EPDM: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer
EPDM rubber roofs are single-ply membranes, which means there is only one ply of roofing material and not multiple plies laminated together. EPDM is one of the most common types of low-slope roofing materials because it is relatively inexpensive and fairly clean to work with when compared to conventional built-up roofs. EPDM doesn’t have the odors and fumes that accompany built-up roofs which appeals to many property owners and managers.
EPDM roofs have varying lifespans that depend on numerous criteria. These include environmental conditions such as what type of building (factory or church), how much foot traffic the roof gets, how much water remains on the roof after a rain, and how long it takes for that water to evaporate. Properly installed EPDM rubber roofs should last between 12 and 25 years.
TPO: Thermoplastic Olefin or Polyolefin
TPO membranes are single-ply roof membranes constructed from ethylene propylene rubber. They are designed to combine the durability of EPDM rubber with the proven performance of hot-air weldable seams. They have been tested as having excellent resistance to ozone and algae, and are environmentally friendly and safe to install.
TPO is highly resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures with good flexibility to allow for building movement. Properly installed TPO roof systems have service lives ranging from about 10 to 20 years, depending on the type of installation. Full removal of the existing roof, the amount of slope the roof has, weather conditions, as well as several other criteria contribute to the longevity of a roof's service life. Typically, if you remove an old roof down to the deck before installing a new one, the new roof will last longer.
Manufactured Slate and Shake Tiles
If your business currently uses residential roofing materials like slate or shakes, manufactured tiles may be the perfect replacement. Manufactured slate and shake tiles look like slate stone and natural wood shakes, but are made from steel or a durable polymer composite.
While natural slate can be brittle and easily damaged by hail or foot traffic, these synthetic options are incredibly durable and easy to install. The cost is also much less than natural slate.
Wood shakes can suffer from mold and mildew, but that isn't a problem for it's synthetic counterpart. In addition, these products are freeze/thaw, fire and wind resistant.
Rapid Roofing offers manufactured slate and shake tiles in a variety of materials, styles and colors.
Flat Roof Repairs
When your commercial roof is leaking you need an honest, professional opinion. We pride ourselves on helping you understand your roofing issues and fixing them for a fair price. The proper repair can go a long way to extend the life of your roof.
Roof Maintenance Plan
Proper maintenance of a flat roof is not optional. Let us help you extend the life of your roof system with a commercial roof maintenance plan custom-tailored for your unique needs. A well-maintained roof can last many years past its initial warranty period, and most roof system warranties have roofing maintenance guidelines that must be followed in order to keep the warranty in effect.
