Can I Apply My Own Liquid EPDM?

Posted on July 24, 2020 by Greg Kaz.

RV roof maintenance is a standard part of RV ownership. Therefore, almost every time someone asks whether they can handle roofing repairs or maintenance, the answer is going to be a resounding “yes”. Of course, it’s not just about whether you can do the work, but whether you can do it right. There are a number of products on the market in the liquid EPDM family, and most come either in a roll-on or spray-on format that is easy for anyone with basic handy skills, or anyone who has ever painted in their lifetime.

Choose Your Product and Gather Your Tools

Now that you know you can do the work yourself, it’s time to shop around and find the right liquid EPDM roof coating solution. Since most products are relatively similar, you will want to primarily focus on brand quality and reputation, as well as the specific application process. For example, some people specifically search for a roll-on product because they aren’t comfortable with the spray-on idea. Ultimately, it’s about getting the product that best suits your needs.

You will also want to check out available RV roof maintenance and repair kits, which will include the roof coating that you need, along with primer, seam tape, rollers, brushes, gloves, cleaner, and more. You’ll have everything that you need to do the job in a single package, which can save you the hassle of buying everything separately.

If you decide on a product that doesn’t come in a kit, take notes on the list above for items that you will need to apply the new liquid EPDM coating. Brushes and rollers will be required for liquid products so that you can apply them evenly across the roof surface. You will also want to invest in gloves to protect yourself, RV roof cleaner, and anything else that you need for the job. Check the instructions on the sealer to make sure that you have all the tools that you need.

Prep for Best Results

Anyone that has ever taken on a resealing job will tell you that the products often dry quickly, so you won’t want to waste a lot of time when you actually start the resealing or recoating process. That means that you will need to make sure that you plan ahead to set yourself up for success. Make sure that the roof is clean, free of debris, and that any damage has been repaired ahead of time. Then, when you go to apply the liquid EPDM, you can just roll it on and go, and you’ll be done in no time at all.

If you have any silicone, tar, or other materials on the roof, remove those completely before you start the recoating process. You may or may not need a primer for your application, depending on the product that you choose. Give your RV roof a good wash and dry, and then you will be ready to apply the new liquid EPDM coating. A little prep work really can go a long way.

The Bottom Line

Most of the RV maintenance issues that are required of owners are things that they can do on their own. Unlike passenger cars that often require a lot of dealership service calls, RVs are made for those who like to take care of themselves, and that includes offering easy DIY maintenance solutions. You’ll have to recoat your roof every three to five years, depending on the liquid EPDM that you choose, so there is no better time than now to learn how to do it right the first time.

How Liquid EPDM Will Transform Your RV

Posted on February 20, 2018 by Greg Kaz.

If you own an RV, then you know that the need for upkeep is an ongoing chore. Any time an RV has any sort of damage, it can become a big headache if you don’t take care of it right away. And while you could just drop it off at the dealership and let them take care of it, that often means that your RV will be unavailable for weeks – and who has time for that? There are many DIY things you can do to make your RV tough and durable – and liquid EPDM is one of them.

What is Liquid EPDM?

Liquid EPDM is a synthetic rubber material that comes in a liquid form like paint. It is applied onto the roof of an RV, and once it cures, it creates a durable coating that lasts for up to ten years. It is easy to apply and can be done in a weekend if you get good weather for the curing process. But why would you want to?

The Benefits of Liquid EPDM for Your RV

The key benefit of liquid EPDM for your RV is that you never have to worry about your roof for the next decade. Some of the characteristics of EPDM include:

Virtually weather-proof: This material resists damage from hail or water, and also reflects UV rays away so it prevents fading and weakening over time.
Energy efficient: By reflecting away UV rays, this material makes your RV more energy efficient. You’ll have an easier time staying cool when you’re camping out.
Puncture-resistant: If your RV roof is rubber, you don’t have to worry about tree limbs poking a hole in your roof. This material creates a puncture-resistant layer that makes your rubber roof extremely durable.
Insulating: Simply because you’ve added another layer to the roof of your RV, you’ve got another layer of insulation. But EPDM is actually a very insulating material that helps keep the “good air” inside where it belongs.
Flame-retardant: Liquid EPDM is flame retardant, so you don’t have to worry about spreading fire should any campfires get out of control nearby.

