Can A Rubber Roof Be Repaired?

Rubber roofing is one of the most popularly used flat roof materials in the country today. One of the biggest advantages of a rubber roof is its waterproof properties. However, rubber roofing is not without its drawbacks. Many of the issues that may arise from a rubber roof are caused by incorrect or improper installation. In short, can a rubber roof be repaired? Yes! Here is what you need to know about rubber roofing.

Leaking Rubber Roof Repair

Although rubber roofing is coveted for its waterproof characteristics, a rubber roof may begin to leak for several reasons, such as:

• The membrane is punctured or damaged
• The rubber roof experiences shrinkage
• The rubber roof was improperly installed
• The wrinkles extending into roof seams

Like many other things in life, the best way to approach the issue is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Similarly, rather than letting the problem get out of hand, once a leak is noticed, even if it is only a small patch of moisture on the wall, the issue should be immediately addressed. Additionally, routinely cleaning debris off the roof and frequent roof inspections can help address these issues early on. To fix a leaking rubber roof, there are a few options. If the extent of the damage is severe, the entire roof may need to be completely relaid. However, in the event that the issue was caught on early enough, placing a patch or re-installing the flashing may be a suitable solution. 

Maintenance Is Key

As previously mentioned, by regularly maintaining a rubber roof, one mitigates the need for major repairs. All roofs are exposed to the elements and do not necessarily have time to dry out between storms.

This could potentially lead to mold and mildew forming on a rubber roof. While rubber roofing does not by nature promote the growth of mold or mildew, unlike other materials, such as wood, mold and mildew still pose as a potential issue. While mold and mildew will not structurally inhibit rubber roofing, it is far from aesthetically pleasing.

Once mold or mildew has completely appeared on your rooftop, it can become challenging to eliminate. However, maintenance and prevention are pivotal. Routinely check your rubber roof after a storm for any mold or mildew that may have formed.

If you do notice a small spot, it can be quickly cleaned with some vinegar and a sponge. Maintaining your rubber roof will help prevent major repairs.

What Is A Patch Repair?

If you notice that the membrane of the rubber roof has been punctured or damaged, you may opt for a simple patch repair. To conduct a patch repair, one should first clean the area and free it of any present debris.

From there, utilize a rubber roof cleaner to ensure that the patch properly adheres to the roof’s surface. After the area has been cleared out and cleaned, measure out the patch, giving at 50 mm of membrane outside the damaged area from all directions.

When cutting out the patch, be sure to round out the edges. Rounding out the patch’s edges will prevent it from getting caught by any foot traffic; this would cause the membrane to lift. Once the patch has been measured and cut out, place the patch and ensure that is fully sealed.

When in doubt, contact the rubber roofing professionals.