Useful Information About The Different Types Of Roofs

Posted on April 17, 2013 by admin

Roofs provide protection against dangerous that various animals and nature pose and for this reason, they are a necessity for all structures. They are essential for all structures, which range from stadia, multi-storied buildings, halls to cathedrals because they provide this protection by covering their top most areas. However, when it comes to their application, human dwellings are the ones that mostly have them.

Although in most countries roofs serve to provide protection against snow, wind, and rain, some people use them for various other purposes. For example, people in the Middle East use them for milling their grain, for gardening purposes and for the provision of additional space. Roofs provide insulation and hence, they serve to prevent water from seeping through because they are weatherproof in countries that receive heavy rains.

In order to prevent the roof damage that occurs owing to weather conditions, some people use roofs to conserve their gardens. Although sunlight is free, roofs provide protection against it when people have verandahs around their houses. In order to enjoy the dual advantages that open weather and light offer, many people nowadays prefer to use fiber sheets that are transparent in nature.

Many people have to live with the existing construction and the roofs that it has and try to understand their benefits the way the original designer constructed them when they move into newly owned or rented houses. However, they can consider various important factors when they are designing the roofs before they embark on the task of building if they are building their own houses.

People can get the best roofs for their homes by using a little creativity and knowledge when they want to renovate buildings that they buy or existing houses. Nowadays, special roofing materials , which are extremely attractive because they are non-traditional and new , are easily available in a wide variety of styles, sizes, designs and shapes thanks to the numerous positive changes in the roofing industry.

People can only realize that they have numerous options when they think of changing their roofs. Pitched and flat roofs were the only available options are few years ago but thanks to the aforementioned changes, the market nowadays offers various roof designs and a wide variety of roofing materials, and in effect, it provides people with a multitude of options to choose from.

Pitched, shell, saltbox, and slate roofs are some of the most popular types of roofs that are available in the market today. Pitched roofs, whose slope varies depending on the climatic conditions of the country in which they are manufactured and sold, are available in symmetrical shapes. They have steel trusses that have rolled wood or steel sections. They are steeped in countries that have heavy snowfall.

Shell roofs, which are specially designed to meet all the architectural needs by meeting all the specifications, are common in places that require people to cover larger spaces such as libraries or theatres. Saltbox roofs are common in houses that are single storied on one side and have second stories on the other because they have two asymmetrical slopes. Slate roofs on the other hand are very durable.

For product information of Roof Repairing and roof leaking and ordering Visit http://www.epdmcoatings.com or the facebook page http://www.facebook.com/liquidepdm or call them at 855-281-0940.

How to Maintain and Repair Your Metal Roof

Posted on February 12, 2013 by admin

With proper maintenance and timely repairs, metal roofs can last a very long time. These systems are designed to be long-lasting. Here are some maintenance and repair suggestions that will keep your roof looking like new, year after year.

Inspect and Clean Regularly:

Inspect your roof at regular intervals throughout the year. Seasonal inspections are a good idea to save your roofs from leaks if you live in an area where there are four distinct seasons. You should also inspect after storms. Hail, wind, snow and even severe rain can damage your roofing.

You should clean your roof at least once a year. You may only need to clean once a year to make sure that gutters are clear of leaves and other debris that could cause water to pool or ice dams to form. You can use soap and water to clean most metal roofing systems, but check the manufacturer’s specifications to be sure.

Ensure that Different Metals Do Not Touch:

If different kinds of metal touch and become wet, they will corrode. For example, copper pipes projecting through sheet metal will eventually rust at the point of contact. There are products on the market to prevent this kind of contact.

Repair Scratches:

Minor scratches might not seem like a big problem. But if they are not repaired, water will gather in the uneven surface and rusting will occur. To repair scratches, pour a small amount of mineral spirits on a clean cloth and use it to remove any debris from the scratches. After the area dries, take a small paintbrush and cover the scratched area with an appropriate color of metal touch-up paint. You can follow up with a clear coat to provide additional protection. Summer season is the best time to fix roof leaks problems and there are products available in the market like liquid EPDM Rubber coatings and Elastomeric coatings.

