Pros and Cons of a Liquid Rubber Roof

Posted on March 19, 2018 by rubberroofing

If you’ve never heard of liquid rubber roof coating, you aren’t alone. Primarily used for commercial buildings, it’s only been recently that homeowners and small business owners have realized how beneficial this product can be for their properties as well. If you are considering a protective coating for your roof, here are some things to consider about this option:

Pros of a Liquid Rubber Roof

There are many reasons that a liquid rubber coating can be a huge benefit for buildings of all shapes and sizes.

Liquid rubber is flexible, waterproof, and UV-resistant, so it resists damage from the three most common elements that damage roof materials. Temperature fluctuations, which usually cause roof materials to crack, are not a problem thanks to rubber’s ability to expand and contract without breaking.
Rubber is very long lasting. Because this type of covering is usually laid out in one piece, it has very few seams that can be damaged. These roof materials are designed to last for decades.
Repairing a liquid rubber roof is inexpensive and easy. Maintenance is almost nonexistent over the years; at most, you may have to touch up any aesthetic paint that was applied once every decade or so.
There are many options to choose from that can help you determine what kind of rubber roof covering you need. From a thin coating of 45mm liquid rubber, to a coating of up to 90mm, the range is extensive, so that you can get the right coverage based on your building’s structure and your needs.
Your interior utility bills will be lowered thanks to this material’s natural UV resistance. Sun is reflected away from the roof, which makes the interior of the building cooler.
Rubber is a very green choice because it takes less energy to produce a rubber material than it does to produce other common roofing materials. Rubber is also 100% recyclable, so decades into the future when your roof needs a replacement coating, the old coating won’t be tossed into a landfill.
Liquid rubber roof coatings are fire resistant, which not only keeps you safer, but can also lead to a reduction in homeowner’s insurance in many cases.

Cons of a Liquid Rubber Roof

The biggest drawback to this type of roof covering is that it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing choice. However, it can be painted with acrylic paint, which not only covers up the black or white liquid rubber with a more attractive color, but also makes the coating last longer. Additionally, some manufacturers have even started to make this coating in strips that resemble shingles more closely, for homeowners with stricter HOA rules, for example.

The best way to ensure that you get a great covering for your roof if you choose liquid rubber is to choose the right roofer. Be sure that you choose a company with experience installing liquid rubber. As the aesthetics of this material improve every year, it won’t be long before there are virtually no drawbacks at all to this type of roof.

EPDM Rubber Coatings vs. Silicone Coatings

Posted on February 15, 2018 by rubberroofing

When it comes to choosing the right kind of protective coating for your roof, there are many options. EPDM rubber coatings are one of the most popular options, but you may also come across silicone coatings and wonder, what’s the difference? What makes one better than the other? Or are they the same?

As it turns out, these are related products, but they are not the same. They are both a type of rubber that share a few features, but there are unique things about each that make them better suited to different types of buildings. Here’s what you need to know about each:

EPDM Rubber Coatings Overview

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomers, or EPDM, is a synthetic rubber of very high density, that is able to withstand extreme temperature changes. Its flexibility and strength make it ideal for buildings that are exposed to both high heats and extreme cold. Industrial building owners like it for its affordability and easy maintenance. It is also flame retardant, UV resistant, and very easy to install. EPDM is also recyclable, so you don’t have to worry about the coating ending up in a landfill in a few decades when it’s time for a replacement.

Silicone Coatings Overview

Silicone is a flexible rubber that is also very flame retardant and able to withstand high heat. It can actually withstand slightly higher heat than EPDM, which makes it ideal for engineering and automotive locations. However, it is not quite as strong as EPDM, which means that it could be damaged by extreme weather and environmental concerns more than EPDM might be. However, silicone is also recyclable, and offers plenty of UV resistance as well. Silicone is also less effective against rain because it doesn’t have good acid or alkali resistance.

So What’s the Difference?

For most applications, EPDM rubber coating and silicone coating won’t be much different. Both allow you to protect your roof from environmental factors, both protect your roof from fire, and both are highly flexible in the face of temperature changes. However, if environmental protection is your main concern, EPDM coating is the better choice – it offers more strength against rain, and is less likely to tear in hail or other strong weather.

But silicone is ideal for areas where extremely high temperatures are the biggest concern. For companies that need to do welding or repair work on the roof regularly, a silicone coating may be the better option to protect the roof better. Both options are long-lived and durable for decades, and neither require a ton of maintenance. Whichever option you do choose will last for a long time barring significant environmental concerns.

Which Coating Should You Choose?

