The Causes of Ice Dams and How to Prevent Them

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

Ice dams occur due to uneven temperatures on a sloped roof. The greater the slope of the roof, the more damage an ice dam can do. The process is usually set into action by snow, although an ice storm could also be the trigger.

What happens is that snow or ice on the higher portions of the roof melts. The melt or water flows down the slope until it reaches a point on the roof where the temperature is below freezing. Often, the point that is below freezing is an overhang where there is little or no warming from radiation, convection or conduction of heat.

When the water reaches the lower temperature, it freezes. Water from above continues to flow down the slope and remains liquid until it reaches the ice. Over time, the result is an ice dam. It is a dam in that it traps water behind it. The water can only freeze if it reaches the colder portion of the roof.

Icicles typically form below the dam as some melting occurs during the day. Seeing icicles along the edge of a roof can be a sign that an ice dam has formed.

The damage that occurs to the building is mainly from the water, although the weight of the ice can also cause damage if the overhang on which it rests is not strong enough to support the weight. The water behind the dam searches for an outlet. It starts to work its way through the roofing material and into the insulation.

Once inside the building, the water spreads through the insulation and down the interior walls. It can also spread across the ceiling causing stains and damage to dry wall or other materials.

Ice dams can be prevented in the planning stages of a newly constructed roof. Additional insulation can be used to make sure that the ceiling is airtight. Warm air travels through the ceiling and into the attic space. The warm air rises, causing the higher portions of the roof to be warmer than the lower portions.

Reducing heat loss prevents snow melt. The roof must be strong enough to support the extra weight of the snow. In areas where a large amount of snow falls on a regular basis, there are usually requirements concerning the load that a roof can bear.

Snow rakes can also be used to remove snow and prevent ice dams. Caution is required when using the snow rakes to avoid personal injury and prevent damage to the roofing materials.

There are products like elastomeric coatings, liquid rubber and liquid roof that are one the best products in the market to save your roof from damage.

For product information or ordering visit EPDM Coatings or call them at 855-281-0940.

The Effects of Environment on your Roof

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

The effects of environment on your roof are responsible for how it changes in appearance as the years go by. Just as your skin ages, so does your roof. One thing that ages both your skin and your roof is the sun.

The sun can cause the temperature on the roof to be 50-75 degrees higher than the temperature of the surrounding air. The heat alone can cause some roofing materials to blister and crack. It’s the main source of roof leaks.

In addition to the heat, the sun is a source of UV radiation. UV radiation has been shown to degrade the asphalt layers that make up your shingles. A protective layer of colored granules is used to reduce this effect. Liquid EPDM Rubber coatings are the best option to coat your roof shingles. Without that kind of roof coating the shingles would degrade very quickly. The use of the granules has added years to the lifespan of modern roofs.

Sudden changes in the roof temperature also speed the shingle aging process and roof starts leaking. Thunderstorms are common occurrences on hot days in many parts of the world. The temperature on the roof rises gradually as it is heated by the sun. When the rain starts to fall on the roof, the temperature can drop as much as 60 degrees almost instantly.

The wooden decking beneath the shingles expands with the heat and then contracts suddenly with the quick cooling. This places a strain on the shingles. As with other effects of environment on your roof, the aging process is relatively slow. But you have these sudden changes in temperature many times during a year. This is one of the reasons that shingles have a limited lifespan.

Moisture from rain and snow also has a negative effect on your shingles unrelated to the temperature change. Moisture causes wooden roof decking to expand. From the perspective of the shingles, the deck is moving. The movement loosens the shingles.

The effects of environment are worsened because of pollution and acid rain. Pollution hits the roof along with raindrops. Smoke from car exhausts, factories and other sources lands on the roof. The pollution causes the color of the shingles to darken, sometimes only in spots that are noticeable from the driveway.

Acid rain degrades the asphalt in shingles. The acid eats away at all parts of your roof gradually.

None of these changes occur suddenly. It may seem sudden if you get up on a ladder to clean the gutters and suddenly notice curling, blisters, cracks or stains. There is only so much you can do to minimize the effects of environment on your roof. Some aging is inevitable.

Summer is the best time to fix your roof leaks problems. You can get rid from such roofing problems by selecting the best roofing products like liquid epdm, liquid rubber and liquid roof coatings for your roof. Liquid Rubber is the only Liquid EPDM product in the world. Liquid roof coatings are also the best option for your RV Roof Repair problems.