Remove Rust:

Rusty spots should be sanded down first using a scrubbing cleanser and then light sandpaper. Do not use a wire brush. Once the rusted area is smooth, apply a metal primer. After the primer dries, use your touchup paint to improve the appearance and follow up with a clear coat if desired.

Repair Dents:

Dents may be popped out if you have access to the underside of the roof. Otherwise, you may need to call a professional. Repairing dents in metal roofing calls for the use of a stud welder. It’s not a job for the average do-it-yourselfer.

Consider a Protective Elastomeric Coating:

Elastomeric coatings can further increase the lifespan of the roofing system. Today’s Elastomeric roof coatings are available in an assortment of colors. They provide waterproofing, help to reduce sounds and can add to the beauty of your roof. You may not have to do all of these things, but the more time you spend protecting your roof form roof leaks, the longer it will last.

For product information or ordering Visit their site at http://www.epdmcoatings.com or their facebook page http://www.facebook.com/liquidepdm or call them at 855-281-0940.

Flat Roofing Materials Compared

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

There are three basic types of flat roofing materials, although there are variations within the three categories that allow building owners to have more choices. Whether your building is new and this will be its first roof or you are replacing older roofing material, here are the three main categories you will be able to consider. There are inherent advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Built-Up:

Built-up bituminous roofs have been the standard for many years. They are still relatively popular primarily because they are inexpensive.

Built-up bituminous roofing is created using layers of hot tar, gravel, a smooth river stone ballast and tar paper or fiberglass membranes. Other than the lower cost, the advantages include fire resistance and some people think the appearance is more attractive.

There are several disadvantages. The material is very heavy. The underlying joints of the roof may need to be strengthened in order to install this type.

The installation itself is messy and smelly. It is not a do-it-yourself job for the building owner.
Once installed, it is hard to find leaks in the material and repairing leaks can be difficult. As time goes by, the gravel can break loose and clog the gutters. This choice is not recommended for buildings that are currently occupied.

Modified Bitumen:

Modified bitumen sheeting has a mineral-based surface to convey the fire resistant benefits of built-up bituminous with less weight. The sheeting consists of a single layer that is rolled onto the roof. The sheeting may be attached using a “torch-down” system, although newer modified bitumen rolls have a peel-off backing that sticks to the existing surface. The peel-and-stick installation can be a DIY project for the building owner.

One advantage of modified bitumen has to do with the light colored minerals that are embedded in the sheets. The minerals reflect heat, which can convey energy savings in areas where summer air conditioning costs are high. This is also an affordable alternative.

The main disadvantage of the torch-down system is the risk of fire. The process is not recommended for buildings that are currently occupied. The sheets are not the most resistant to scuffs and tears. Modified bitumen is considered less durable than the next type.

EPDM:

EPDM is a type of synthetic rubber. It resembles an inner tube but has been engineered to resist damage from sunlight. EPDM sheets are available and can be anchored with fasteners, glued on or ballasted with stones. Liquid EPDM rubber is also available for waterproofing or coating existing roofs to extend the lifespan of the roof.

The advantages include easy installation and high durability. Rubber is inherently accompanied by a reduced risk of leaking. If leaks do occur, they are easy to locate and repair. There may also be a sound-reduction advantage.

The only disadvantage may be heat absorption depending on the color selected. Lighter colors are recommended for warm climates but may cost more.

Some building owners feel that the cost is a disadvantage. EPDM does cost more than other roofing materials. But because it is more durable and typically lasts longer, EPDM may cost less in the long run.

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.

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.

How to Maintain Your RV EPDM Roof

Posted on October 23, 2012 by admin

With proper care and maintenance, your RV EPDM roof can last for 20 years or more. That’s pretty much equivalent to the life of the vehicle itself. One of the benefits of EPDM Rubber roofing materials is that the care and maintenance required is minimal. Regular cleaning is the first step.

Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the roof at least four times per year. The cleaner used should be one that is specifically designed for EPDM roofing and is free of petroleum distillates.

Products containing petroleum distillates, whether they are designed for cleaning or protecting, will cause the rubber to swell and loosen. There are many chemicals that fall under the category. The easiest way to tell for sure that the cleaner you are using does not contain any of the chemicals is to look for one that states on the label “free of petroleum distillates, safe for use on EPDM Coatings materials.”

