Information about Liquid Roof and Its Benefits
Here you can learn a bit about liquid roof and its benefits for new and existing construction. Let’s start with the basics.
What Is It?
Liquid roof is a liquefied version of a synthetic rubber typically referred to as EPDM. The letters EPDM stand for ethylene, propylene, diene monomer and M class respectfully.
Before the liquefied version came on to the market, rolls of the rubber were used for waterproofing roofs. The liquids are easier to apply. They fill up cracks and crevices. They can go where the sheets could not go.
Why Choose the Liquids?
Ease of application is one reason. The foil is more difficult to apply correctly. You could easily end up with bumps, overlaps and uneven spots that contribute to water pooling. Water can seep under the rubber sheets and cause the roofs to leak. So, while the rolls were the best choice for waterproofing at one time, there are better choices today.
The liquids have more uses. They can be used on RV roofs and other vehicles. They can be applied to a wide range of roofing materials including metal, fiberglass and wood. Through the use of an undercoating, the liquids can be applied to built-up and asphalt-based coatings. Other reasons to choose the liquids are listed in some detail below.
Liquid Roof and Its Benefits for New Construction
For new building construction, applying the liquids increases the lifespan of caulks and sealants used to waterproof around flashing, vents, HVAC units and other protrusion points. If the new roofs are made of steel or aluminum, the liquids prevent rust and effectively extend the life of the roofing material.
If you choose white, which is the base color typically provided; the coating reduces heat within the building and also helps to protect the surrounding environment from excessive heat. Black and dark colored roofing materials are partially to blame for the high temperatures seen in southern cities during the summertime. By reducing heat within the building, the coating helps reduce air conditioning costs.
Liquid Roof and Its Benefits for Existing Construction
When applied over the entire area, the coating provides the same benefits for existing roofs as it does for new ones. It can also help to reduce noise from rain falling on metal roofs.
For roof leaks and general waterproofing, the roof coatings are the least expensive and most effective choice. So, there you have the facts about liquid roof and its benefits. It’s a money-saving environmentally friendly alternative.
Rubber EPDM roofing is the only way to go. The old hot tar and gavrel roofs were notorious for leaking, and very difficult to fix. The rubber roofs are available in various thicknesses that translate into various warranty periods. If you intend to stay in the house for the long term, buy the best you can afford. A twenty year residential warranty is minimal with the norm being thirty years or longer. Have the roof installed by a reputable contractor and save all of your warranty documents as many of them are trannsferable to a new owner. Good luck with your roofing project.