Problems With Flat Rubber Roofs

Common epdm rubber roof problems and their causes leaks and moisture.

Problems with flat rubber roofs.

While the rubber roofs are known to be durable they also need maintained. Another common entry for epdm rubber roofing problems is puddles of water forming on your roof. If the rubber does develop cracks or leaks it is possible to fix these quickly yourself with a coat of liquid rubber latex tape or sealant. Below we will explain that one of the major problems with rubber roofs is the poor workmanship of roofing contractors who install and repair them.

Rubber roofs are not to be confused with sprayed polyurethane foam spf which is sprayed onto the roof as a liquid. It may come as a surprise to you but the roofing industry often misleads and misinforms consumers into buying products designed to fail within 15 years or less. Epdm rubber may be very cheap but from the perspective of quality and longevity it is one of the least reliable flat roofs. Spf roofs also tend to attract critters like birds and squirrels that like to bury acorns into it causing leaks.

Another benefit to using rubber roofing particularly rolled rubber roofing on flat roofs is the easy maintenance. Regular maintenance of flat roofs is still required as they are less forgiving than steeply sloped roofs. The system is not attached mechanically. You will want to make sure all seams are sealed and any cracks that appear are quickly fixed though this may not be a major problem as most rubber roofs are uv resistant.

Leaks can be a real problem for rubber roofs that haven t been properly maintained particularly. Using the wrong roofer to install a rubber roof can lead to problems down the line due to incorrect installation and can even negate a warranty on the rubber itself. The most common problems are that rainwater outlets become blocked with leaves and other windblown debris. Three most common problems with rubber roofs is improper installation shrinkage and the seams.

Virtually the only negative for a rubber roof is appearance and even that drawback can be overcome with the use of rubber shingles or acrylic paint. Spf roofing must be recoated regularly and can tear when scraped by tree limbs and flying debris. While epdm roofing is typically black you can simply cover it with a coat of white acrylic paint which can help to keep it coolwhile further extending its longevity.