Cleaning is a relatively simple matter, but you should keep your safety in mind. If you are going to be getting up on the roof, you should be on your hands and knees to reduce your risk of falling.

The first step is to rinse the roof thoroughly with plain water at a relatively high pressure. Any branches or sharp objects should be removed by hand, if possible. While EPDM is tear resistant, sharp objects can cause scratches when they are pushed along the surface. Eventually the scratches can become tears.

Once all debris has been rinsed away, you will need to take a medium bristle brush, a bucket of safe cleanser diluted with water and get up on the roof. You need only scrub in areas where you see stains or dirt.

Keep your hose with you so that you can rinse while you are cleaning. Start in the corner farthest away from your exit point and work backwards to minimize the amount of time you spend on the wet surface.

After the roof is cleaned, you can use an EPDM protectant if you like. The protectant should be specifically designed for EPDM roofing, not for other types of materials. Some EPDM manufacturers also sell special protectants. While using the protectant is not essential, it may extend the life of the roof and reduce your need to restore or repair the roofing material.

Finally, proper care of your EPDM roof includes parking it in an area where the roof is protected as much as possible. Don’t park around fruit trees. The citric acid can deteriorate the material in between cleanings.

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/

The Best Roof Coatings for Your RV Roof Maintenance

Posted on September 5, 2012 by admin

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle’s roof, the first step is to make an inspection at least once a year. That could mean getting out your ladder. Be careful. Remember that most accidents occur at home.
An annual power washing is usually recommended. If you have been to the beach, take the time to wash the salt and sand off of your vehicle on your way home. Salt and sand are corrosive. The best coatings for your RV roof maintenance help to protect against this kind of corrosion, but cleanliness is still important.

The best coatings for your RV roof maintenance are the ones that last the longest. Most experts agree that the longest lasting sealants are the ones made of EPDM rubber.

EPDM is a material often used in new construction of the vehicles. The manufacturers apply the rubberized membranes to the metal roofs to protect them from the elements, to help prevent rusting and to provide some protection against debris.

It is often debris though that causes the damage. Rapid temperature changes hail and even sudden afternoon showers can cause damage too.
The least expensive coating alternative and the one used most commonly is an acrylic water-based product. While that might seem like an inexpensive alternative, it can be costly in the long run. The temperature extremes and other threats mentioned above can partially or totally destroy an acrylic coating, leaving the metal exposed.

You might not know that the metal is exposed until you see a leak or do annual maintenance. By then, there could be rust and damage to internal insulation and other materials. You should be able to see how costly the whole thing can become.

If you choose the best coatings for your RV roof repair, you could save money in the long run. If you’re smart, you’ll choose to apply the coating when the vehicle is new as a protective measure. You’ll just have to check to make sure that you are buying a brand that is compatible with the materials used in the construction of your vehicle.

Not only does a liquid rubber coating provide benefits that include waterproofing, protection against damage from flying debris and increased lifespan of the vehicle reduced risk of leaking. The coating improves the cosmetic appearance and often helps to keep the interior of the vehicle cooler during hot summer months. There may also be some soundproofing advantages when you choose the best coatings for your liquid roof maintenance.

The Best Roof Coatings for Your RV Roof Maintenance

Posted on July 30, 2012 by webmaster

An annual power washing is usually recommended. If you have been to the beach, take the time to wash the salt and sand off of your vehicle on your way home. Salt and sand are corrosive. The best coatings for your RV roof maintenance help to protect against this kind of corrosion, but cleanliness is still important.

The best coatings for your RV roof maintenance are the ones that last the longest. Most experts agree that the longest lasting sealants are the ones made of EPDM rubber.

It is often debris though that causes the damage. Rapid temperature changes hail and even sudden afternoon showers can cause damage too.

The least expensive coating alternative and the one used most commonly is an acrylic water-based product. While that might seem like an inexpensive alternative, it can be costly in the long run. The temperature extremes and other threats mentioned above can partially or totally destroy an acrylic coating, leaving the metal exposed.