Category Archives: EPDM Rubber Roofing

5 Tips to Help You Identify and Repair Roof Leaks in Rubber Roof Coatings

Posted on by
Reply

Your roof is a vital component of your home. It protects your interior from the elements, from harsh sunlight, and from temperature extremes. It also helps hold the entire structure together. If you have an EPDM rubber roof, you enjoy significant benefits over other types of roofing systems, such as asphalt shingles. However, you are still subject to leaks, and those can be challenging to locate. In this post, we want to address several tips to help you identify and then repair roof leaks in rubber roof coatings.

Start from the Inside

Finding a leak can be hard, unless it’s so bad that water is visibly dripping from the ceiling of your home, which usually isn’t the case. Often, it is easiest to spot signs of a roof leak from the inside of your home, rather than from the outside. Look at ceilings throughout your home, as well as the walls. You’re looking for darker discolorations, often red or brown. These are signs that water has made it to the sheetrock, penetrated the material, and then dried. If you see any of these markings, you certainly have a leak. However, it might not be directly above the area where the discoloration appears, as water can enter through the roof, run down the underlayment, and then drip down far from where it originally entered the home.

Get Up in the Attic

To find leaks in rubber roof coatings, you will eventually need to get up in your attic or crawl space. This gets you one step closer to the source of the leak and will allow you to further investigate the situation. Once in the attic, go to where you saw the water stains on the ceiling or wall. Use a flashlight to locate water stains on wood or to find wet insulation (which can be challenging to spot on its own).

Follow the Trail

Once you have found where the water is coming from, it’s time to follow the trail. In some instances, you may find that there’s a puncture in the roof and underlayment directly above the space where you noticed the water damage in your home’s interior, but this is not usually the case. You’ll often have to follow the trail from that point to where the water actually entered the home. Remember that water always runs downhill, and it always follows the path of least resistance. With that in mind, try to trace its path back to the point of origin.

Inspect the Top for Damage

In some cases, this may lead you to obvious damage. If you spot a hole in your roof, that’s more than likely going to be the source of your leak. However, you may not find any large gap in the roof. Instead, you’ll find a point between two pieces of roofing underlayment where water entered. To find out what’s really going on, you’ll need to get on top of the roof.

Getting up on the roof of your home is always a dangerous proposition, so be careful. Make sure to have a helper handy in case you fall and need help. Using a ladder, climb up on your roof and go to the area where you believe the water entered the structure. Check for punctures through the rubber, or areas where caulking might be missing. Damaged flashing can also allow water into your home.

Use Liquid Rubber for Repairs

Once the source of the leak is located, rubber roof coatings can be repaired with Liquid Rubber. A single layer of Liquid Rubber gives you a waterproof seal immediately, preventing further water incursion into your home.

Liquid Rubber Roof Coatings Great for Repair

Posted on by
Reply

EPDM has been in use for quite a while, but some new advances have helped to make this solution even more popular. The big change comes from the fact that the EPDM roof coating can now be liquid. This has helped to open up all sorts of new possibilities. Both the traditional sheets and the new liquid are good options, and sometimes, it is possible to use both. For the most part, they are going to be most successful on roofs that are flat or that have a low slope.

Liquid and Sheets Both Have Benefits

In the past, the go to solution for many roofers was to use EPDM sheets. They are great for protecting the roof, and they are flexible enough that getting around things such as pipes and gutters is usually not an issue. The sheets are popular for both homes and businesses. However, the sheets do have one flaw, and that is the fact that they have seams. Since there are seams, it means that moisture is able to work its way down in between them and still cause damage and leaks to the roof. The system will slow the process, certainly, but there can still be damage.

One of the greatest benefits of the liquid rubber roof coatings is that they do not have seams. This gives the roof a complete seal. You could use the coatings on their own or in conjunction with the sheets if you like. The coating is even more durable than the sheets, so you will not have to worry about constant maintenance and repair, which should be a relief.

When you use liquid rubber roof repair, you will find that the only thing you have to do for your roof is check occasionally to make sure that there is no buildup of debris. Otherwise, there’s nothing to it. You can have a roof that lasts for decades all with just a single coat of EPDM.

