Rubber Shingle Roofing for Energy Efficiency and Durability

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Rubber shingle roofing is a game-changer for homeowners looking to boost their home's energy efficiency and durability. With a lifespan of up to 50 years, rubber shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

Rubber shingles are made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly option. They can also withstand extreme temperatures, from -40°C to 80°C, without losing their shape or integrity.

One of the main benefits of rubber shingle roofing is its ability to reflect solar rays, reducing heat gain in the summer and energy consumption in the winter. This can lead to significant savings on energy bills.

Take a look at this: Cleaning an Rv Rubber Roof

Cost and Benefits

Rubber shingle roofing resides in the upper mid-range of the roofing cost spectrum, with prices ranging from $8.50 to $14.50 per square foot.

The upfront cost is more than twice the cost of asphalt shingles, but rubber shingles will last two to three times as long, providing between 20 to 40 years of service lifespan.

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You can expect to pay an additional $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot when removing and disposing of more than one layer of old roofing material.

The average price for a new rubber shingle roof is $7,500, while new metal and flat roofs cost $14,500 and $8,225 respectively.

Rubber shingles are also fire resistant and can withstand wind uplift up to 110 mph and most hail stones (up to 2 inches in diameter) will bounce off the shingles rather than breaking them.

Why Now?

So, you're wondering why now is the perfect time to consider the cost and benefits of a particular investment? The answer lies in the current market trends, which are creating a unique opportunity for growth.

The current low-interest rates are making it more affordable to take on debt, which can be a major factor in achieving long-term financial goals. This is especially true for those who are just starting out and need to borrow money to get on their feet.

Credit: youtube.com, Scarcity, Trade-offs, and Cost/Benefit Analysis

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is also driving up costs, but it's a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize the environment and their health. As more people become aware of the importance of living sustainably, this trend is likely to continue.

However, it's worth noting that the costs of sustainable products can be higher upfront, but they often pay for themselves in the long run through energy savings and reduced waste.

Energy Efficient Roofs

Rubber shingles are impact resistant and more energy-efficient than other shingle materials.

They're made from up to 95% recycled materials, including rubber, plastic, and slate dust.

You can choose from a variety of colors and styles, so you don't have to stick with the typical dark gray.

In warm climates, white-on-black rubber roofing can help increase energy efficiency by reflecting UV rays and absorbing less heat.

Investing in a rubber roof is a great option for homeowners who want a durable and eco-friendly choice.

Pros and Cons

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Rubber roofing has its share of benefits and drawbacks. One of the biggest advantages is its impact resistance, able to withstand large hailstones without sustaining damage.

Rubber shingles are also incredibly durable, resistant to cracking, curling, and fading over time. They're even able to mimic the look of other materials like cedar shake, slate, and high-grade asphalt shingles.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, rubber shingles are also incredibly resilient in windy conditions, able to withstand gusts of up to 160 mph. Some types of rubber shingles are even designed to absorb ultraviolet rays, protecting your roof from damage.

However, there are some downsides to consider. For one, rubber roofing can be more expensive than conventional asphalt shingles, ranging from $7 to $12 per square foot.

Installation can also be a bit more complicated, requiring a factory-trained and certified contractor to ensure the job is done correctly.

See what others are reading: Hail Damage to Asphalt Shingles

Types and Materials

Rubber shingle roofs offer a budget-friendly option that is durable and eco-friendly. They are generally resistant to rotting, cracking, mold, discoloration, denting, and moisture absorption.

A rubber roof can last between 15 to 30 years, depending on the manufacturer's warranty. Most manufacturers provide at least a thirty-year warranty.

Here are some key benefits of rubber shingle roofs at a glance:

  • Lasts 15 – 30 years.
  • Energy Efficient.
  • Highly Insulating.
  • Low Roof Maintenance.
  • Usually a 30 year manufacturer warranty.

Different Types

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There are several types of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.

Steel is a popular choice for construction due to its strength and durability.

Aluminum is a lightweight material often used in aircraft and automotive applications.

Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity and is commonly used in electrical wiring.

Glass is a versatile material used in windows, mirrors, and other decorative items.

