WHAT IS THE REPAIRABILITY RATING OF A RUBBER ROOF?
If you choose to install a rubber or “elastomeric” roof coating over your existing building, you’ll see a major benefit that you may not expect: repairability. Sure, we talk about making repairs to your flat roof coating quite a bit on this blog, but many people are still unfamiliar with the benefit of rubber roof repairability.
Issues are Easy to Detect
The first step in making any repair is detecting that a repair is necessary. On a roofing system with lots of seams, fasteners, special flashings, and layers, it can be very difficult to identify issues. You’re never exactly sure where the problem is until you start removing parts of the roof. This uncertainty comes from the fact that there can be many sources of leaks. However, on a rubber roof that has been liquid-applied, you can locate these issues very easily. If there’s a leak, look right above it and you’ll see a slit or hole. You don’t have to look around and wonder – it’s right there.
Issues are Easy to Fix
Once you have located a problem, you can easily fix it with a rag and a tube of caulk. Use the rag to wipe down and clean the area, and then apply the caulk liberally to the area. Smoothen the caulk with your finger or a putty knife, then wipe it off on the rage. Done! Rubber roof repairability is truly one of the best features of a liquid applied system. They take very little time, equipment, or expertise to fix. Even if you didn’t install the rubber roof coating yourself, you will be able to repair it.
Issues are Fixed for Good
Finally, once you make a repair, the roof is basically as good as new. If you have a silicone roof coating on your roof and happen to encounter a leak, then you will fix it with a silicone caulk. This caulk is made with the same chemistry as the coating and they will bond together and perform for years to come. You don’t have to worry about patches losing their hold on the roof or screws backing out. Once you make a repair, it’s over.
Conclusion
Rubber roof repairability is an oft-overlooked benefit of commercial roof coatings. The ease, quickness, and effectiveness of repairs you can make to your rubber roof coating have to be considered when evaluating roof replacement options. If you have questions or would like some instruction on repairing your rubber roof, contact us today.
