Rubber Roofing

How to install a rubber roof

If you can't find a flat roofer near to you, there are four stages involved to installing a Rubber roof. Once these steps are followed they will ensure a smooth finish of the top of your decking.

Step 1-

Clean the roof: It is essential this is done thoroughly. This is to avoid lumps and areas that are unable to bond with the adhesive once the material has been laid. You should remove any debris on the roof, such as shingles and leaves. If there are gaps in the roof fill them in with wood strips. The rubber won’t hold large gaps, it wont hold any bigger than a quarter of an inch.

Step 2-

Position the membrane: The material can be rolled out and laid into the position needed across the surface on the roof. You should leave the material for around 20 to 30 minutes to let any creases or folds fall out. After this you should locate the bottom half of the rubber strip on top of the section that is higher. Do this before sweeping a broom over the exposed rubber to ensure it is completely flat and smooth.

Step 3-

Trim the material: The main trimming will happen closer to the end of the job, but you usually have to remove excess parts of the membrane that are making it hard to work with. A steady hand is needed to prevent going off course and removing more than you should.

Step 4-

Apply adhesive: A water based adhesive needs to be applied to the decking once one half of the membrane has been pulled back. Leave the glue no more than 150mm to the edges of the roof where the adhesive will later be applied. For any details on the roof and the edges, a stronger contact adhesive enables you to stick the membrane down into corners and some other areas that are complex.

Always ask a professional roofer before trying any DIY flat roofing project such as installing EPDM.

Roofing felt vs rubber roof

Torch on felt and EPDM rubber roofing systems are the materials which are most commonly used for residential homes in the UK. If you are still considering which to use here is an overview comparing the two materials.

Key factors

Cost: The cheaper out of the two is felt membranes. However, the difference in performance levels means rubber membranes are better value for money. EPDM is more cost effective in the long run, even though it initially costs more.

Durability: The more durable of the two is EPDM. It can withstand extreme weather across the year. Felt membrane is more easily blistered and cracked in hot and cold. You won’t have these issues with EPDM. Rubber roofing is more flexible which lessens the risks of leaks and means it is easier to repair.

Installation: Even if you are a DIY fanatic, installing torch on felt roofs is not a practical option due to the bitumen and gas torch boiler required. Trained professionals are able to take on this kind of job. This would also add to the price. EPDM membranes are applied cold. They use an adhesive solution which is safe and efficient. However, you should still use a professional company for this.

Appearance: Felt roofing is available in a variety of colours. Felts lack of durability can lead to an unpleasant aesthetic. It also does not react well to the growth of moss or algae. The opposite is true of EPDM for this.

Both materials have pros and cons. It is important that you make the time to weigh up your options properly before deciding.