The density of materials can also vary greatly, with some being very light and others extremely heavy.

Readers also liked: Roofing Membrane Types

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a type of rubber roofing membrane that's gaining popularity due to its durability and leak-resistance.

It generally offers a 20-30 year lifespan, making it a long-lasting option for flat roofing systems.

TPO is highly durable and more resistant to leaks than EPDM, which is a major advantage for homeowners and businesses.

One of the downsides of TPO is that its quality can vary depending on who manufactured it, so it's essential to choose a reputable company.

Here are some key benefits of TPO roofing:

  • +20-30 year lifespan
  • +Highly durable
  • +More resistant to leaks than EPDM
  • +Low installation costs

Materials

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Rubber roofing shingles are made from affordable recycled materials, which not only makes them budget-friendly but also eco-friendly.

A rubber roof can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, with most manufacturers providing at least a 30-year warranty.

Rubber roofing shingles are highly insulating, which can help you save on your energy bill.

Rubber shingles are also resistant to rotting, cracking, mold, discoloration, denting, and moisture absorption, making them a low-maintenance option.

Here are some key features of rubber roofing shingles:

Rubber shingles can be designed to look like more expensive roofing materials like wood shakes and slate tiles, giving your curb appeal an upgrade.

Euroshield

Euroshield is a top-notch choice for rubber roofing shingles, offering 100% coverage against up to two inches of hail damage.

This upgraded warranty is a game-changer, setting a new standard in the industry. American Family insurance has even endorsed Euroshield for discounts and credits.

If you're in the market for reliable rubber shingles, Euroshield is definitely worth considering for repairs, new building projects, or total roof replacement.

Why Are Other Materials Better Than Concrete?

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Rubber shingles are more energy-efficient than other shingle materials, making them a great option for homeowners who want to save on energy costs.

Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, can be more prone to damage from extreme weather conditions.

Impact-resistant rubber shingles can withstand heavy rain and strong winds, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Installation and Comparison

Rubber roofing membranes can be installed in three different ways. The glue and sealant method is the most waterproof but takes the longest and is the most expensive. Mechanical fastenings use screws to fasten the membrane down, resulting in a faster installation but potentially leading to leaks.

A ballasted installation, which involves laying stones on top of a loose membrane, is typically the cheapest and fastest option. This method also requires flashing around the edges of the membrane to prevent leaks.

Rubber roofing shingles, on the other hand, are installed in overlapping rows, similar to tiles and asphalt shingles.

How Gets Installed

Black Roof
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Rubber roofing membranes can be installed in three different ways. Each method has its own pros and cons.

The glue and sealant method is the most waterproof, but it takes the longest and is the most expensive. It's worth considering if you want a long-lasting and reliable roof.

The mechanical fastenings method uses screws to fasten the membrane down, making it go much faster. However, it can result in leaks if not done properly.

The ballasted installation method is the cheapest and fastest, but it requires stones to be laid on top of the membrane to hold it in place. This method also requires flashing around the edges to prevent leaks.

Here are the three installation methods compared:

Rubber roofing shingles, on the other hand, get installed in overlapping rows, just like tiles and asphalt shingles. This method is similar to installing traditional shingles, but with the added benefit of being made from rubber.

Cons

Dramatic view of village houses damaged by thunderstorm
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Black mold spots can develop over time on rubber roof shingles, but cleaning your roof regularly will remove them.

Rubber shingles can be prone to blistering if coated with petroleum distillates, which can also allow water to soak into the roof's subframe.

New rubber roofs can have a strong odor that takes time to dissipate, posing a problem for people with respiratory problems.

Roof Maintenance and Durability

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your rubber shingle roof. You should aim to clean your roof 3-4 times a year to keep it in good condition.

Cleaning your roof yourself can be a cost-effective option. To do this, start by sweeping or rinsing off any loose grime.

Using a commercial grade cleanser specific for rubber care can help you maintain your warranty. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and use.

A sponge mop or a soft bristle brush can be used to activate the cleanser. Regularly rinse your mop or brush in a bucket of clean water to prevent dirt from being redeposited onto the roof.