As you can see, which type of coating you choose will depend on your requirements for your roof. It’s essential that you consider what your roof will be used for when choosing the coating material. Once you determine the utility of the roof, then you can consider the factors like price, strength, and resistant properties of the coating.

Liquid Rubber Coatings – A Roofing Material to Consider

Posted on January 16, 2018 by rubberroofing

When it comes to choosing a roof for your home, you have quite a few choices. Asphalt shingles are affordable, readily available, and can be purchased in any number of colors. Sheet metal is also an option. It’s more expensive than conventional shingles, but lasts longer. It is also available in a number of color options. Then there is natural stone like slate, as well as tile and other options. Finally, there are liquid rubber coatings. Liquid rubber is perhaps the most interesting option to consider. Why, though?

What Are Liquid Rubber Coatings?

First, let’s establish what this roofing option is in the first place. With all types of roofing, you have a subsystem and then a roofing material that overlies that – metal, asphalt shingles, etc. With liquid rubber coatings, a layer of liquid rubber is applied to the substrate on your roof. Note that only synthetic rubber should be used here, as natural rubber will degrade quite quickly. It’s also worth noting that if your roof has a steep pitch, conventional roofing materials are the better option. Liquid rubber coatings are better suited for roofs with a gentle pitch, or for flat roofs.

What Benefits Do Liquid Rubber Coatings Offer?

Now that we’ve explained a bit about what liquid rubber coatings are, what are the benefits offered? Actually, there are several that homeowners should understand. One of those is that Liquid Rubber roofing is waterproof on contact. There is no drying time needed to become waterproof, unlike competing products. That means you’re safe if a sudden storm rolls through right after you start applying the compound to your roof.

Another benefit found only with Liquid Rubber brand roofing compound is that a single coating is all that is needed to create a completely waterproof barrier between your roofing substrate and the environment. That means less time spend applying the compound, less compound used, and more money and time saved.

Many homeowners appreciate the fact that liquid rubber coatings are available in both light and dark colors. A darker coloration can be good for blending in with the overall aesthetic of a neighborhood, but a lighter color can help to reduce cooling costs within the home. White rubber reflects sunlight and thermal energy, meaning that less heat is transferred to the interior of the home, thereby reducing the need to use the air conditioner.

Finally, you’ll appreciate the fact that Liquid Rubber roofing compound can be applied without the need for any professional help. While you can definitely hire a roofer to apply it for you, all you really need is a roller and a paintbrush for most residential roofs. You can also apply this specific brand six times thicker than other brands, allowing you to create a robust barrier between your home and Mother Nature.

From the information above, it should be clear that not only are liquid rubber coatings ideal solutions for your home’s roof, but that Liquid Rubber roofing in particular is an ideal option for homeowners seeking affordability combined with outstanding protection and durability.

Is Liquid Rubber Roof the Right Choice for Your Business?

Posted on December 19, 2017 by rubberroofing

Do you own a business with a flat roof? If so, you know that ponding water is a serious challenge. Over time, it can cause major damage, as well as water leaks into your business. Finding a solution can seem difficult to do – few roofing materials can hold up to the damage incurred by ponding water. There is good news, though. Liquid Rubber roof can help protect your business and breathe new life into your existing roof. Is it right for you?

The Roof Type

While many types of roofing materials can be installed on a range of roof pitches, Liquid Rubber is best suited to flat roofs, and those with very low pitches. However, it can be applied to virtually any substrate, from wood to concrete to metal, and everything in between.

Creates a Smooth, Seamless Surface

Most roofing materials create seams. This is true for everything from metal to asphalt shingles. Even concrete has seams. The challenge here is that all seems have the potential to leak over time. However, because Liquid Rubber is made from synthetic rubber, it ultimately creates a smooth, seamless surface. It bonds with itself perfectly, leaving no seam behind for water to exploit in entering the building. You can say goodbye to seam repair with this roofing solution.

Ideal for a Range of Temperatures

Liquid Rubber roof material is made from the same synthetic rubber as your car’s radiator hoses. That shows that it can hold up very well to immensely high temperatures. However, it can also handle dramatic temperature changes with equanimity. Just think of how a radiator hose might go from below freezing to well over the boiling temperature of water in just a few minutes – Liquid Rubber does the same thing for your roof.

This is important for a number of different reasons. Because it holds up so well to temperature fluctuations, it is stable in winter, spring, summer and fall. It can handle long-term exposure to harsh sunlight, and it will not become brittle or start to crack due to temperature fluctuations.

