Elastomeric Roofing
Elastomeric roofing or rubber roofing, as it is commonly called, is one type of synthetic roofing material that is a composition of recycled rubber. This rubber is being chipped off in the rubber mill and the small chips are mixed with different chemicals to manufacture the RRPV (Recycled Rubber Poyurethane Elastomer) or the EPDM (Ehtylene Propylene Diene Monomer). To be able to come up with ultra violet (UV) filtering ability, manufacturers of rubber roof often add pulverized stone, limestone, or slate to the mixture. It also enhances the look of the material and its durability.
To do the installation of elastomeric roofing, it needs to have an underlayment. But before the construction work is left for the day, roofers should have already finished applying the membrane roofing underlayment. The reason for this is to avoid water to get in when rain occurs unexpectedly as this will wet up the interiors of the framework like the plywood and insulation board. And if this happens without awareness, there is a big tendency that sooner or later moisture on the insulation board or the plywood will cause the material to be easily damaged.
Elastomeric roofing may be applied with elastomeric coating in liquid form and “rubber-like” protective membranes. During the progress of the construction work, it may serve as a maintenance and protection for the rubber roof for possible leakage or tearing down. The use of rubber coating doesn’t only repairs annoying leaks but it can help save money due to its heat reflectivity. But proper coating selection should be done, as not all elastomeric coatings are the same. They may differ in durability, adhesion, and in some of its mechanical properties such as tensile strength and elongation. Your roofing consultant can get you the best advices on this.
As compared to clay tile roofing, elastomeric roofing is 100% percent waterproof because of its anti-porous property. It is also fireproof and a single-ply application is all that is needed. Because of its UV filtering ability, the material is able to resist against ultraviolet radiation, gases, and even snow and ice. This type of roofing material can last from 40 years onwards, depending on the durability of the rubber.
If you live in a place where temperature can go as low as 20 degree Celsius, don’t ever think of using this type of roofing material. Elastomeric roofs are not very flexible in low temperatures. Have other alternatives ready, or consider shifting to another location if you would really like to use rubber roofing for your building.