The Lifespan of Rubber Roofs: What You Should Know

Rubber roofing membranes are really popular choices for flat commercial roofs and are known for their performance at an affordable cost. Before choosing one for your property, it’s important to understand the lifespan of rubber roofs. Generally, rubber roofs can last from 20 to 50 years. 

But there is one more twist here. The exact lifespan of a rubber roof depends on some other factors including the type of membrane you choose. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local roofers in Pittsburgh, PA. In this complete guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about the lifespan of rubber roofs. 

What Are The Different Types Of Rubber Roofs And Their Lifespan?

So, as we mentioned already, different rubber roof types have different lifespans. Here, we will discuss common rubber roofs and how long they generally last. 

#1 EPDM 

Lifespan: 40 to 50 years

The first rubber roofing material that you will find on many flat commercial roofs is (ethylene propylene diene monomer). 

This rubber roofing membrane is quite popular as it provides impressive durability and a long lifespan. EPDM roofs generally last for 40 to 50 years when installed and maintained properly. Some installations have even exceeded 50 years, reflecting their durability across various climates. 

EPDM roofs can be generally found in two colors: black and white. They also provide decent insulation and can be an excellent choice if you live in a hot and humid climate. 

#2 TPO 

Lifespan: 15 to 30 years

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofs generally have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years. This variation is largely because of the quality of the material and the installation process. 

While TPO roofs are known for their energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness, they may require more frequent repairs compared to EPDM. UV rays and exposure to extreme weather conditions can affect the longevity of TPO roofs. This makes regular maintenance especially important for maintaining its overall expected lifespan.

#3 PVC 

Lifespan: 20 to 30 years

Another popular rubber roofing material we have on our list is PVC roofs. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, can last for around 30 years when installed correctly and maintained well. This rubber roofing membrane is known for its outstanding waterproofing properties. PVC roofs are also resistant to chemicals and fire. 

However, they are quite expensive compared to TPO and may not last as long as EPDM. Again, the exact lifespan of this rubber roofing material also depends on some factors that we will discuss later in the article.

#4 Rubber Shingles

Lifespan: 30 to 50 years

While rubber roofing shingles cost more than asphalt shingles, they can replicate more expensive roofing materials like clay, wood shakes, metal, and slate. 

Rubber shingles can generally last anywhere between 30 to 50 years. This rubber roofing material provides an attractive alternative to traditional shingles while providing nice durability against weather conditions.

Regular maintenance and routine roof inspections can help you prevent problems such as mold growth and fading and maintain the roof’s lifespan.

Also Read: TPO. VS. EPDM Roofs: Which Is Best For Your Commercial Building?

What Are The Factors That Affect The Lifespan Of Rubber Roofs?

Below are a few important things that affect the exact lifespan of a rubber roof. 

#1 Installation Quality

First and foremost is installation quality. Proper installation is very important for a long-lasting roof. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we understand the importance of high-quality roofing services, and we are committed to providing professional roof installation. 

We are stressing the importance of the correct installation because it directly impacts the lifespan of your roof. Improper installations like misaligned seams or poorly adhered membranes can reduce the lifespan and durability of your roofing membrane. 

#2 Thickness Of The Material

The thickness of your rubber roof is another very important thing to think about. When we talk about rubber roofs, their thickness is measured in millimeters or mils. 

A thicker rubber roof will last longer and protect your building better than a thinner roofing membrane. 

For example, most building owners choose 60-mil EPDM because it lasts longer than 45-mil. The extra thickness helps the roof stand strong against everyday wear and tear.

#3 Environmental Factors

The weather in your area plays a big role in how long your rubber roof will last. 

Conditions like heavy rain, snow, and strong winds can affect your roof over time. 

Even though rubber roofs are made to handle tough weather, they still need proper care to stay strong. That's why it’s important for building owners to think about their local weather when choosing a roof type. 

The good news is that materials like EPDM and TPO are made specially to deal with these weather challenges.

#4 Maintenance Practices

Taking care of your rubber roof is very important for making it last longer. Building owners should check their roofs regularly to catch any problems early. 

Small issues can turn into big problems if not fixed right away. That's why we always suggest getting your roof checked by a professional a few times each year.

Regular checkups help find and fix small problems before they become serious issues that could hurt your roof's lifespan.

#5 Roof Traffic

How often people walk on your roof can really affect how long it lasts, as foot traffic increases the chance of damage. This is especially important for buildings where people need to go on the roof often to fix equipment or do maintenance work. 

The good news is that you can install special walking paths made of tougher material. These paths protect the rubber roof and help it last longer, even in areas where people need to walk regularly.

How To Maintain The Lifespan Of A Rubber Roof

Taking good care of your rubber roof is very important if you want it to last a long time. The average lifespan of a rubber roofing membrane can be decades if you maintain it properly. Let's look at some simple things you can do to keep your rubber roofing membrane in great shape for many years to come.

#1 Regular Inspections

We recommend checking your roof twice every year, generally at the beginning of spring and fall. During these checks, look carefully for any damage, like cracks or places where the roof is coming apart at the seams. 

As mentioned above, finding and fixing small problems early helps extend your rubber membrane roof’s lifespan.

#2 Keep It Clean

The rubber roofing membrane lifespan is longer when you keep it clean. Regular cleaning stops dirt and mold from building up, which helps extend your rubber roof life expectancy. 

Try to clean your roof a few times each year. Use soft brushes or mops with mild soap to clean it properly. Remember, harsh chemicals can hurt your roof, so always use gentle cleaning products.

#3 Quick Repairs

When you notice any marks, scratches, or small holes in your roof, fix them right away. The lifespan of a rubber roof depends a lot on how quickly you take care of these small problems. 

There are special repair kits made just for rubber roofs that you can use. Taking care of small issues stops them from becoming big, expensive problems later.

#4 Avoid Harmful Chemicals

Some things can really hurt your rubber roof lifespan. As we already mentioned, don't use strong pressure washers or harsh cleaning chemicals on your roof. 

These might seem like they clean better, but they can actually damage your roof. Before using them, always check if the cleaning products you are choosing are safe for rubber roofs.

#5 Get Professional Help

Sometimes, it's best to get help from professionals who know all about rubber roofs. They have the right tools and knowledge to take care of your roof properly. 

Professional maintenance is especially important if you're not comfortable climbing up on the roof yourself or if you notice any serious problems.

Get Professional Roofing Services In Pennsylvania

If you are looking for professional roof installations in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania, we are here to assist you. 

From professional inspection to complete replacement, our team has the right experience to take care of your TPO roof. We also work on all common roofing materials, including metal, slate, EPDM, TPO, PVC, shingles, and more. 

To schedule your free roof inspection or for a no-obligation discussion about your roof, give us a call at (412) 353-5660 today!

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