Ease of Application

One of the best things about Liquid Rubber roof material is that it can be applied simply and easily. In fact, most business owners can handle installation on their own. That means you benefit from reduced costs, and you’re able to save time and hassle. All you need to install it is a paint roller and a paint brush. However, you can also add it to a sprayer if you’d prefer a spray-on application. An airless sprayer is usually considered necessary for roofs spanning more than 5,000 square feet.

So, is Liquid Rubber roof right for your business? In almost all instances, the answer is yes. It offers significant durability and weather resistance, can be installed by you, quickly and easily, and it bonds to virtually any type of substrate you might have. It doesn’t get much simpler than that.

Understanding the Advantages of Liquid Rubber Roofing

Posted on November 20, 2017 by rubberroofing

When it comes to your home, you need to protect it against wear and tear, and you need to make repairs as soon as possible. The single largest area of exposure on your home is the roof. Not only must it contend with constant exposure to temperature fluctuations, but you expect it to deal with intense sunlight, rain, sleet, snow, hail and other threats.

Over time, those can create damage that reduces your roof’s ability to protect you and your family. The good news is that Liquid Rubber roofing can be an ideal solution to your needs. What advantages does this roofing material offer over other options?

The Right Roof

First, understand that Liquid Rubber roofing is not ideal for all residential roofs. Generally, you need a roof with a low pitch (angle), or even a flat roof. Roofs with steeper pitch should make use of sheet metal, slate tiles, or conventional asphalt shingles. With that being said, if your roof has the right pitch, then Liquid Rubber roofing can be quite advantageous.

The Advantages Offered

So, how does liquid rubber roof material stack up against other options on the market? Actually, it holds its own quite well. There are several reasons for this. First, when you apply Liquid Rubber roofing, you create a seamless application. That’s in direct contrast to asphalt shingles, metal roofing and other options. All of these materials are put down in strips or pieces, and then those pieces must be joined. Every joint or seam has the potential to cause leaks down the road.

Another advantage of Liquid Rubber roofing is the quick curing time. With other synthetic rubber roofing options, you might have to wait weeks, even months before the material was fully cured. With Liquid Rubber, that’s not the case. It is fully cured in just days. Moreover, it cures completely at a much lower temperature than other synthetic rubber roofing systems, meaning that it can be installed during the spring, summer or fall. It can even be installed during the winter in areas where wintertime temps are mild.

You’ll find that Liquid Rubber roofing can also be applied to virtually any substrate without having to use a primer. Whether you have a wooden sub-roof, or you’re dealing with concrete or another material entirely, this allows a much faster installation process, and saves you money since you don’t have to purchase primer.

Finally, you’ll find that Liquid Rubber is the only synthetic rubber roofing material on the market that waterproofs immediately. Other products need time to cure and become tacky. The challenge here is that the material is vulnerable until it cures enough to be waterproof. Rain during this time could completely compromise any material installed, washing it away and leading to the need to reapply. With Liquid Rubber, you benefit from immediate waterproofing as soon as the material is applied to the substrate.

As you can see, Liquid Rubber offers quite a few advantages over other roofing materials, and may be the ideal choice for your needs.

Reasons to Repair Leaks with Liquid Rubber

Posted on October 17, 2017 by rubberroofing

Are you dealing with a roof that has taken some damage recently? Can you tell there’s been damage lately because the roof is now leaking? This is common for homeowners, in all honesty. You may not always think about inspecting your roof to see how things are holding up. Instead, you end up being made aware of it when you see leaks sprouting up or other damage becomes apparent.

It’s never fun to find out that you have a leak, but it may not be as dire as you think. Liquid rubber is a great way to solve this problem and you can do it without breaking the bank.

Liquid Rubber is Affordable

As soon as you realize you have a leak, your mind might go to figures, wondering how much it’s going to cost to take care of the issue. The good news for you is that using liquid rubber to repair that roof can be more affordable than you first expect. In fact, it’s probably the most affordable option you have when it comes to a leaky roof.

On top of that, this material is made from recycled materials so it’s pretty environmentally friendly, as well. Between those two things, you may not find an option that fits better than liquid rubber. However, there are other reasons to use this substance.

Do It Yourself

Many types of roofing sealants are a real pain to apply. In fact, most of them require a skilled professional to ensure things are done just right. That is not the case with liquid rubber. It can actually be applied by nearly anyone, saving you from all those pesky labor costs that the other materials bring with them.

In addition to being able to apply the material yourself, it’s also easy to do. It won’t take you endless hours or days to get everything together and done. Nope. In fact, all it really takes is a good cleaning, an application, and you’re pretty much done.

Perfect for any Climate

So, you may be aware that some roofing materials work great in the heat but don’t do so well in the cold or vice versa. There are also materials that don’t do well with lots of rain or snow, which means that while they work for a while, they often sputter out pretty quickly too, leaving you to buy a new material.