And once again, don’t forget about the durability! One coat of liquid EPDM on your RV roof will create a durable barrier for about ten years, and you can easily patch it with more EPDM if damage causes the layer to become cracked.

Easy Application for Any Weekend Warrior

Applying liquid EPDM to your RV roof is easy. You simply clean the roof, roll the liquid on like a paint, and let it cure. This material can be applied to any type of RV roof, including metal, rubber, or polymer, and generally only takes a couple of days to cure. All you need is a paint roller and a couple of days of dry, sunny weather. You can also have professionals apply this material to your RV if you prefer not to DIY. This is a great way to turn your RV into a more durable accessory for the road.

5 Reasons You Should Repair Roof Leaks with Liquid EPDM Rubber

Posted on June 8, 2017 by Greg Kaz.

Has your roof taken some damage?

Are you able to tell because it’s leaking?

If so, don’t worry. As you’re about to see, Liquid EPDM Rubber is perfect for solving that problem.

An Affordable Response to a Potentially Costly Problem

The moment a leak happens, most people immediately think about the small fortune they’re going to need to spend in order to fix it. Sure, you want to repair roof leaks immediately, but it can still be an extremely aggravating to imagine the price it’s going to cost.

Fortunately, EPDM is probably the most affordable way to repair roof leaks. It’s largely made from recycled materials for one thing, so along with being environmentally friendly, it’s also very budget-friendly, too.

EPDM Is Easy to Apply

This goes along with our last point. Obviously, a lot of the reason many home repairs cost so much is that you’re paying for labor, which can quickly add up.

We already told you it was affordable, but this also relates to how easy it is to apply. EPDM can repair roof leaks in no time. So whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, your bank account will hardly know.

Once the Repair Is Done, It’s Done for Good

You’ve probably heard horror stories about people who repaired a roof leak only to find out the job wasn’t complete the next time it rained. Aside from the obvious problem, this means more time and money doing it all over again.

If you want to avoid this common issue when it’s time to repair roof leaks, use EPDM for the job.

EPDM is extremely durable. Studies have been done on roofs treated with this amazing material and even after 10, 20 or 30 years, it’s working as well as it did the first day it was applied.

Repairs That Work in Any Temperature

Another problem with repairing roof leaks is that you absolutely must choose the right material for the job. Amongst other things, this entails considering the climate in which the home is located.

Down south, the blistering sun can make quick work of a lesser material. Up north, the winter cold and constant snow can beat on a roofing material until it finally gives way.

EPDM has been tested in the most extreme climates and doesn’t budge. While it cures best in temperatures of 55 degrees or above, it will still work in colder temperatures; you’ll just need to wait a bit longer.

You Can Apply EPDM to Any Surface

Finally, another issue you’ll run into with some liquid roof repair products is that you can only apply it to a horizontal surface. This is not the case with EPDM. The liquid can be used on damage to horizontal or vertical sides of your roof. Again, because it cures so quickly, you don’t have to worry about it spilling off before setting.

Hopefully, these five reasons have made it clear that Liquid EPDM Rubber is the best option to repair roof leaks no matter where they occur. Don’t take any chances when your roof is damaged; use Liquid EPDM Rubber.

Liquid EPDM Is the Easiest Way to Repair RV Roof Leaks

Posted on April 6, 2017 by Greg Kaz.

RV trips are a lot of fun. You can go virtually anywhere the road will take you and bring all the comforts of home with you.

However, a leak will quickly put an end to your good time, which is why you should bring liquid EPDM with you and understand how to do the following.

Before You Begin

While it’s tempting to simply go up on your roof and start applying liquid EPDM to anywhere you see RV roof leaks, take an extra moment before you get started. It’s vital that you make sure you’re getting the area responsible the first time.

Unfortunately, this won’t always be obvious. RV roof leaks can be sneaky. You might follow the leak from inside the RV and think you know exactly where it is, but that might only be because the water gets inside your roof and then runs to the corner before it’s visible to you.