For product information or ordering visit EPDM Coatings or call them at 855-281-0940.

A Brief History of Roofing Materials

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

A complete history of roofing materials would start in the Stone Age. Popular modern material has not been around quite that long but even clay roof tiles have been in use for thousands of years.

Of course the manufacturing processes have changed and improved. People are no longer limited by the location of the material. That was a major factor to consider before present-day shipping methods were introduced.

Clay tiles are popular in some areas and for some architectural designs. The tiles are more expensive than other options but they are long-lasting. Shingles are a far more popular choice.

The history of modern shingles is not nearly as long as that of clay. Wood shingles or shakers were used until insurance companies started refusing to insure homes and businesses with roofs covered by them.

The first composite roof material was used in the 1840s. They are referred to as composites because they are composed of two or more substances, rather than a single material. Modern shingles are composites but the first composite roofs bore little resemblance to the ones we use today. Also there are lots of roofing materials like Liquid EPDM Coatings, liquid roof and liquid rubber coatings are available in the market for fixing roof leaks.

The substances used in the earliest composites were felt or woven fabric, pine tar and sand. Improvements were made by saturating the fabric with asphalt and substances such as sand, crushed limestone or talc. Coal tar came next in the history of roofing materials.

Coal tar is a byproduct of coal manufacturing processes. It was not until the introduction of gas lighting for city sidewalks that enough of the byproduct was generated to find an application in the roof industry.

The coal tar was mixed with fine gravel and rolls of felt were saturated with it. The rolled material was then attached to roofs. Asphalt shingles soon replaced the rolled material.

Henry M. Reynolds made a significant contribution to the history of roofing materials. He came up with the concept of shaping the earlier asphalt-coated roof fabrics into individual shingles in 1903. Reynolds was a roofer and manufacturer. The first shingles he produced were hand cut with a sharp knife.

In 1914, F.C. Overby began adding crushed granules of slate to add weight to the shingles and keep them from blowing off the roof. Roller-die cutting machines were perfected the following year making the mass-production of shingles more practical. Most of the changes that have occurred since that time have been decorative, except for the use of fiber glass to reinforce the felt fabric, which occurred in the 1970s.

That is a very brief history of roofing materials that are very helpful for repairing roof leaks. Liquid EPDM Rubber and Liquid Roof coatings are the best roofing products that will give you cost effective solution for your roofing problems. Although there are other choices, composite shingles are still the most popular for homes.

For product information or ordering visit EPDM Coatings or call them at 855-281-0940.

Liquid EPDM Coatings are aftermarket roof sealants

Posted on December 3, 2012 by admin

A number of aftermarket roof sealants are available, including urethanes, acrylics and liquid rubber. Liquid EPDM rubber is by far the most durable of the sealants available and has the widest range of applications.

It is more water resistant than other rubbers, including neoprene. It is more resistant to swelling and has a wider range of acceptable temperatures. It can be applied directly to practically any roofing material other than asphalt and can even be used on wood that has been primed.

Liquids have an obvious advantage over sheets. Sheets have seams. Seam sealers eventually deteriorate and water gets through the seams and under the sheeting.

Liquid EPDM can be used on top of neoprene, although some pre-treatment of the surface is required. Just knowing that the liquid rubber is recommended for use on top of the other type of rubber should be an indication that the material is more durable.

Liquid EPDM can also be used on top of polyurethane after a light sanding. It is somewhat surprising that urethanes are still used as aftermarket roof sealants. It is known that the structure is damaged by UV light and that discoloration occurs relatively quickly. Anyone who has made the mistake of using urethane as a roof sealant should consider applying liquid EPDM to truly protect the roof.

The liquids can also be used to seal existing leaks. They are self-adhering and fill up tiny fractures that let water through. It is a good idea to use a thick coat and cover the entire surface instead of attempting to only cover the leaky area.

When covering the entire roof, the liquid rubber reduces heat buildup. Not only does the roof stay cooler, but the interior of the building or the vehicle will also stay cooler. This benefit may reduce heating costs and keep the occupants more comfortable.

