Thinking of upgrading your flat roof with something tough and long-lasting? Then rubber roofing is right for you! It’s durable with excellent water resistance properties and flexibility – no wonder it’s a favorite of many homeowners and contractors. Epdm Installers will transform your roof into the most watertight barrier.
We have compiled the following guide in detail on how to prepare the roof, clean it up, apply the rubber membrane, finish the roof edges, and create a gutter system. With a little preparation and appropriate tools, you can still ensure a great finish.
Tools You Need to Gather for Rubber Roof Installation
Before installing the roof on any surface, you must have all the necessary tools. Here is the list of things you should gather to ensure a seamless installation process.
- 4″ mini roller for applying contact adhesives
- 9″ paint roller with a tray for applying water-based adhesives
- Scissors for cutting rubber membranes
- Hammer for fixing nails to curbs and edges
- Broom for sweeping surfaces and smoothing out wrinkles
You can also find high-quality storage bags, leather tool belts, and heavy-duty holsters to store roofing essentials like hammers, nails, screws, fasteners, and other equipment.
A Comprehensive Guide to Installing Rubber Roofing On a Flat Roof
Applying the right method could make the roofing installation process easier. To do this, follow the step-by-step instructions given below.
Step 1: Prepare the Roof Deck
Prior to installing your rubber roofing system, you should ensure drying conditions for a few days. Check and clean the surface of the substrate to make sure it is completely free of dust, dirt, screws, nails, or other obstacles that may affect the rubber membrane or prevent the adhesive from adhering properly.
Step 2: Lay Down the Membrane
Place the membrane on the substrate and check if the membrane is upside down by looking for prints, watermarks, brand logos, etc. Lay it so that the completely smooth side is facing up.
Step 3: Let the Rubber Membrane Relax
Leave the membrane for 30 to 60 minutes to remove any wrinkles. The low overhang above ground is important for a completely sealed waterproof roof system.
Step 4: Apply the Water-Based Adhesive
Once the film is loose, pull half of it to the center point and apply the water-based adhesive with a paint roller. Leave the 15cm wide edge unglued, as it will require a different contact adhesive later. You can apply the water-based adhesive in sections, place a segment of rubber roofing on top of the wet adhesive, and then repeat the process with another coat of substrate. After that, brush the newly laid piece with a broom to ensure good adhesive contact.
Note: Be sure to use water-based adhesives when the temperature is 5 degrees or above; there is no chance of freezing within 24 to 48 hours.
Step 5: Roll the Other Side
Once one side is finished, repeat the process of rolling the other side back to the center, rolling it up, and placing glue. Be careful not to get glue on the upward-facing side of the rubber. Wipe it off before it dries.
Step 6: Remove All Air Bubbles
Once both sides are done, sweep the surface to eliminate air pockets from the roof. This approach will also improve the contact between the glue and the membrane.
Step 7: Improve the Bonding
If you are still concerned about wrinkles or unsightly creases in the membrane, add weight to those areas to improve adhesion and achieve a professional finish.
Step 8: Apply the Contact Adhesive
After that, you can use a small paint roller to apply adhesive to the 15 cm-wide edge of the substrate. Contact adhesive provides a stronger, more durable bond and prevents water infiltration.
Step 9: Finish Off the Roof Edges
Cut off excess EDPM tabs and finish the edge of the roof, leaving an overhang slightly shorter than the PVC strips that will be secured into place.
Step 10: Create a Gutter System
At last, create a gutter system with wooden slats and trim to allow water to drain from your roof into gutters, which is similar to installing the PVC trim.
Get Professional Rubber Roofing Services
As a matter of fact, a DIY enthusiast cannot install a roof like an expert. The process needs a proper toolkit and experience for a better finish. Therefore, you can get services from a trusted rubber roofing contractor like Precision Roofing. We have seasoned professionals who handle every task with ease and professionalism.
Can You Put a Rubber Roof On a Flat Roof?
Yes, you can put a rubber roof on a flat roof. The EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing solution is an excellent choice for small or large flat roof areas. It can make a normal bond to a timber deck without cutting it into small pieces. Additionally, rubber roofs are known for their flexibility and resistance to harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for flat roofs. EPDM roofs also provide UV resistance, preventing damage from sunlight, which is often a concern for flat roofs with prolonged exposure to the elements.
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last On a Flat Roof?
Properly installed rubber roofs are very durable and can last for 40 to 50 years if properly maintained. Moreover, if the roof is installed with proper drainage in mind, rubber roofing solutions will last much longer. Regular inspections and maintenance, such as clearing debris and ensuring water is not pooling on the surface, will help extend the roof’s lifespan. EPDM roofs also resist damage from hail, temperature fluctuations, and punctures, contributing to their longevity.
Does Rubber Roofing Have to be Glued Down?
Depending on your project’s specific requirements, you can decide whether it needs to be glued down. While fully bonded systems provide a safe, smooth surface, mechanically fixed ballast systems are a viable alternative that can save you time and money. Fully adhered rubber roofing requires adhesive to bond the membrane securely to the surface, providing strong wind resistance. On the other hand, mechanically fastened systems use screws or fasteners, which can be quicker to install and are a preferred option for some large commercial projects.
Conclusion
To summarize the discussion, rubber roof provides amazing flexibility and resistance to different weather conditions. So, it has proven to be an excellent choice for a flat roof. For your help, we have discussed a complete guide on installing rubber roofing on a flat roof.
Apart from accumulating essential tools, preparing the roof deck could be the first step of the installation process. Then, you can lay the membrane and apply the water-based adhesive on both sides. After that, try removing air bubbles, improving the bond, and finishing the roof edges. For better results, you can get professional services from a reliable roofing company.