How long will it take to install? With many types of roof repair, it can take a large team of professionals and many days to fix. That’s not the case with liquid roof repair though. In fact, you will be able to complete the process on your own if you would like. The coating will go on similarly to paint, and you can use a roller and brush to make sure you coat the entire surface. It’s quite easy to do all on your own, but if you do not have the time, you can always consider hiring a professional for help.

One of the things important to note, though, is that the liquid coating is not right for all types of roofs. It will work quite well for most flat and low angled roofs, and it works very well on RV roofs. However, it does not fare well when trying to use it on a roof that’s steep, since it’s hard for the liquid to stay in place. Still, it is a great choice for many of the roofs out there.

Need to Know Information About Liquid Rubber

Posted on by
Reply

Do you have a roof that has a low slope, or perhaps a flat roof? One of the best ways to keep that roof protected is with Liquid Rubber, a coating that can provide users with a range of benefits. Of course, those who are looking for some added protection to the roof will likely have questions about the product before they are willing to make a purchase. Let’s look at some of the information that you should know before you decide whether Liquid Rubber is right for your roof.

Liquid Rubber Roofing

Liquid Rubber Roofing

Where Can This Type of Coating Be Applied?

This is one of the most frequent questions because people want to make sure they are buying the right material for the job. You will find that Liquid Rubber can be used with many different types of surfaces. This includes rubber membranes, concrete, fiberglass, acrylic sheets, metal, and more. If you are using it on a different type of surface, you will want to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure it will work well for your needs. Overall, this is a highly versatile product that can work well for a wide range of roof materials.

Is the Liquid the Same as the Membrane EPDM?

You might have heard about EPDM membranes, which are often used for roofing material, and you might have wondered how different they are from Liquid Rubber. While the materials are both EPDM, there are some differences you will want to keep in mind. One of the issues with the membranes is that they will create seams when they are placed together on the roof. With the liquid option, you will not have to worry about this at all. There will be no seams. The liquid tends not to become chalky as fast as the membranes, too. An additional benefit is that you will not have to make cuts as you might with membranes to accommodate for vents. You simply paint around them.

What Is the Cure Time?

Another question that you may need answered is how long it takes from the application of the material to the time where it is considered waterproof. One of the great benefits of this waterproof sealant is its ability to provide this waterproofing from the moment it is added to the roof. You will not have to wait until it cures, which typically takes a few days. It will be providing you protection from the moment it is laid on your roof.

How Hard Is the Application Process?

Perhaps one of the best benefits of this type of roofing material is the fact that you do not need to be a professional roofer to install it. While you could hire professionals if you wish, it is also possible to take care of the installation all on your own. After cleaning the roof, you can apply it with a roller and brush similar to how you would paint something. You only need to add a single coat, and it will easily go around vents and pipes. It is nice and easy to do.

If you will be applying your Liquid Rubber to the roof, make sure that you have a measurement of your roof, so you can be sure you are buying the right amount of the product. Also, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that you are applying it the right way.

If you are on the fence about getting Liquid Rubber for your roof, these benefits should show you why so many other people have already started to use this for their own roofs.

Who Should Use Liquid EPDM Rubber for the Roof?

Posted on by
Reply

Have you heard liquid EPDM rubber used on roofs and wondered whether it might be something that would work well for your property? Perhaps you thought that this solution would only work for businesses, or maybe you have a business but weren’t sure whether it was beneficial enough for you. It is time to learn more about this product and where it tends to work the best.

Homeowners

If you are a homeowner who has a residence that has a flat roof, or a low sloped roof, then you may be able to utilize this type of surface for your roof. While this could work for your home, it will depend on the type of roof that you have. You may want to check to see if there are any regulations where you live that determine the type of roofing you are allowed to have.

If you have some outbuildings that have low or slightly sloped roofs, then you will certainly want to consider this type of rubber for the roof. Later, we will look at the main benefits that this Liquid Rubber can provide.

Businesses

Many businesses already have flat roofs, and that means that they tend to be an ideal candidate for this type of roofing material. This tends to be an affordable solution that will provide some protection for the roof. Whether it is a building in a strip mall or a standalone building, Liquid Rubber can be a great choice.

What Are the Benefits?

One of the biggest and most important benefits of Liquid Rubber is its ability to provide your roof protection against the elements. This means it will be much less likely for you to develop a leak in the building. Think about how important this would be for businesses that have a lot of equipment or stock that they need to keep safe and dry. It would also be a benefit to homeowners, of course. Having this protection added now can help to save a lot of trouble and costs in the future.