Liquid EPDM has become the most popular choice for RV roofs, because of all the above-mentioned advantages. It extends the lifespan of the roof and requires less maintenance. It lasts up to three times longer than any other aftermarket RV roof sealant and also reduces noise from rain.

As far as price goes, most sealants are similar in price. Depending on where you buy, EPDM may be a little more expensive, but because primers and additional coats are not usually necessary, and because it lasts so much longer, owners who choose this aftermarket roof sealant save money in the long run.

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN USING LIQUID RUBBER

Posted on November 1, 2012 by admin

1) Catalyst must be added prior to use. Scrape sides of container with a Liquid rubber spatula to ensure catalyst distribution.
2) Xylene or Mineral Spirits Solvents may be added to adjust viscosity or for clean-up.
3) Easiest way to spread the rubber on a flat surface is to broadcast material with a rubber squeegee then roll using a short nap roller. Product is self leveling. A flat spatula can be used for small areas.
4) Product has a long pot life after catalyst has been added; 4-6 hrs. depending on temperature.
5) Only temperature affects the rate of cure. Relative humidity has no influence.
6) Product is hydrophobic (sheds water) so substrate to be coated must be dry initially. The uncured rubber can get wet or even have ponding water, with only a cosmetic effect after application, and will still cure.
7) The rubber will penetrate into porous substrates such as wood and poured concrete. A primer/sealer should precede application of rubber.
8) The chemical reaction of the catalyzed rubber can be arrested by freezing the material. This can keep material usable for weeks or months. To use again simply allow it to reach room temperature and apply.

Liquid EPDM and its benefits

Posted on September 26, 2012 by admin

The EPDM roofing association which started in 2002 has always focused on educating contractors and the roofing community on the characteristics and benefits of EPDM membranes. Their studies have concluded that EPDM’s service live is over 20 years. Arguably the most important benefit of an EPDM system is the membrane’s flexibility. A growing number of contractors are specializing in EPDM installation, due to its low callbacks and insurance premiums. EPDM roofing systems also feature low maintenance, easy repair options and low annualized costs.
With Liquid EPDM there is No cutting, No gluing and No Seaming! EPDM Liquid Rubber® totally eliminates the problems encountered with single ply materials because it produces a seamless membrane which is all of the same chemistry. So what do we gain by using EPDM Liquid Rubber®? It eliminates seam failures and eliminates shrinkage of the single ply rubber. It also prevents further chalking particularly with white EPDM and it extends the life of a roof. Liquid Rubber®, available through Epdmcoatings.com is the only EPDM in Liquid form. This product is a high solids solution of sheet EPDM Rubber. It converts from liquid to solid elastomer via a unique free radical cure mechanism which works at temperatures of 55° F and higher. EPDM Liquid Rubber® can be applied directly on many types of substrates that have solid, stable, non-porous and uniform surfaces such as flat roofs. For most substrates, primers are not necessary. As an example, some types of substrates that can be coated with EPDM Liquid Rubber® without a primer are:
• EPDM Rubber Membrane on flat or sloped Roofs
• Weathered Steel Siding
• Outstanding barrier for salt-water environments
• Weathered Fiberglass
• Weathered standing seam and corrugated metal roofs
• Weathered Vinyl, PVC and Polycarbonate plastic
• Foam insulation for pipe
• Cast Concrete foundations
Liquid Rubber® may be applied at any temperature that permits it being spread onto the surface. It will waterproof immediately upon application. The solvent will evaporate at a rate governed by temperature but will not be affected by relative humidity. Exposure to freezing temperatures before cure has taken place will not damage the film. The time necessary to reach cure should not be a concern as this process will occur automatically. Exposure to sunlight will accelerate the curing process. The final film properties of the cured membrane will be the same regardless of the time required to achieve cure. EPDM Liquid Rubber® will provide long term protection even under extreme exposure conditions. It is resistant to temps of 300 degrees F and minus 62 F. Liquid rubber is water resistant even in an uncured state. An unexpected rain shower shortly after application will not wash it off. The slow cure and non-polar nature of EPDM Liquid Rubber® gives it outstanding surface wetting properties. The product does not fill cracks and crevices but will produce an even film penetrating even the smallest surface irregularities. When EPDM Liquid Rubber® is applied over porous surfaces such as poured concrete, pinholes will appear on the surface as the material slowly displaces the air in the pores. This surface wetting feature enables the product to be applied in a SINGLE COAT and the still results in complete film integrity. EPDM Liquid Rubber® can be applied to hot surfaces encountered during the summer. The solvent in the system will flash off rapidly but the polymer will remain soft long enough to permit overlapping even after 1-2 hours. The cure rate is still controlled even at temps up to 120 degrees. The product can, therefore, be applied on the hottest day.

