you’re out of luck. The good news is that Liquid Rubber can bond with virtually any substrate you might have, ensuring the smoothest possible process and saving you time and hassle.

What about the Lifespan?

How long is the lifespan of the various EPDM rubber coatings you’re considering? How soon will you need to reapply another coating? Most products on the market have a relatively short lifespan, but Liquid Rubber can last between 15 and 17 years with just a single coating. That applies to seams, as well as all other parts of your roof. You can increase the durability by increasing the number of coatings, as well, which brings us to another consideration – mil rate, or thickness.

How Thick Can You Go?

The thicker EPDM rubber coatings are, the more durable they will be and the more impact resistant they are. However, most products are limited in terms of mil rate. Liquid Roof can be applied up to six times thicker than competing products, and can be applied up to 20 mil in thickness.

Ability to Withstand Expansion and Contraction

How well do the EPDM rubber coatings you’re considering handle temperature related expansion and contraction? When the mercury soars, the material will need to expand. When it gets cold, it will contract. That can create significant stress and deterioration with some products. However, Liquid Rubber can handle expansion and contraction better than any other product. In fact, it can handle temperature ranges from -40 to 300 degrees F.

If you are considering EPDM rubber coatings for your business, then Liquid Rubber definitely deserves a spot at the top of your list of options. Durable, affordable and capable of handling a tremendous range of temperature fluctuations, this rubber roof coating delivers the peace of mind and performance you need.

What Are the Benefits Offered by EPDM Roofing?

Posted on December 19, 2017 by Brian McCallister

You have no shortage of roofing options today. Conventional asphalt shingles are the most common, but you might also choose sheet metal, natural stone, or any number of other choices. However, EPDM roofing might be the better choice for your home. Why is that? What benefits does EPDM roofing offer over other types on the market?

1. Long Lasting

One of the most important reasons to choose EPDM roofing is that it offers a very long lifespan. Most applications last a minimum of 17 years, but a little TLC can ensure that your roof will last for much, much longer. And there’s very little maintenance required during that time. Regular cleaning is really all that you’ll need to do.

2. Impact Resistant

Most types of roofing are subject to impact damage. Natural stone like slate can crack and chip when a limb or other debris impacts it. Metal can be easily dented. Asphalt shingles are easily punctured. EPDM roofing is impact resistant, giving your home more defense against debris from storms, falling limbs and other threats. Even if something somehow manages to puncture the coating, repairing the damage is as simple as applying another layer of liquid EPDM to the area, which can be accomplished in mere minutes.

3. Waterproof

Most forms of roofing are waterproof, but only to an extent. A puncture in a shingle generally means a water leak into the substructure of the roof. A leak along the edge of slate shingles means water penetration into your home. A damaged seam or incorrectly installed/sealed flashing on metal roofing means water entering your home. EPDM roofing is completely waterproof, though. What’s more, it is waterproof from the minute it is applied to the roof, providing you with protection against moisture instantly.

4. No Seams

Many types of roofing have seams – anytime you must join two pieces of material, there is a seam involved. The problem is that seams tend to leak over time. They’re the weakest point in your roofing system. With EPDM roofing, you don’t have to worry about seams. This liquid roofing material is rolled or sprayed on, and is completely seamless. That means less worry about degradation, no need to check your seams annually for damage and more peace of mind about the quality and durability of your roof in general.

5. Temperature Stable

EPDM roofing is capable of handling temperatures that range from 40 degrees below 0 to 300 degrees F. That means you never need to worry that your roof will be damaged by extreme temperatures.

EPDM roofing offers a number of significant benefits. It is cost effective, simple to apply, and long lasting. Its durability is second to none in the industry, and the fact that it is impact resistant makes it an ideal solution for residential roofing in areas prone to tornadoes, hurricanes and other strong storms where wind-blown debris might damage the roof of a home. It is also perfectly suited for commercial roofs, and can be used to prevent damage from ponding water on flat roofs.

5 Reasons You Should Consider Elastomeric Roof Coatings for Your Business

Posted on November 21, 2017 by Brian McCallister

When it comes to roofing for commercial operations, there are quite a few options on the market. One of the most common is concrete, although it must be sealed against moisture. Others include sheet metal and asphalt shingles. However, elastomeric roof coatings could be the most beneficial choice. What are the benefits offered, and why should you consider this type of roofing for your business?

Alleviate Damage from Ponding

If your business has a flat roof, then ponding water will be a concern. Simply put, there is no way to prevent water from ponding on a flat roof, at least to some extent. The issue is that as water stands, it slowly seeps into the roofing material below it, and it causes damage to the underlying substructure of the roof. With elastomeric roof coatings, ponding water is not a threat. This material is completely waterproof, ensuring that no matter how long water might stand on your roof, it will not penetrate to the substructure.

Easily Applied

With most roofing materials, you must pay to have it installed by a professional team. With elastomeric roof coatings, that is not the case. In fact, you can save yourself a great deal of money by applying this coating on your own. Of course, you can certainly choose professional installation, but there is really no need for it. These coatings can be applied very easily using just a roller and paint brush. However, if your roof is more than 5,000 square feet, it’s recommended that you use a sprayer to speed up the job.