Liquid Rubber Roofing

Liquid Rubber Roofing

You will also notice that the Liquid Rubber is available in two different colors – black and white. When you are choosing one for your business, you will want to think about your geographic location. If you live in an area where it tends to be hot through most of the year, getting the white EPDM rubber roofing is a good option, as it will reflect the sun’s rays, keeping it cooler inside of the building. If you live in an area where it gets cold during part of the year, you might want to have black roofing, as it will keep it warmer. This can help you keep your energy costs somewhat lower.

With Liquid Rubber, you will also have the benefit of flexibility in the types of roofing materials it works with. It works well for concrete, metal, wood, and more. No matter the type of roof you have now, it is likely that the coating will work well for you, too.
A final benefit to discuss is the actual application. While you could hire professionals for the installation of the EPDM rubber, the liquid coatings are DIY. You can follow the instructions from the manufacturer and have the coating on your roof in a very short time. It goes on simply, like paint, so nearly anyone will be capable of giving their roof the protection it needs.

If you have been wondering whether Liquid Roof is right for you, the answer is probably yes. Just make sure that you have a flat or low-sloped roof.

Benefits of Working with a Professional for Your EPDM Rubber Roofing & Repair

Posted on by
Reply

Are you considering getting a new EPDM roof, or are you in need of a repair to the EPDM roof that you already have in place? If so, you might be tempted to apply the EPDM on your own. While it is possible, it often turns out to be more work than many people initially expect. Therefore, you may want to consider working with an experienced professional for your roofing needs. You will find some great benefits when you do.

It Will Be Done Right

As long as you take your time to properly vet the company you choose to handle your roofing needs, you can be sure it is done properly. Check their references, and make sure they have experience when it comes to dealing with EPDM liquid rubber roofing. Those who have worked with EPDM understand how to install and apply it properly, and they can take care of the job quickly in most cases.

Because you can be sure they are doing it right the first time, it means that it will be cost effective. One of the problems with trying to install the roofing materials on your own, if you have never done it before, is that you might not even know if you’ve made a mistake until you have a leak. You will not have to worry about this with the professionals, and they will have a warranty available in most cases. The warranty, and the professional job that they do, will provide you with peace of mind when it comes to your roof.

It Will Be Completed Faster

While an EPDM roof tends to be easy to install in a short amount of time, depending on the size of the building, it can still take a novice quite a while. Those who want to have their roof protected or repaired quickly will certainly want to hire a professional to take care of it for them. Not only will it be completed faster, but you will have the time to spend working on things other than the roof.

EPDM Rubber Roofing

EPDM Rubber Roofing

It’s Safer for You

When you have the roofing pros come to take care of the roof, you can be sure they will have all of the right equipment, including safety equipment and protocols. This is far safer than trying to do it on your own without the right safety equipment. When you repair the roof on your own, you would have to invest in safety equipment, which would also add to the cost.

Can You Do It On Your Own If You Want?

One of the nice things about EPDM membranes and coatings is the fact that you do not have to rely on a professional in many cases if you don’t want to. Those who have the time and who are willing to learn how to do it on their own can certainly take care of simple repairs, and even roofing. The liquid EPDM tends to be the easiest to apply for DIYers, though, as it goes on like paint. Consider the type of EPDM you will be using, along with the size of your job, and the time you have available when you are making your decision.

Now that you have a better idea of just what benefits a pro can provide you, it’s time to make the choice. Are you going to apply the EPDM on your own, or are you going to work with a professional? Both are viable options you could choose, but one will be much easier than the other.

Understanding Liquid Rubber Coatings: A Look at the Advantages and Application Uses

Posted on by
Reply

The roof of a building or home is one of the most critical components. It is just as important as the foundation and the load-bearing walls. In fact, without the roof, the walls might rot away quickly, and even the foundation would be damaged by exposure to the elements. Due to exposure to UV rays, rain, sleet, snow, and temperature fluctuations, roofs can be damaged in a wide range of ways. Liquid rubber coatings can be used to repair that damage, and for many other things.

What Are Liquid Rubber Coatings?