The controlled cure rate also results in a longer pot life, giving the applicator more than adequate length of time (4-6 hours depending on temperatures) to use the mixed quantity of material. Adhesion will increase over time. Polar surfaces such as metal, concrete and wood result in stronger adhesion than non-polar surfaces such as asphalts. Most weathered surfaces including single ply and thermoplastic membranes will have enough of a surface profile to anchor the EPDM Liquid Rubber®
By itself, the EPDM Liquid Rubber® membrane will exhibit the characteristics of its EPDM chemistry i.e. U.V. ozone stability, excellent ponding water resistance and long-term retention of flexibility. EPDM Liquid Rubber® applied over generally sound singly ply EPDM can extend its life another 20 years. The useful life of metal roofs will also benefit greatly when EPDM Liquid Rubber® is applied. It is recommended that a corrosion inhibitive primer first be applied to areas where severe rusting has occurred. EPDM Liquid Rubber® does not contain any corrosion inhibiting pigments but it is such an effective moisture barrier that it can be applied directly over light rust without a primer. For more information contact epdmcoatings.com at 866-311-3736 or visit their website at http://www.epdmcoatings.com. They also have a blog filled with discussions from customers as well as valuable information on the product at http://liquidroof.blogspot.com/

Application of liquid rubber coatings

Posted on April 25, 2012 by webmaster

Application of Liquid Rubber Coatings Starts with Preparing the Surface

The application of liquid rubber coatings is easiest when the surface is flat, clean and smooth. As is the case with all painting jobs, the most time-consuming part could be cleaning and repairing the surface.

How to clean the surface depends on the material. For metal roofs, sweeping and/or washing may be all that is necessary. You should make sure there is no debris on the surface, because any debris will show through the coating.

Concrete floors should be as smooth as possible. If cracks or holes are present in any material, fill them with a non-silicone based caulking. The rubber would fill the hole, but a dent would still be visible. Depending on the depth of the hole, this could cause a variety of problems in the future.

For some older roofing materials, it is a good idea to reinforce the surface with butyl tape and polyester fabric. For example, if there are gaps, tears or other defects, you would want to correct those problems. Although the coating does not adhere to all materials, it does adhere to fabric.

Depending on the surface to be covered, a catalyst coating may be needed. For example, the application of liquid rubber coatings to existing asphalt-based roofs requires a pre-coating with an elastomeric catalyst. Follow the manufacturer’s directions concerning what type of pre-coating to use.

Generally speaking, latex house paint is not an acceptable solution.

You will need a squeegee, a roller and a paint brush to apply the coating, once the surface has been prepared. The thickness usually recommended for the coating is 20-mil. It may be necessary to do a spreading rate calculation to get an idea of how that thickness can be achieved. A good estimate for a flat smooth surface is 40 feet per gallon. The application of liquid rubber coatings to uneven surfaces will require more.

The product needs to be spread as evenly as possible. You want to avoid making it thicker in some spots and thinner in other areas. The squeegee is used initially to spread the material. It is recommended to follow the use of the squeegee with a roller to promote more even distribution and get rid of any air bubbles that may be trapped within the liquid.

The first 2 gallons usually take one or two hours to apply. If you have already determined how many gallons you need, this should give you an idea of how long the application of liquid rubber coatings will take. You should be able to get the job done in a day.

Technical Aspects of EPDM

Posted on January 31, 2012 by webmaster

Elastomeric coatings are roofing applied in a viscous state. It has elastic properties, and can stretch in the summer time heat and then return to their original shape without damage.

Elastomeric coatings usually contain polymeric materials, such as acrylic, and a white pigment, such as titanium dioxide, to make them opaque and reflective. An elastomeric coating is applied thicker than paint. An elastomeric coating can be used on virtually any substrate including asphalt built-up roofing, concrete roofing, metal roofing, modified bitumen roofing, polyurethane foam roofing and single ply roofing.