You don’t have to worry about this with liquid rubber. It is just as happy in scorching temperature as it is in frigid ones. It has been tested in the most extreme climates and it has no problem adapting. However, curing it works better if the temperature is at 55 or higher. That said, even if it isn’t, it just takes more time.

There are four excellent reasons for applying liquid rubber the next time your roof springs a leak. It’s a great material that provides a whole lot of benefits that other roofing sealants simply do not. Don’t be afraid to give it a try!

How Liquid Rubber Has Changed Roofing

Posted on September 18, 2017 by rubberroofing

What do you think of when you hear the word rubber? You may think of rubber bands, tires on your car, or even your sneakers. However, rubber is good for a whole lot of other things. One of those is as protection for the roof of your home or building. But why is this so important to the roofing industry? We go into the most important reasons below, while providing you a bit more information about this particular material and what it is capable of.

Liquid Rubber

First of all, you should know that the rubber we are talking about is called EPDM rubber, which is short for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. This material is used for many different processes, but it has moved to the roofing world because it can offer so much durability and at a great price. It also helps that the application process ensures that every inch of the roof gets covered, as is needed.

Expansion

You may not be aware of this, but your roof moves. When the temperature changes, it can cause the roof to expand or contract to a small amount. This is part of why EPDM rubber is so innovative. The material will expand or contract with the roof, ensuring coverage continues, no matter how the roof shifts based on temperature. This is not the case with most other coatings that you can invest in.

Only liquid coatings can provide this kind of coverage, as solid rubber and other materials cannot expand. In those cases, the material can crack or become damaged, leaving you with a need to repair or replace it. This leads to a need to spend even more money, which nobody wants to deal with.

Temperature Resistant

Changing temperatures can cause damage to your roof, which is one reason that a protection method is so important. While it may cost some amount to apply a rubber coating, it pales in comparison to the cost of repairing or even replacing part of your roof. That’s why rubber roofing is such an excellent choice for many homeowners.

The good news about liquid rubber is that it is more affordable than traditional methods for protecting your roof from the elements. This is one of the primary reasons that the roofing industry has taken to liquid roofing sealant so quickly and easily. You no longer have to spend copious amounts of money to protect your roof. You can protect it without breaking the bank doing so.

For those who prefer to have a professional install the rubber coating, there’s more good news. A professional can apply this type of material at a cheaper cost than other types of coatings. Part of the reason for this is because there are no long hours or heavy machinery required to install the coating. It is a simple and virtually silent process.

If you’ve been wondering what the fuss is about rubber roofing, this article should explain the basics. For those of you who haven’t added a coating to your home or business roof, you now have the facts to go into it, knowing what you have to gain.

Choosing Liquid Rubber for Roof Repair

Posted on August 10, 2017 by rubberroofing

Do you have a roof in need of repair? Maybe you have already found a leak and you want to nip it in the bud. Perhaps you are worried that there could be leaks in the future, and you want to find a way to head off that possibility before it becomes a problem. You might want to consider getting a coating for the roof. Using Liquid Rubber for roof repair is a fantastic solution.

Of course, you should learn a bit more about the produce and why you should be considering it for your roof. Let’s learn a bit more about Liquid Rubber for roof repair, so you can see why it might be right for you.

What Is the Liquid Rubber?

This is a type of EPDM coating that can be applied to your flat roof. It comes in buckets, and it is like paint once you have mixed it up and it is ready to go. You even apply it to the roof just like paint. You can use rollers and brushes to apply it. However, when this dries and cures, it becomes a rubber barrier that will prevent water from getting through and leaking into your home, workspace, or facility.

How Many Coats Do You Need?

You might be thinking that you would need to add several coats for this to work well and to ensure protection. However, that’s not the case. One of the reasons so many people love to use Liquid Rubber for roof repair and preventative measures is that it will only take a single coat in most cases. This means you will be spending less time working on the roof and more time doing the things you want.

Even with a single coat, you will find that it is very durable. When applied correctly, it can last a long time – decades. The coating can withstand extreme temperatures, as well. In fact, it can hold up to -40F to 300F with no trouble at all. No matter the temperature in your area, you can be sure that this coating is going to last and keep out the leaks.

Once you have applied the coat, it will dry in a couple of hours in most cases. It will cure within about two or three days. Once the Liquid Rubber is on your roof, it is going to keep your building safe from the rain, so you do not have to worry about leaks.

Is It Right for You?