Liquid rubber coatings are exactly what they sound like – coatings developed with a type of rubber. There are many types on the market today. For instance, you’ll find coatings made with silicone. Others are made with urethane. Some are made with the addition of acrylic. Yet other formulations might use neoprene, while others may use butyl rubber.

Liquid Rubber Roofing

However, one of the most versatile, high-performing, and durable options is made with what’s called ethylene propylene diene monomer, otherwise known as EPDM. This material is very durable, is highly resistant to UV rays, can be applied in any temperature situation, and offers a number of other advantages that make it ideal for roofing and roof repairs.

The Advantages of Liquid Rubber Coatings

As hinted at above, there are plenty of advantages associated with liquid rubber coatings, particularly with EPDM roofing material. One of those is that they are stable at all temperatures. Very high temperatures can soften some roofing materials, allowing them to sag and creating gaps in the protection offered. Very cold temperatures can make some roofing materials brittle and more prone to breakage. EPDM liquid rubber coatings, on the other hand, are stable at all temperatures and perform well throughout the year.

Another interesting advantage of liquid rubber coatings is the fact that they can be used to repair roofs even if there is a shift in the rooftop. If left unprotected, these can become gaps that allow water to penetrate beneath to the roofing substrate. The flexibility of rubber coatings allows them to flex, yet remain strong enough to protect against leaks.

Rubber roof coatings are also good for areas where traction might be needed, whether for workers, or in the case of any rooftop installation that requires regular maintenance or service – around HVAC systems, around green roof sections, and the like.

Finally, you’ll find that this material is completely impermeable. That means water cannot penetrate, even if it ponds up and remains for some time. It also means that oil and other chemicals cannot penetrate the coating.

Potential Uses for Liquid Rubber Coatings

Liquid rubber roof coatings have any number of potential uses. They can be used to repair damage to conventional roofing systems, or they can be used to refresh existing rubber roof systems. They can be used with the creation of new green roof garden areas, or to add soundproofing to a particular area. They make excellent solutions for creating semi-permanent walkways for workers who must access the roof regularly, and more. They can even be used to create an entirely new roof by covering up the existing roofing system.

How Are Liquid Rubber Coatings Applied?

There are two primary application methods used with these coatings. One is to pour an amount on the roof, spread it around with a squeegee, and then roll it on. The other is to use a sprayer to spray the material on. Spraying is faster, but rolling is more accurate. Spraying is a better fit for flat roofs, while rolling might be the best choice for pitched roofs.

Liquid rubber is a versatile material that offers immense benefits for both commercial and residential applications.

4 Reasons to Install a Liquid Rubber Roof

Posted on by
Reply

Whether you’re in the middle of planning a new home, in the process of construction, or are planning a re-roofing for an existing building, you need to make smart, savvy decisions when it comes to the materials you use. You might assume that metal, clay, slate, tar and gravel, bitumen, or even asphalt shingles are the best option for your home.

While they can all offer some advantages, none of them is really “best”. In fact, that term might be more reasonably applied to another option – a liquid rubber roof. Why should you consider going the rubber roof route, rather than something a bit more traditional? Here are four important reasons to consider this option.

1. Long Lasting

One reason to consider going the liquid rubber roof route rather than something more traditional is that it is much longer lasting. Flat roof types, such as built up bitumen and tar and gravel, generally only last about 10 to 15 years. Asphalt shingles generally have a lifespan of about 25 years, which means you may have to have it replaced at least once during your ownership. Rubber roofs can last 50 years or longer when properly installed and properly maintained.

2. Less Maintenance

All roofs require some degree of maintenance. Even metal roofs, which can last up to 50 years, need to be resealed from time to time to prevent corrosion and other damage. Rubber roofs need less maintenance than other options. While an annual inspection should be conducted to check for physical damage, little other maintenance must be done.

3. No Seams

Perhaps the single most problematic issue with any roofing system is the presence of seams. These are the weakest point on the roof – they can deteriorate and allow water to seep in. They can be damaged by wind during storms, and more. All roof systems have seams, or seam-like sections. For example, there is a seam between each individual sheet of metal in a metal roofing system. Technically, there is a seam between each row of shingles in a traditional asphalt shingle roofing system, too.

A liquid rubber roof, on the other hand, has no seams at all. Whether the rubber is rolled on or it is sprayed on, it will self-level and erase any tiny gaps. The result is a seamless whole membrane that offers outstanding protection and is very weather resistant. That means less chance of damage from storms, and a dramatic reduction in the chances of developing a water leak.

