If you find yourself always repairing the wooden shingles of your business or house, a rubber roof or a torch down roof system may be an interesting alternative. Its light yet durable substance thoroughly weatherproofs your business or home, and is also energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Often made from recycled materials, a rubber roof is low in maintenance and is especially resistant to hail and fire. Because it is able to withstand extreme outdoor temperatures, these surfaces have a longer lifespan and are able to provide great insulation by keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Also, they’re perfect for roof-gardens because of their impenetrable seal as you water your plants.
However, this innovation is still fairly new to the market, so when hiring a roofer, make sure they are familiar with installing this product.
Types of Systems
There are two types of systems available, both with their own specific advantages:
Whole-Roof: Some rubber roofs can be sold by the square, but one square is often able to cover up to 100 square feet. These systems are custom-made in the factory to form-fit to your particular house. Though it is a bit more expensive, there is almost no chance of leakage because there are no seams involved. It is especially ideal for flat-roofs because they often lack proper drainage systems and can be easily covered with two to three squares.
Shingles: Rubber roof shingles give the look of authentic, traditional shingles except with all the benefits of synthetic materials. They’re easier to handle because of their light weight, which helps in transporting the product from the store to the home, and from the ground up onto the roof. They can be formed and shaped with a simple slice of a utility knife, and they are easier to put onto the house with a nail gun or adhesive. However, since rubber roof shingles are installed like any wooden or asphalt product, the project will still require the expertise of professional roofer to get the job done right.
The greatest advantage to this type of material is that it can be easily fixed. Though it is a very durable substance, rubber is not indestructible. The surface can expand and contract with the weather and over time rubber roof shingles can possibly rip, tear, or fall off. This is why it is important to have a preventive maintenance plan in place to be able to catch damages and do the less costly repairs first before having to do a whole restoration or replacement.