Even after you’ve found the area you believe to be the source, there could be other RV roof leaks in the area, so check around.

Note: this is why we recommend applying EPDM before any RV roof leaks ever even occur. If you simply cover the entire roof, they’re just not going to happen.

Do Some Cleaning

Next, you want to make sure you sufficiently clean the area where the leak happened. It doesn’t need to look brand new, but you can’t leave any dust or debris. Otherwise, the seal you’re trying to complete with your liquid EPDM will be faulty and you could end up with another leak immediately.

Apply Your Liquid EPDM to the RV Roof Leaks

You’re now ready to begin. If you’re using EPDM that comes in a spray bottle, you can simply aim and press the nozzle. The container will tell you how much is necessary, but, obviously, you want to make sure the entire area is sufficiently covered.

If you have a bigger job, you’ll want the kind that is applied like paint. This will require you to mix it beforehand. Again, the container will tell you how much water to use.

Then, just use a brush or roller and apply it to the area. You’ll notice that it already begins curing the second it hits the surface. This is also why you want to move quickly, so the liquid doesn’t begin curing too quickly.

Wait a Day

Ideally, you want to give your EPDM a day to cure. As long as it’s not going to rain, you can simply leave your RV in place while you explore the city or hang out at the RV park. If you’re at home, even better. Just don’t use the RV for about a day.

Before you drive it again, check the roof of your RV to ensure the EPDM has completely cured. It does best in temperatures of 55 degrees or higher, but this liquid will work regardless of the climate. You’ll simply find it takes a little more time.

That’s all it takes. This simple process will repair any leak in your RV quickly and without costing you a fortune. So, before your next trip, make sure you bring some with you, just in case.

Understanding Rubber Roof Coatings and Their Benefits

Posted on November 16, 2016 by Greg Kaz.

Repairing roof leaks, or even replacing the entire roof is something that every homeowner will need to face eventually. While investing in a high-quality roofing system at the outset will help stave that time off, it will happen sooner or later. When it does, it pays to know the right repair or replacement option. You can certainly repair or replace your roof with the existing materials, but more and more people are turning to rubber roof coatings for their many benefits. What should you know?

What Are Rubber Roof Coatings?

If you’re like many homeowners in the US, you might think that rubber roof coatings are really only applicable for businesses with flat roofs, or those with cement underlayment that needs to be protected from ponding water. While these coatings certainly do play a significant role in commercial roofing projects, they are also good fits for residential needs.

Really, rubber roof coatings are exactly what they sound like. They consist of a bucket of liquid rubber, which is usually mixed with a catalyst to incite the curing process, and then applied to the roof of your home. Depending on the actual product you’re using, you may need anywhere from one coat to three coats or more. Liquid Rubber allows you to apply just a single coat, saving you time and money.

Are Rubber Roof Coatings Really Waterproof?

Yes, rubber roof coatings are waterproof, although the time it takes for them to become so varies from one product to another. Liquid Rubber roofing is waterproof as soon as it is applied, but others on the market are not. Liquid Rubber is actually a liquidized version of EPDM, the same type of rubber that you’ll find under the hood of your car, in the shape of radiator hoses, or sealing water away inside your refrigerator, in the form of gaskets. It is high-performing, and 100% waterproof as soon as it is applied. Water-based systems cannot offer that.

What Types of Roof Can Benefit from Rubber Coatings?

Really, just about any type of residential roof can benefit from rubber roof coatings. However, depending on the type of roofing material yours uses, you may need to apply a coat of primer before applying the rubber roofing. Metal roofs with the exception of sanded stainless steel will not need primer, but conventional asphalt shingle roofs will need primer applied. You will also need to ensure that any rips, cuts or tears are cut away so that there are no cracks in the primer prior to applying the Liquid Rubber.

While there are plenty of competing rubber roof coatings on the market, only Liquid Roof offers immediate waterproofing. In addition, it is the only product that can be applied with only a single coat, saving you both time and money. In fact, it is so simple to apply that many homeowners choose to do it themselves and save money rather than hiring a professional.