4. Faster Installation

Finally, there is the fact that liquid rubber roof material is faster to install than any other system on the market. It can take several days to install a metal roof. It can take a week or so to install a traditional asphalt shingle roof. Bitumen and tar and gravel roofs have similar timelines.

A liquid rubber roof, on the other hand, can take just a few hours. This is because all that needs to be done to adhere the roofing material is to apply it to a properly prepared substrate. It will immediately adhere and begin the curing process. The process is even faster if the liquid rubber is sprayed on rather than rolled on, but spraying is usually best suited to flat roofs.

By now it should be clear that not only is a liquid rubber roof an option for your home, but it may just be the fastest, most economical, and longest lasting roofing solution available to you. With that being said, professional installation is vital to ensuring the highest quality roof for your home.

Common Questions Regarding Liquid Rubber Coatings

Posted on by
2

Today, many people are choosing to use Liquid Rubber coatings for their roofs that are flat or that have low slopes. They learn about the benefits that the product can offer, and they want to have that protection for their own roof. However, they will still often have quite a few questions regarding the product. The following are some of the questions that many people tend to have with Liquid Rubber coatings.

How Is It Different from the Membrane Version of EPDM?

When it comes to EPDM, there are a couple of options. You could choose the membranes, or you could choose the Liquid Rubber coatings. The materials are essentially the same, but there are some important differences. With the liquid, you will not have to worry about seams, as you would with the membrane sheets. In addition, you will not have to worry about the liquid roof eventually becoming chalky, as it will with the sheets after about eight years or so.

Where Can EPDM Rubber Coatings Be Applied?

You will find that these coatings can be applied in many different locations and on many types of materials. They can be used on metal, rubber membranes, concrete, urethane foam, fiberglass, primed wood, acrylic sheets, foam insulation for popes, and much more. Because it can be used in so many locations, it means that you should not have any trouble putting this on your roof.

How Long Before the Coating Is Waterproof?

With many types of roofing, you need to wait until you have about a week of sunny weather that you can count on before you can apply it. With the Liquid Rubber coating, you will not have this worry. It will become waterproof and protect your roof from the moment that it is applied. Even if it rains just a few hours after installation, your roof will have protection from the water. Of course, it is still going to take several days of dry weather that’s at least 55 degrees F to cure properly.

Do I Need a Professional for the Installation?

When people think of adding a coating to their roof, they immediately think that they are going to need to hire contractors to take care of the job. With this type of coating, that is not the case, though, which is a wonderful benefit. You will find that when you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, it is simple enough that you can apply it on your own. It goes on like paint, and you can use it around pipes, vents, and other areas since it is so flexible and easy to use.

If you have a large roof or you do not want to apply the Liquid Rubber coating on your own, you could always hire someone if you prefer.

How Many Coats Are Needed?

One of the other nice benefits of this type of coating is that you are typically only going to need a single coat. In addition, you do not have to worry about adding a primer for most surfaces, and you will not have to add a top coat. This makes it a fast, efficient, and effective type or roof coating.

Why Are There Two Different Colors Available?

You might have noticed that there are two colors available for the product, black and white. Choosing the color is not about a matter of esthetics, but rather a way to help control the temperatures inside of the building. The black will absorb sunlight and tends to be a good option for those who live in colder areas where it snows. The white reflects the light and is better for those who live in hot areas. It can make it easier to reduce your energy costs during certain times of the year.

Now that you know more about the Liquid Rubber coatings, it is time that you added it to your own roof.

Top Benefits of Using Liquid Rubber Roofing

Posted on by
Reply

Liquid Rubber roofing is a fantastic option for many different types of buildings, including commercial buildings that have large flat roofs. This product will create a seamless membrane on the roof, which can provide you with a range of benefits. Let’s get a closer look at the biggest benefits that this type of roofing can offer to give you a better idea of why it might just be the ideal solution for your roof.

Easy Application

When it comes to many types of roofing materials, you are not going to be capable of installing or applying them on your own. You will not have the experience, knowledge, or tools to take care of it. However, with Liquid Rubber roofing, this is not going to be a problem at all. It is a DIY product, and you should not have any trouble when it comes to applying it on your own. Even with a large roof, you should be able to apply the roofing membrane quickly and easily, just like putting on a coat of paint. In fact, it is only going to need a single coat.