Liquid Roof and Liquid Rubber need temperatures above 55 degrees to cure. The temps can go below 55 but the product will not begin curing again until the temp’s go above 55 degrees.

Chemical Resistance-Cured EPDM rubber is resistant to acids, alkalis and polar solvents Cure system-Two-component Peroxide initiated Heat Resistance 302 degrees F (150 degrees C)

Physical Properties:

The physical properties of Liquid EPDM Liquid Rubber(R) are typical of its EPDM chemistry. The outstanding characteristics include:

Extreme high resistance to penetration of water, Ultra Violet and Ozone stable, excellent long term aging properties.
Very broad temperature tolerance range (from 300 degrees F to minus 62 degrees F). Acid and alkali resistant Withstands ponding water even when not cured

Spreading Rate:

A 20 mil dry film will result when liquid is applied at the rate of 42 sq. ft per gallon on a smooth surface.

A rate of 45 sq. ft allows for average roughness.
Weight/gallon 8 pounds (mixed)
Tensile 680 psi
Elongation 180-200%
Brittle Point -62 degrees F

Cure Mechanism: This rate is determined by temperature and the availability of oxygen. Oxygen is necessary to activate the catalyst, which promotes peroxide decomposition at lower temperatures. The cure mechanism in EPDM Liquid Rubber will vary from active to inactive determined by temperature. Broad day-night temperature swings in spring and fall will not compromise the final physical properties of the EPDM Liquid Rubber membrane.

Technical Properties of EPDM

Polymer Properties

Specific Gravity 0.87
ColorAvailable white or black

Vulcanizate Properties

Hardness, Durometer 30A to 90A
Tensile Strength, Mpa (psi)6.9 to 20.7 (1000-3000)
Elongation, %100-600
Compression Set B, %20-60 *
Useful Temperature Range-50 to 150ºC (-60 to 300ºF)
Brittle Point-50ºC (-60ºF) **
Volume Resistivity, ohm-cm1016 to 1017
Dielectric Strength,v/mil500-1000
Dielectric Constant2.2 to 3.0
Tear Resistance Fair to Good
Abrasion Resistance Good to Excellent
Resilience Fair to Good
Adhesion to MetalFair

Environmental Resistances

Ozone – Excellent

Oxygen – Excellent

Oils and Gasoline – Poor

Water – Excellent

Steam – Excellent

Oxygenated Solvents – Good to Excellent

Halogenated Solvents – Fair to Poor

Phosphate Fluids – Good to Excellent

Alkali’s – Good to Excellent

Acids, Dilute – Excellent

Acids, Concentrated – Good to Excellent

Electrical Properties – Excellent

Features

Advantages Electrical Properties
Low Temperature Flexibility
Resistance to Weathering, Water, Steam, Heat
Cost

Limitations

Hydrocarbon resistance
Temperature above 177ºC (350ºF)
Flame Resistance

Since EPDM Liquid Rubber Coatings cures by chemical reaction, a single heavy application will be preferable to multiple thin coats. A second coat will bond to a previous film but that bond will not be as strong as the internal bond within each layer. If a second coat is applied before the first has thoroughly cured, some wrinkling may result as the first coat absorbs solvent and swells. This will, however, recover as the solvent evaporates. It is generally recommended that only a single coat be applied over non-porous surfaces, the thickness of which can be varied as desired. Thicker films will take longer to cure through. Asphalt coatings and asphalt built-up roofs are considered unstable substrates and therefore, not recommended for coating directly with Liquid Rubber EPDM. EPDM COATINGS do carry a specific elastomeric which with a two coat application gives you a 10 year warranty.

Liquid Rubber is designed to recoat structurally sound existing roof and protective materials. They are also best for RV Roof Repair. They should not be used in place of roofing membranes”.