Do you have a commercial property? Do you have a residential property? Regardless, you will find that the Liquid Rubber for roof repair is a good solution for both. The only caveat is that the roof needs to be flat, or nearly flat. Otherwise, the coating will run, not adhere properly, and will not provide adequate protection.

If you are worried about leaks, it is time to consider using Liquid Rubber for roof repair. It is a simple DIY solution that could be right for you.

Why Use Liquid Rubber Roofing

Posted on July 13, 2017 by rubberroofing

Are you trying to find a roofing product that can truly keep your property safe from rain, leaks, rough weather, and other issues? Those who have a flat roof could consider using Liquid Rubber roofing to take care of their problems. This material has some fantastic benefits that help to make it a stellar choice for your roofing needs. Let’s get a closer look at some of those advantages now.

A Longstanding Reputation

When you are choosing a product for your roofing needs, you want to choose something that has good reviews and that has been around for a while. With Liquid Rubber, you have a product that has been popular for a long time. People have been using EPDM for decades, and it has proven itself to be a great choice for roofing professionals, as well as those who are looking for a DIY roofing option. It can provide the protection your roof needs.

Simple to Apply

One of the nice features of Liquid Rubber roofing is the fact that it is so simple to apply to your roof. You can do it with a paint roller, along with some brushes to get around tight spots if needed. It is just as easy as putting on a coat of paint. You only need to use one coat of the Liquid Rubber, as well.

Whether you are putting the coating on your roof at home or a workspace that you own, or even a large commercial space, it will be fast and easy. You can do it on your own, too, which can save you some money.

In most cases, the product will dry in a couple of hours, and it will be fully cured within about two to three days. However, you do want to make sure that you are applying the product on days when it is not raining and the temperature is above 55 F. As soon as the Liquid Rubber is on the roof, it can provide you with protection against the elements, even before it has fully dried.

It Can Handle Temperature Changes

Do you live in an area that has summers that get quite hot, or an area that has some frigid winters? If you do, using a low-quality coating on your roof is a terrible idea. The poor-quality coatings are not often able to handle the changes in temperature. They tend to crack. If they crack, they will not do you much good when it comes to protection from water damage. A great coating, such as Liquid Rubber, can expand and contract with the fluctuations in the temperature. This means you do not have to worry about those cracks.

No More Leaks

Of course, one of the biggest and best reasons to use Liquid Rubber is the fact that it can take care of any leaks that you might have now, and prevent future leaks from occurring. It provides you with that added layer of protection you need, and is a fantastic way to keep your roof safe.

DIY EPDM Liquid Rubber Roofing Tips

Posted on June 15, 2017 by rubberroofing

You are concerned about your roof. Perhaps you have noticed a leak and need to have it fixed, or perhaps you are simply worried that leaks could be coming soon. Maybe you worry about the damages UV rays are causing to the roof, wearing it down prematurely. Fortunately, there is a way to protect your roof, and you can do it on your own. EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing is an ideal solution for those who want to protect their roof properly. Let’s look at some of the things you can do to get started.

Get Your Tools and Clean the Roof

You will need to have cleaning materials including brooms and wire brushes. In some cases, a pressure washer could be handy, too. You will also need the EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing, as well as rollers and brushes for the application.

Once you have the materials you need, you need to clean the roof properly before you can get started. Start by sweeping off the large debris, but make sure you are very meticulous about getting off as much debris and gunk as possible. In some cases, this could include scrubbing areas with a wire brush just to make sure that you are getting all the loose rust or other materials off. Spray the roof and let it dry.

Apply Wisely

Fortunately, the EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing will go on nice and easy, very much like paint. Apply it with rollers, and brushes in areas that might be hard to reach. When you are applying the coating, be sure that you have enough to cover the entire roof, and that you paint the roof in a manner that still allows you to get down from it safely. The last thing you want to do is paint yourself into a corner.

Something else you will want to consider when you are applying the EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing is the weather. Ideally, you will want to do this in good weather, when it is sunny and in the upper 50s F. This way, it will dry and cure faster. One of the nice things about the coating though is that even if it were to start raining right after you applied it, your roof would still be protected. It would simply take longer to dry and cure.

Is DIY Always the Right Way to Go?

While it is certainly possible to take care of the coating on your own, you might not have the time or the inclination to apply the EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing. In that case, you may want to speak with a roofing specialist in your area who can take care of the application for you instead. You can buy the materials and then just have the specialist take care of the application. Depending on the size of your roof, it should not take long at all. It might not be quite as cost effective as DIY, but it should still be affordable.

Now that you know more about EPDM Liquid Rubber roofing and how you can apply it, get started. It is the perfect way to make sure your roof is safe from leaks and UV rays.