If you asked the average homeowner to make a list of common roofing materials, you’d probably hear things like tile, slate, shingles, maybe even tin, but most people wouldn’t think of rubber. Rubber is a fairly common roofing material (although it is more commonly used on commercial roofs than residential) and it can be a great choice for your home, for a variety of reasons. If you don’t know much about rubber roofs, and can’t think of a single reason it might be a wise choice for you and your home, we’ve got some information that might surprise you!
Why Do People Prefer Rubber Roofing?
Rubber is becoming a more popular option in roofing. Where it has really taken off is in commercial applications. A rubber, or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) roof is great mostly because of the cost-savings, but it is also increasing in popularity because it is one of the most environmentally conscious roofing choices out there.
- Cost: The cost of rubber roof installation – as well as repairs to rubber roofs – is excellent in comparison with other kinds of roofing. The material is less expensive, it weighs less, and the installation is faster and easier than with other types of material. An inexpensive material that is quick to install and easy to repair results in a significantly reduced cost to home or business owners for both installation and maintenance.
- Longevity: A rubber roof also can last longer than other types of roof treatments. Usually, we can lay down a rubber roof in one single piece, so we do not need to deal with seams. Seams are often problematic in other roofs and are the weak points where leaks can begin. Because rubber roofs are one continuous piece, the gradual deterioration around these seams is not a consideration and this leads to a longer lifespan, on average, for rubber roofs.
- Durability: Since rubber is not as sensitive to ultraviolet rays, is impermeable by water, and is less affected by changes in temperature than other types of roofing, you have much less wear and damage to deal with from sun and moisture exposure. Rubber can also weather serious hailstorms and high winds with less damage than other types of roofing materials.
- Cheaper Repairs: Fixing rubber roofs is cheaper, in part, because we can take care of minor damage with a tube of liquid rubber. Fixes are often quick and easy, and very little maintenance is required on rubber roofs in general – a fresh paint job every decade or so is usually sufficient to keep it looking great and continuing to protect your home well.
- Environmental Advantages: Rubber is also more environmentally friendly, as it requires less energy to make than other types of building materials. Recycled materials can often go into the construction of a rubber roof, and the rubber roofing material is fully recyclable at the end of its life as well, leading to much less waste heading to the landfill.
What Is the Drawback of a Rubber Roof?
So, if a rubber roof is cheaper, easier to maintain, and has a lower environmental impact than other types of roofing materials, what is the drawback? Why isn’t everyone rushing to install rubber roofing on their homes? The only hesitation most people have is the appearance of a rubber roof, which is thought of as being utilitarian and boring. However, with the latest advances in acrylic paints and rubber shingles, these constructions are looking better each year, and there are aesthetic choices to fit the style of your home. Give us a call, and we can help you find the option that’s right for you and your home.
Rubber Roof Experts in Cincinnati
If you’re curious to learn more about the possibility of installing a rubber roof on your home, we’re here to answer your questions and to provide an estimate. And, despite its durability, rubber roof repair is sometimes needed in Cincinnati. And if that’s what you’re looking for, Harper Siding and Roofing is a local, trusted, affordable roof repair company that is ready and able to assist!
If you would like an estimate here in Cincinnati, call us at 513-444-6098. Our friendly and knowledgeable crew at Harper Siding and Roofing would be more than willing to help you make your roof longer-lasting, more cost-effective, more fire-resistant, and more sustainable.