Rubber roofing is a synthetic material that is also known as ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM). This roofing material is increasingly being used in the US and other places around the world due to its resistance to leaks.
If you are thinking about installing rubber roofing, you need to first read about its pros and cons. Here we have listed the benefits and drawbacks of the Huntsville roofing material so that you can make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Pros of Rubber Roofing Material
1. Durable
Rubber roofing is long lasting and does not require major maintenance efforts through the years. The roofing material can last for up to 50 years with proper maintenance and care. A great thing about the roofing material is that the maintenance cost is low.
Rubber roofing installed by an experienced Huntsville roofer won’t develop a leak as good quality rubber material doesn’t easily develop a crack. If the crack does appear, it is easy to repair using a latex sealant.
2. Flexible Material
Another great thing about rubber roofing material is that it is extremely flexible. The roofing material moves with the building.
Not many people notice it but buildings do change their shape over time. This happens due to contractions and expansion of the building material due to exposure to weather condition. The shifting property of the roof can also create a leak in rigid roofing materials due to which air and water can get inside.
Rubber roofing is flexible. It moves with the building due to which it can maintain its position for decades. The roofing material will probably outlast you due to which you don’t have to replace the material in your lifetime.
3. Saves Heating and Cooling Cost
Rubber roofing also have insulation properties. Thick roofing material reduces loss of heat. Some type of rubber materials can reflect about 90 percent of heat back in to the atmosphere. This prevents the home from getting too hot during the summers that reduces cooling costs.
4. Reduce Installation Cost
Installation of rubber roofing material is easier as compared to installation of tradition roofing material. It takes much less time to install resulting in reduced cost of installation.
The material comes in rolls that are placed on the surface. Moreover, they are also available in the form of shingles. Installation of the material does not require special tools.
Cons of Rubber Roofing Material
1. Prone to Punctures
While rubber material is resistant to major damage, they can become punctured easily by branches or stones that fall on the roof. The rubber can also get punctured if you walk on it when cleaning the roof. However, the good thing is that it is easy to repair the punctures without having to replace the entire roof.
2. Industrial Appearance
Many people don’t consider rubber roofing since it looks plain with an industrial appearance. But you can find rubber roofing material in the shape of shingles. These are attractive option that provide the benefit of a rubber material but also retain the appearance of shingle tiles.
3. Low Load Bearing
Lastly, rubber roofing material cannot withstand heavy load. It can puncture easily in case of a load. You cannot install solar panels or dish antenna on the roof as it will damage the roofing material. Once you know the pros and cons of the roofing material, you will have an easier time make making the right decision. Make sure that you hire experienced Huntsville roofers for installation of any type of roofing material. This is important to ensure that the roofing material will last for a long time resulting in cost savings for you.