The following are recommended substrates to coat:

Metal – Coated or Galvanized Steel

Weathered Aluminum
Weathered Copper

EPDM Rubber membrane
Concrete (except foot traffic surfaces)
Urethane Foam
Primed Wood
Fiberglass
PVC Sheet and Pipe
Acrylic Sheet
Sponge Rubber insulation

Do Not use Liquid Roof or Liquid Rubber on the following substrates:

Built up asphalt roofs
Asphalt shingles
Modified asphalt roll roofing
Stainless steel
Glass
Silicone caulk
Foot traffic surfaces
Hypalon Membrane

Liquid Roof Application

Posted on January 31, 2012 by webmaster

Liquid Roof Application is best with a squeegee and a fine nap roller. Before applying, mix the pre-measured catalyst by following label directions. A single application is preferable to multiple coats. Touchups may be applied as desired after initial film has cured and surface is first wiped with solvent. To insure its effectiveness it must be applied at a 20 mil layer . Apply with brush around flashings and edges using long, slow strokes. On flat surfaces, material can be poured, spread with a squeegee and then evened out with a short nap roller. The Product will level itself when sufficient material has been applied. Liquid EPDM Rubber Roof should not be applied on cream color ALPHA rubber.

Adhesion

Adhesion will increase over time. Polar surfaces such as metal, concrete and wood result in stronger adhesion than non-polar surfaces such as asphalt and single ply EPDM sheet. Most weathered surfaces including single ply and thermoplastic membranes will have enough of a surface profile to anchor the Liquid EPDM Rubber. Liquid EPDM Rubber Roof has proven itself superior to acrylics, urethanes, and other elastomers as a moisture barrier. Due to ultraviolet rays and weather conditions, sealants become brittle and lose adhesion, resulting in leaks. One application of Liquid EPDM Rubber Roof will provide an air and watertight seal that will outlast the original sealant.

Durability:

By itself, the Liquid EPDM Rubber Roof membrane will exhibit the characteristics of its EPDM chemistry, i.e. U.V. and ozone stability, excellent pounding water resistance and long-term retention of flexibility. However, since it is always applied to an existing surface, the condition of that surface will determine overall life expectancy.
Liquid EPDM Rubber applied over generally sound single ply EPDM can extend its life another 20 years, The useful life of metal roofs also benefit greatly when Liquid EPDM Rubber Roof is applied. BUR systems often have existing problems such as delaminating between layers, buckling and stress cracking. These are further aggravated by wet insulation which often results in severe corrosion and weakening of the metal supporting deck. Projecting a life expectancy for the EPDM Liquid Rubber membrane ultimately comes down to a case by case determination. When the EPDM Rubber membrane is compared to urethanes, acrylics and other elastomers in accelerated weathering and heat aging tests, the EPDM Rubber shows itself to be superior.
Liquid EPDM Roof Coatings are aftermarket products designed to extend life, seal leaks, provide a heat reflective or aesthetic function over existing roof surfaces. Now you too can enjoy the many benefits of a weather-tight EPDM Rubber Roof. Liquid EPDM Roof is a unique form of EPDM rubber. As a liquid, it can conform to any shape of roof, flashing, or protrusion, vertical or horizontal, and can be applied easily with a paintbrush or roller on your roof. Roof repair with Liquid Epdm Roof is now very easy.

Surface Preparation:

Liquid EPDM Roof/Liquid Rubber/Liquid Rubber may be applied on roof decks, gutters, structural steel, air conditioner enclosures, cooling towers, galvanized steel, unit heater flues, smoke stacks and chimneys, fiberglass and non porous masonry surfaces. Surface to be coated should be clean, dry and structurally sound. Fasten loose areas with adhesive (contact cement) or pop rivets. Oil or wax must be completely removed.

All surfaces to be coated should be clean and dry. Remove peeling paint and brittle caulking. Heavy build ups of asphalt roof cement should also be removed. Tighten any loose fasteners and replace those which are severely corroded. Repair or replace roof panels damaged by storms. Remove heavy rust with abrasive discs or wire brushes. Power washes all surfaces to be coated and allow drying thoroughly. Caulk all gaps wider than 1/16 inch which are not expansion and contraction slip surfaces.

Remove loose portions of existing coatings and brittle caulk with scraper and wire brush before using Liquid EPDM. Whatever still has good adhesion may remain to be re-coated.

Rusty or pitted metal should be wire brushed to remove loose oxide. Tightly adhering corrosion may be recoated. Asphalt based aluminum coatings should be removed as much as possible by wire brush or abrasive disc. Roof cement should be removed and replaced with butyl caulk where necessary.

