Skip to content 
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last?
Rubber roofs are durable for a variety of reasons. Rubber roof such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is engineered to withstand hail, ozone, ultraviolet rays, and wind exceptionally well. It also exhibits high resistance to extreme temperatures and fire, making it a preferred choice in commercial settings.
But how long does a rubber roof last? A professionally installed rubber roof, if maintained correctly, can last between 40 and 50 years. Naturally, the lifespan of rubber roofs can be extended further with appropriate drainage considerations during installation.
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last? – Rubber Roof Lifespan
After the successful installation of your rubber roof, its exceptional durability ensures a long lifespan often spanning decades before requiring further upkeep.
Routine maintenance and checks can significantly extend the lifespan of your rubber roof. A visual examination can reveal initial signs of damage caused by weather conditions, dropped debris, or foot traffic. A skilled roofing contractor will also look out for blisters and scrutinize elements that influence water flow, ensuring water is correctly draining off the commercial roof as designed. Inspectors should undertake small repairs and remove debris from drainage paths to guarantee efficient water flow.
Periodic cleaning of the roofing membrane using a broom and a suitable cleaning agent can also be beneficial. However, avoid using petroleum-based cleaning products as they could harm rubber, or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofs.
Why my rubber roof is not lasting long?
The main thing that could stop your rubber roof from lasting up to 15 years is if the coating isn’t put on right. If too much or too little coating is used, or if it’s applied at the wrong time or the surface isn’t prepared properly, the roof might wear out faster.
Most rubber roof coatings come with a warranty, so make sure you know what it covers. If you see signs of poor quality, you might wonder again, “How long should a rubber roof last?” Ideally, it should last around 15 years. If it doesn’t, you might be able to get it fixed under warranty.
Benefits of Rubber Roof
If you’re a contractor or have some knowledge about roofing, you might be familiar with EPDM, an acronym for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, often referred to as rubber roofing. Many contractors advise commercial property owners to consider rubber roofs.
Rubber membrane roofs offer superior longevity, durability, and cost-effectiveness per square foot, positioning them as one of the top choices for replacing any impaired roofing material.
Ease of Installation
When rubber roofs are correctly installed, they provide a seamless surface. A roof without seams is more resistant to moisture and virtually eliminates the risk of leaks.
Other types of roofing may pose the risk of shingles or individual panels peeling off, thereby exposing the underlying roof to potential leaks. However, this concern is significantly mitigated with a seamless rubber roof installation.
Rubber roofs share similar characteristics with PVC, TPO, and other more costly roofing materials. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these roofs largely depends on the quality of the installation.
Lightweight
A rubber roof weighs about two pounds per square foot, which is lighter than materials like modified bitumen. But even though it’s light, it’s still really durable.
Because it’s lighter, it puts less stress on the roof over time, which helps keep your commercial roof in good shape for longer. Also, it’s easier to move and install. Heavier materials can be hard to carry up and down ladders or stairs, but rubber is much easier, which makes installing it a bit simpler too.
Durability
Rubber roofs are really strong, just like PVC and TPO ones. They’re tough enough to handle things like rooftop gardens. Because they’re seamless, they stop water from getting in, which stops mold and other things that could hurt the roof.
If your rubber roof is put in right and checked every year for any cracks that might let water in, it should last at least 40 years, if not more.
Professional Rubber Roof Installation
The initial step towards installing a rubber roof should be to engage the services of a commercial roofing contractor. These professionals come with extensive experience in the installation of such roofs, significantly reducing the likelihood of errors.
Disadvantages of Rubber Roofing
Despite having a few drawbacks, there are ample reasons why EPDM roofs are frequently chosen for commercial properties.
Rubber Roof Installation Steps
Roof Cleaning
Before proceeding, it is crucial to ensure proper preparation of the roof. This involves meticulously cleaning any debris or dust that may hinder the adhesive properties of the EPDM membrane. The membrane’s effectiveness lies in its ability to securely adhere to the surface of the roof.
Gutter Inspection
Gutter inspection is very important as these will redirect rainwater drips to the gutter, preventing any potential damage to the underlying supporting wall and fasteners.
Secure Flashing
Ensure proper preparation of the wall areas intended for flashing. This redirects moisture away from the wall, directing it towards the rubber membrane. You need to remove any excess brick mortar using a suitable tool like a mortar chisel. These steps are crucial to ensure secure attachment of the flashings.
Check out other types of roofing and their lifespan!
How to Measure a Roof for Metal Roofing?
When considering a switch to metal roofing, accurate measurement of your roof is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring
How Often Should Your Commercial Roof Be Inspected?
Ensuring the durability of your business roof is essential for the long-term upkeep of your property and the security of its inhabitants. Consistent evaluations play
How Long Does a Tar and Gravel Roof Last?
Curious about the longevity of tar and gravel roofing? As a homeowner, it’s vital to grasp the durability of this roofing option. While various factors
How Long Does a Commercial Roof Last?
In the fiercely competitive world of commercial real estate, the longevity of property assets plays a pivotal role in profitability. Among these assets, the roof
How Long Does a Copper Roof Last?
Investing in a copper roof is not just any decision for a homeowner—it’s a commitment to style, durability, and creating a lasting legacy. The warm
How long does a steel roof last?
In the realm of home durability, the roof stands as a silent sentinel, tasked with weathering storms and seasonal shifts. Picture-perfect blue skies and gusty,
How Long Does a Membrane Roof Last?
When it comes to selecting roofing materials for your property, understanding the durability and lifespan of each option is crucial. Membrane roofing, a popular choice
How Long Does Tile Roof Underlayment Last?
The underlayment beneath a tile roof plays a critical, yet often overlooked role, acting as a quiet protector against the weather. However, this unsung hero
How Long Does a Modified Bitumen Roof Last?
Protecting the very investment that your house or commercial property represents is crucial, and the roof stands as the first line of defense against the
How Long do Cement Roof Tiles Last?
Discover the impressive longevity of cement roof tiles and why they might be the perfect choice for your home or project. If you’re wondering how
How Long Does a Cedar Roof Last?
Cedar shingles, as an unconventional choice in roofing materials, offer an aesthetic appeal that is distinct and visually striking. Whether it’s a historical residence, a
How Long Does a Flat Roof Last?
Thinking about setting up a new flat roof or refurbishing the current one? Curious about the longevity of a flat roof? It’s crucial to know
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last?
Rubber roofs are durable for a variety of reasons. Rubber roof such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is engineered to withstand hail, ozone, ultraviolet
How Long Does a Slate Roof Last?
A robust roof can provide a sense of safety and assurance in your dwelling, offering tranquility to you and your loved ones. This is why
How Long Does a Asphalt Roof Last
Did you recently install a new asphalt shingle roof? Curious about its lifespan? As homeowners, it’s perfectly reasonable to want your brand-new roof to last
How Long Does TPO Roof Last?
TPO roofs are renowned for their exceptional features, with roof longevity being a standout trait. When professionally installed, a TPO roof can last anywhere from
How long Does Tile Roof Last in Columbus Ohio?
Are you considering the replacement of your existing tile roof, or perhaps contemplating the installation of a new one? One of the most common questions