Heat and Cooling Benefits

One of the great benefits of using this type of roofing is the advantage that it can give you when it comes to your heating or cooling costs. The product is available in two colors – black and white. People who live in a climate where it gets cold and snows in the winter might want to choose the black Liquid Rubber roofing. This is going to absorb the heat from the sun, which will make the roof warmer, and keep the interior of the building warmer. This means you could lower your cost of heating the building.

Of course, when you use the white in a warm climate the opposite holds true. The white is going to reflect the sunlight, which will help to keep the building cooler, thus helping to reduce the AC costs.

Waterproofing for the Roof

Of course, one of the biggest benefits of having Liquid Rubber roofing is to provide your building with protection from water. This type of coating can help with rain and with ponding water that might accumulate on the roof. If you notice that you have any damage to the roof before you apply the coating, you might want to have it repaired before you add the coating.

Reduce Rust

When you are using Liquid Rubber roofing, you will find that the coating can be used with many different types of material. It can be added on top of asphalt, concrete, and metal. Having it cover the metal parts on the roof can provide them with some added protection, as well, and you will not have to worry about them rusting.

Durable

The coating is highly durable, and it will provide your roof with solid, quality protection for many years. In fact, it has been proven to work for more than 30 years. However, even though it is highly durable, you are still going to want to make sure that you inspect the roof occasionally to make sure that there are no issues.

Cost Effective

This is an affordable choice for those who want to repair their roofs and provide protection from further leaks in the future. It can increase the lifespan of the roof, and you do not even need to hire someone to apply it for you.

These are some of the top benefits of Liquid Rubber roofing. Now that you can see all of these benefits and how they could help you, it is easy to understand why so many people have chosen to go this route. It could be the best solution for your roofing needs, too.

7 Key Properties of Elastomeric Roof Coatings

Posted on by
Reply

Applying an elastomeric roof coating to your building can protect your underlying roof, which is very important for preventing costly future repairs. It can also help you to save on your energy costs, because coatings can reflect the sun’s heat and keep the heat out of your building. There are many options for roof coverings, but elastomeric roof coating is a great choice for many reasons.

Choosing the right coating means you need to be aware of the key features that make these roof coatings so beneficial. That allows you to choose the best quality when you select the coating for your roof.

Elasticity in Elastomeric Roof Coatings

This type of roof coating is ideal for climates where the temperature can change drastically. This is because of the coating’s elasticity, which means how well it moves as the building expands and contracts with the temperature change. Choose a coating that has a high elasticity rating to prevent breakage.

Perm Factor

The perm factor of a roof coating means how well it resists moisture. If the elastomeric roof coating has a lower perm factor, that means it is much more water proof. Choose the lowest perm factor you can find to prevent leaks.

Strength in Elastomeric Roof Coating

Tensile strength is the measurement of how well the coating will hold together over the years. Weather exposure is the key thing that causes coatings to deteriorate, so be sure to ask the manufacturer or installer about the coating’s ability to withstand the elements.

Tear Resistance

Tear resistance is different than tensile strength in that it measures how well the elastomeric roof coating will avoid tearing from foot traffic or other elements. It primarily measures how well the coating can withstand direct forces – such as hail falling on the roof – rather than UV rays and other environmental factors.

Moisture Gain by Weight

This feature of roof coatings measures how well the coating will either repel or absorb water so that it doesn’t come into contact with the surface below. Be sure to choose a coating with a good rating in this area to prevent damage to your building itself.

Peel Adhesion

You want to be sure that your coating will stick to the roof below no matter the conditions. Certain coatings are attached in different ways, so be sure to ask the installer which method is best for the coating you’ve chosen, and how well it will adhere over the years.

Reflectivity in Elastomeric Roof Coatings

Finally, you do want to consider how well the coating will reflect heat and light away from the building. Reflective coatings are usually white, while absorbing coatings are usually black. Be sure to consider this rating carefully, as it can drastically change your utility bills in the future.

When shopping for the roof coating that will best suit your building, be sure to keep these seven characteristics in mind. Choose the best quality that fits into your budget and you’ll have a solid roof for decades to come.