Waterproof Instantly

Unlike many other types of roofing, particularly rubber roofing compounds, elastomeric roof coatings are waterproof from the instant they are applied. That means if it starts raining while the coating is being applied, it will cause no damage, and there will be no need to reapply EPDM rubber to any area.

Cost Effective

Elastomeric roof coatings are among the most cost-effective solutions available for business owners. A single coating can provide your business with protection from the elements for up to 17 years. What’s more, multiple coatings can be applied to create a thicker layer of protection.

Address Leak-Prone Areas

Businesses must deal with the potential for leaks in many areas where residential roofs do not. For instance, HVAC equipment installed on the roof has the potential to create water leaks. Using elastomeric coatings to protect against water intrusion around air conditioners and the like ensures protection for the entire business. A single coating is more than enough to prevent water from seeping between the mounting points of equipment and the roof.

As you can see, elastomeric roof coatings are highly beneficial for business owners, property owners and others. This material offers significant durability, is easy to apply, and can hold up to years of weathering without any ill effects. If you’re struggling with roof maintenance or water leaks, consider EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing.

Many Are Choosing to Use Elastomeric Roof Coatings

Posted on October 17, 2017 by Brian McCallister

An elastomeric roof coating could be the right choice for anyone who needs to take care of their roof and make sure that it has the proper protection against leaks and other issues. These coatings can provide you with an effective and affordable option for fixing a leaky roof you might have now, as well as to make sure there are no leaks in the future. These types of coatings have a range of benefits that help to make them such a stellar option. Let’s look at some of the reasons many are choosing to work with elastomeric roof coatings.

Great All Year Round

One of the nice things about the product is that it works so well in different temperatures. Whether it is the dead of winter or at the hottest point of summer, the elastomeric roof coatings can expand and contract to provide protection for your roof. You can think of it like a skin for your roof.

Works With Many Types of Materials

Another one of the nice features of elastomeric roof coatings is that they are quite easy to use with many different types of roofs. They work well with wood, singly ply roofing, built up roofing, concrete, metal roofs, and more. As long as the roof is flat, you should not have a problem when it comes to using this type of coating.

Very Durable

In addition to being able to withstand extreme temperature differences, you will find that the elastomeric roof coatings are durable in other ways. They can hold up for many years without needing another coat. In fact, many times they will not need to have any major work done for around 20 years.

Easy to Apply

Another reason people are utilizing elastomeric roof coatings is because they are easy to apply. You could have someone take care of the application for you if you wish, or you could take care of the project on your own. Whether you do it yourself or not will often depend on the size of the roof and the amount of time you need to complete the task.

If you are going to do it on your own, you will first need to clean the roof properly. You need to remove all the debris and dirt from the roof so the coating can adhere properly. Once it is clear, you can mix the coating in its container and then apply it. You can use a spray tool, a roller, and brushes for the application. Those who have extremely larger roofs to cover might want to choose one of the brushes, as it can make the job easier.

It will take just a single coat for the roof, and then you will have the protection you need from leaks, as well as from UV damage. Check the roof once in a while after you have applied the coating, just to be sure that no fallen debris, such as a branch, has caused any damage. The coating tends to be hearty, so this should not be a problem.

Why Use Liquid EPDM Rubber?

Posted on September 18, 2017 by Brian McCallister

EPDM liquid rubber is one of the most used materials for individuals looking to seal the roof of their commercial business or home. In fact, this type of product is making the conventional elastomeric nearly obsolete.

Elastomeric systems often require a primer, a base coat, and then a final coat before they are ready to go. This adds to the weight of the roof and really is not worth it when you consider that a liquid rubber roof lasts nearly four times longer. This is because of the chemical structure of the liquid rubber.

There are a number of reasons to choose liquid EPDM rubber, and a few are noted just below:

Why Liquid EPDM Rubber?

This roof coating system does not require a primer and only requires a single coat of the liquid rubber. This saves time and energy, plus it means you have to buy less of the product.
This product waterproofs as soon as it is applied. Even if you just got it down and have left the roof, if a rain shower comes through, you have nothing to worry about. It will not allow leaks and you will not have to worry about putting on a new coat.
Liquid rubber is traditionally made in the United States and is subject to all rules and regulations, so you can be sure that it is safe to use for anyone.
Through what is called the “curing” process, the rubber can conform to any shape. When it has done so, it is a perfect, seamless surface. You don’t have to worry about seams and inspecting them off and on. After one coat of liquid rubber, your membrane will be complete and may last as many as 15 years without any maintenance.
This type of coating is environmentally safe, which cannot be said for many other roof coatings.
Liquid rubber roofing material is resistant to ultra violet and ozone rays, making it safer to use.
The product is puncture resistant and is virtually odorless once the curing process is complete.
Pooling water is not competition for this type of material as it can withstand standing water year-round. This is something unique to the product.

Do It Yourself Aspect

Another thing that is important to understand when it comes to this product is that it is easy to apply on your own. There’s no need to have an expert come out for installation and very few tools are needed to apply the liquid rubber. There are tutorials online that can walk you through the entire process if you are not sure where to start.

People are continually switching from traditional roofing sealants to liquid rubber because of the many great benefits that they see in it. Not only is it easy to use, it’s affordable when compared to other options. It’s safe, for you and your entire family. It ensures you have no leaks and your home or business stays in pristine condition. There’s really no reason not to try it, so think about giving it a shot the next time your roof springs a leak!