A hose can be used to remove any remaining dirt and debris from the roof. This will help ensure that your roof remains clean and free of dirt and grime.

Consider reading: How to Clean Roof Gutters

Impact Resistant Shingles

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Rubber roofing shingles are particularly known for their exceptional impact resistance, which is a major selling point for many homeowners.

They can withstand harsh weather conditions such as hail, wind, and snow, making them a great choice for areas prone to severe weather.

These shingles are also resistant to fire eruption, which is a huge bonus for safety and peace of mind.

Some manufacturers even offer up to 50 years of warranty, providing homeowners with added protection and security.

This is especially important for DIY roofers who may not have the same level of expertise as professional contractors.

In fact, homeowners can repaint their rubber shingles with acrylic paint every ten years to make them look like new again.

This feature alone makes rubber shingles a more affordable and long-lasting option compared to other shingle types.

It's worth noting that many insurance companies, such as American Family and State Farm, have approved lists of Class 4 impact resistance rubber shingles that meet certain standards.

To qualify for insurance discounts, credit, or rebates, it's essential to choose a shingle from an approved manufacturer.

This ensures that the shingle meets the necessary standards for impact resistance, durability, and safety.

Top Shingle Companies

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Atlas Roofing Corporation is a renowned company that specializes in manufacturing rubber roofing shingles and other types of shingles. They have grown from a single facility to a total of 19 facilities worldwide.

Atlas Roofing Corporation is known for its innovative approach to roofing, challenging existing methods and traditional roofing techniques. Roofing Insights has recognized Atlas as one of the best rubber shingle companies on the market.

The company exceeds laboratory test standards for impact resistance rubber shingles, earning a Class 4 rating. This achievement is a testament to their commitment to quality and safety.

Atlas Corporation

Atlas Corporation is a renowned company that specializes in manufacturing rubber roofing shingles and other types of shingles. They've grown from a single facility to a total of 19 facilities worldwide.

Atlas is known for its innovative approach and new technologies that challenge traditional roofing methods. This has earned them recognition as one of the best rubber shingle companies on the market by Roofing Insights.

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Atlas exceeds the laboratory test for impact resistance rubber shingles, earning them a Class 4 rating. This makes them a top choice for homeowners looking for durable and long-lasting roofing solutions.

Insurance companies such as American Family Insurance endorse Atlas for discounts, credits, and warranty claims. This is a testament to the company's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Atlas's focus on innovation and quality has helped them stand out in the competitive market. They're a name to remember when it comes to rubber roofing shingles.

Enviroshake Inc

Enviroshake Inc is a pioneer in the composite roofing market, making rubber roofing shingles with an impressive 95% recycled materials.

Their focus on sustainability is evident in the use of plastics, tires, and cellulosic fiber materials in their products.

Enviroshake's rubber shingles boast impressive properties, including UV protection, pest, mildew, wind, and hail resistance.

This level of durability is backed by a 50-year warranty, giving homeowners peace of mind.

The company's commitment to quality is further demonstrated by passing rigorous tests such as the UL 2218 and FM Approvals 4473.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the disadvantages of rubber shingles?

Rubber shingles have two main drawbacks: they can be expensive to install and have a strong, unpleasant odor when new. Despite their durability, they may not offer significant cost savings over other options

How long do rubber roof shingles last?

Rubber roof shingles can last for 40-50+ years with proper maintenance. Their impressive lifespan makes them a durable and long-lasting roofing option.

How much does a rubber shingle roof cost?

A rubber shingle roof typically costs between $7,000 to $23,000, depending on the roof size and membrane type chosen. The cost per square foot ranges from $4.25 to $14, with EPDM being the least expensive option.

Is a rubber roof better than shingles?

Rubber roofs are more durable than shingles due to their resistance to moisture, mildew, and pests. They offer a longer-lasting and low-maintenance alternative to traditional roofing options

Vera Forte

Senior Writer

Vera Forte is a passionate blogger who loves to write about travel, food, and lifestyle. She has been blogging for over 5 years and has gained a significant following due to her engaging writing style and relatable content. Vera's love for exploring new places and trying out different cuisines is evident in her posts, which often feature stunning photographs of her adventures.

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