Repair torn rubber by re-gluing loose areas with contact cement. Coat exposed edges with contact cement to prevent solvent absorption from Liquid EPDM Roof/Liquid EPDM Rubber. A rubber patch may be applied over torn area if desired. Remove chalk from white rubber membrane by brushing with a detergent solution followed by a water rinse or working surface with a stiff brush. Smooth metal or plastic surfaces should be roughed up to improve adhesion of Liquid Roof/Liquid Rubber A de-glossing solvent may work on some plastics.

For Large Commercial Projects: Airless or Air Atomized spraying, Airless equipment needs only one hose from pump to gun but must generate 3500-4000 psi pressure and is limited in the length of hose which can be used because of high pressure drops. Air atomized equipment requires two hoses to the gun making it more cumbersome to maneuver plus the addition of a compressor.

Liquid Roof is the only liquid EPDM Rubber product currently on the market.

Equipment specifications:

PUMP -capable of delivering 3-4 gal/min. at 3500-4000 psi
HOSE if 3/8 inch ID max. permissible length is 150 feet
when using .019 tip

if 1/2 inch ID max. permissible length is 200 feet
when using .21 tip

Liquid Rubber For Ponds and Plywood Application

Posted on January 25, 2012 by webmaster

Liquid Rubber Fix pond leaks. Waterproofing Fish Pond, Leaks Repair, pond liner, Fountains, & Reflecting Pools with Liquid EPDM Rubber Concrete which has not been modified with special additives must be protected by impervious coatings when used for containing water. Unprotected concrete will absorb water which can then leach out soluble constituents and cause spalling when frozen. The combination of outdoor exposure plus water immersion creates a demanding environment for a coating. It must have high resistance to water penetration, be flexible enough to withstand extremes in temperature, and not be affected by ultra violet radiation from the sun. Liquid EPDM rubber coatings possess all this characteristics and are also non toxic to fish.

Preparation. Drain water and clean surface dirt while concrete is still wet. High pressure water spray and/or scouring surface with a wire brush may be necessary in fish ponds. If algae are present treat with an algaecide or 25% solution of bleach, let stand for one hour and rise well. Allow one week (rain free) for concrete to dry out.

If you are using this in Koi tanks in immersion conditions, make sure you have 2 coats of Liquid EPDM and that you have a full cure. To do so, let cure in air (without water) for about 1 week in 70 deg F or more ). Soak and rinse out the tank several times with water before making this ready for the Koi. The soaking and rinsing is to ensure you get out any residue solvents after the curing process. You will of course need to prepare the water for the Koy in whatever normal way you prepare Koi tanks/ponds.

Whether your pond is concrete, plastic or rubber lined. EPDM Liquid Rubber can fix your leaks troubles. Plastic pond liners have a tendency to crack or to tear. There are products such at tapes and caulks that will eventually wear. EPDM Liquid Rubber, on the will not. For concrete ponds the easiest solution for leaks are to cover them with a rubber liner but they are tricky to install. Liquid Rubber Coatings provides an easy one-time solution to your pond leak regardless of if they are made of rubber, concrete or plastic. And yes, it is safe for fish!

Liquid Rubber for Coating Plywood:
Liquid Rubber Coatings has been used directly over plywood to make a finished roof in situations where expediency and minimal cost were the primary considerations. Although this procedure results in a weaker roof structure, water-tightness can be achieved if the application is performed carefully. The joint between sheets should be positioned directly over a roof truss and securely fastened to prevent warping. Next, to seal the pores, coat plywood with an oil based primer. Allow an overnight cure. Seal the joint by bridging it with a 6″ wide polyester fabric strip. Apply a light coat of EPDM rubber over the joint, lay fabric into wet rubber and smooth out wrinkles. Complete job by applying a liberal coat of Liquid Rubber over entire roof surface, being especially careful to completely cover the fabric over the joint without skips or pinholes. Using an oil base primer on the wood considerably improves the appearance of a one-coat application of Liquid Rubber.

Liquid Rubber is excellent for Wood Surfaces Repair Product; Liquid Rubber can be applied to wood. We recommend first applying a primer coat using an oil base primer and then the Liquid Rubber after the primer has dried. Liquid Rubber can be colored using “universal” colorants available at any paint store. You can add up to one cup per gallon of paint thinner for easier handling when going over wood. Liquid Rubber is slippery when there is only a fine mist of water on its surface. Silicone and oil-based materials are considered unstable and should be avoided.