Rubber roofing is a practical roofing option. Whether you’re searching for a more durable alternative to asphalt shingles or a protective layer over your existing roof, it’s hard to go wrong with rubber.
Each of the four types of rubber roofing – EPDM, TPO, PVC, and rubber shingles- come with distinct benefits, drawbacks, and costs.
What is Rubber Roofing?
Rubber is one of the strongest materials created by Mother Nature. Naturally resistant to mold, rust, and corrosion, rubber becomes more powerful when vulcanized. Its molecules bond into chains that easily resist cracking and breaking. Since these molecules are also waterproof, it’s no wonder this material is considered ideal for a number of applications, including roofing
Rolls of rubber sheets are commonly used in commercial roofing, but they also have their place in residential roofing. Contrary to popular belief, many houses with low-sloped or flat roofs have rubber shingles, though you wouldn’t know it by looking at them. Nowadays, rubber roofing comes in various colors, textures, and styles and can easily resemble slate or cedar shake, making it an attractive option to homeowners.
Most rubber roofs are guaranteed for 25 years, though many last up to 50 years with little to no issues. The benefits of rubber roofing have everything to do with durability and affordability.
Types of Rubber Roofing
If rubber roofing sounds appealing, there are four types to choose from: EPDM, PVC, TPO, and rubber shingles. Rubber is famous for its robustness, and while it might not last as long as slate, it beats the durability of modified bitumen, asphalt, and built-up roofing.
EPDM
Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), is the only single-ply option made strictly of rubber, a tried and true material many roofers prefer. EPDM rubber roofing can be applied using a singular, seamless sheet instead of multiple, layered rolls – whether you need roof installation or replacement.
Benefits
- EPDM is a highly durable, fire- and hail-resistant, lightweight synthetic rubber.
- EPDM’s impressive lifespan is another selling point. A study conducted in 2010 showed that 30-year EPDM membrane samples could last another 20-plus years, bringing its total lifespan to an impressive 50 years in favorable conditions.
- As a roofing material, EPDM is low-maintenance and very inexpensive to repair.
Downsides
- EPDM roofs can shrink, exposing the layers underneath the rubber roofing membrane and potentially allowing water to penetrate the structure.
- This material usually comes in black, which means buildings can bake in the hot sun.
- Not aesthetically pleasing
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is made flexible by adding chlorine salts and plasticizers to its composition. This premier roofing material comes in various colors, including energy-efficient white. Installers generally heat-weld the seams to create a smooth, waterproof seal.
Benefits
- When properly installed and maintained, PVC roofs can last 20 to 30 years.
- The material is recyclable, durable, and eco-friendly.
- Membranes made of PVC are designed to be watertight, especially during strong storms and hurricanes.
- PVC is highly resistant to chemical exposure, common in commercial buildings such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities.
Downsides
- The benefits of PVC come at a higher cost. For instance, you could pay 12 times more for a PVC roof than an EPDM one.
- There is debate on whether PVC poses a significant health and environmental threat. Environmental organizations stress that PVC emits dioxins, which are known toxic pollutants.
TPO
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a newer material. While it doesn’t share the history of EPDM and PVC, TPO’s impressive energy efficiency has made it a popular choice. It is a white, single-ply membrane used for both residential and commercial roofing. Unlike EPDM, TPO reflects heat instead of absorbing it, making it an excellent option for keeping a room cool.
Benefits
- TPO is highly flexible, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly.
- TPO roofs are highly resistant to UV rays, puncturing, tearing, water damage, bacterial growth, and dirt buildup.
- It comes in various colors, making it adaptable to various home styles.
- Its seams are hot air-welded, meaning they are water-resistant and four times stronger than EPDM’s.
Downsides
- TPO is relatively new on the market, so its lifespan still needs to be discovered.
- Not all TPO membranes are the same. Products from inadequate brands won’t last nearly as long as those from quality manufacturers.
- It is more expensive than other low-slope roof systems (not only the material itself but also technical repairs).
Rubber Shingles
If you seek the durability of rubber without the drab, one-dimensional style of single-ply sheets, rubber shingles are a great option. Not to mention that rubber shingles can easily resemble slate or cedar shake, so you won’t have to sacrifice style in your quest to safeguard your home.
Benefits
- Rubber shingles represent a nice upgrade from asphalt shingles.
- They are durable and long-lasting, able to withstand extreme weather conditions – including hurricanes.
- Rubber shingles are lightweight, recyclable, and fire- and pest-resistant.
Downsides
- Rubber shingles have a strong smell and can be susceptible to black mold
- They require regular cleaning and maintenance.
- To avoid color fading, they require a protective UV sealant.
Cost of Rubber Roofing
Installing a rubber roof costs between $6,000-$18,000, with the average coming to approximately $12,000. Homeowners must budget for materials, labor, obstructions, and various customizations.
One of the main factors in cost is the type of rubber material. Here is a cost breakdown by material:
| Rubber Roofing Type | Average Lifespan | Materials and Labor Per Square Foot |
| TPO roofing system | 10 to 30 years | $4.50 to $14 |
| PVC roofing system | 10 to 15 years | $5.25 to $12.50 |
| EPDM roofing system | 20 to 30 years | $4.25 to $12 |
| Rubber Shingles | 15 to 30 years | $7.50 to $15 |
Annual inspections and cleanings will prevent premature replacements, so budgeting for maintenance is necessary. If you catch it early, repairing a small leak or crack can cost as little as $150. More extensive repairs, such as water damage, electrical failures, and color fading, can cost around $7,000. Depending on roof size, expect to pay between $250-$650 for a professional cleaning.
How Do I Know if a Rubber Roof is Right for Me?
Rubber is a great choice to eliminate problems that come with wood and asphalt. It’s not only low-maintenance, but it can also last up to 50 years. The interlocking panels allow zero water penetration in the roof, while the dense material stands up to winds of over 170 kph.
Rubber roofing is a viable option for a number of applications. It’s commonly used on both residential and commercial projects, including extensions, garages, balconies, office blocks, warehouses, schools, and sports centers.
So why not choose rubber for a change? It can mimic the look of rock or wood slate shingles, comes in various colors and textures, and can match or even enhance the look of your home.
FAQ About the Types of Rubber Roofing
TPO roofing doesn’t shrink. However, the seams may fail if not properly installed by a professional roofing company. This will result in leaks and water damage.
To make your rubber roof last, schedule an inspection twice a year as well as after any major storms. Your roofing contractors will be able to identify any leaks, tears, or cracks before they cause severe damage. They’ll use a specialized sealant or rubber tape to fix any problem quickly and easily.
First, your contractors will clean and strip your roof of any existing materials. Then, they’ll coat it with an adhesive and apply the rubber carefully across the roof. The rubber must be flattened not to trap any air underneath. Moist air will breed mold, which can damage your home.
Find a Pro to Install Your Rubber Roof
From scorching heat to months of snow and ice, the weather can take its toll on a building. If you need a new roof or leak repairs, local roofing pros can get the job done. With an experienced crew at your disposal, the installation will go fast to minimize the disruption to your life.
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