Rubber Roof Repair Durango CO

Rubber Roof Repair

How do I repair a commercial rubber roof?

Repairing a commercial rubber roof, also known as EPDM, usually involves cleaning the area, patching holes or tears with manufacturer-approved materials, and addressing any seams that have pulled apart. For roofs with widespread issues but a solid deck, applying a liquid-applied roof coating system can often restore the roof and extend its life, preventing the need for a full tear-off.

Water leaks, cracked or peeling roof membrane, high energy bills.

You might be seeing water stains on the ceiling inside your building, or you might notice puddles of water staying on your roof surface long after it rains. Sometimes, you can see the rubber membrane itself cracking, shrinking, or pulling away at the seams or around vents and pipes. If your energy bills are going up, a failing roof could be letting heat escape in winter or heat in during summer, making your HVAC system work harder.

Ignored rubber roof damage leads to bigger bills.

When a rubber roof starts to fail, it won't get better on its own. Small leaks can turn into big ones, damaging insulation, deck materials, and even the building's structure. Wet insulation loses its R-value, meaning it stops insulating properly, driving up your energy costs. If water gets to the roof deck, it can rot or rust, leading to much more expensive repairs or a full roof replacement. Waiting to fix these issues costs more in the long run because the damage spreads and becomes harder to address.

Targeted repair or a full restoration coating system.

First, we inspect your rubber roof to figure out what's causing the problem. We look for cracks, punctures, open seams, and areas where water is pooling. We also check the condition of the insulation and the roof deck. If the damage is minor and isolated, we can often make spot repairs using materials designed for EPDM roofs. This involves cleaning the area, priming it, and applying patches or sealants.

For roofs with more widespread issues, but where the underlying structure and insulation are still in good shape, a Conklin-trained contractor can apply a liquid-applied EPDM roof coating system. This process involves:

1. Cleaning the roof: We power wash the entire roof surface to remove dirt, debris, and any loose materials. This helps the coating stick properly.
2. Making repairs: We address all existing leaks, seal open seams, patch holes, and reinforce weak areas using fabric and specialized sealants.
3. Applying the base coat: A primer might be applied if needed, followed by a durable base coat that adheres tightly to the prepared rubber membrane.
4. Applying the top coat: One or more layers of a reflective acrylic top coat are then applied. These coatings form a seamless, waterproof barrier across the entire roof.

This coating system not only stops leaks but also reflects a lot of the sun's UV rays, which can lower your building's cooling costs. It extends the life of your existing roof, often for 15-20 years, without the disruption and cost of a tear-off. However, if the insulation is saturated with water, or the roof deck is severely compromised, a coating system might not be the right fit. In those cases, a full roof replacement may be necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a rubber roof coating a good idea?

Yes, if your rubber roof is in decent shape but showing signs of wear like minor leaks or surface cracks, a coating system is often a very good idea. It can stop leaks, reflect heat, and add many years to your roof's life at a fraction of the cost of replacing it. A Conklin roof coating also creates a seamless membrane, which is a big advantage over traditional rubber roofs with many seams that can eventually fail.

How long does a rubber roof coating last?

A properly installed Conklin-trained rubber roof coating system can last 15 to 20 years, sometimes longer. The exact lifespan depends on the specific product used, how well it's maintained, and the climate. These systems are also renewable, meaning you can often apply another top coat after the warranty period to extend the roof's life even further.

When is a rubber roof too far gone for a coating?

A rubber roof is generally too far gone for a coating if the insulation beneath the membrane is saturated with water over a large area, or if the roof deck is severely damaged (rotted wood, heavily rusted metal). If the rubber membrane itself is extensively torn, missing in large sections, or has structural issues, a coating might not be a viable long-term solution. An on-site inspection by a Conklin-trained contractor is needed to make this call.

If your commercial rubber roof is showing signs of age or leaking, don't wait. Call us today at (309) 303-3128 to schedule an on-site inspection. Our Conklin-trained contractors will assess your roof's condition and provide a clear, honest recommendation for repair or restoration. You can also visit our contact page to get in touch.