If you follow the manufacturer’s directions and take the necessary safety measures whilst working on your roof, DIY rubber roofing can be installed by an inexperienced householder. The first thing to do is ensure your roof is totally clean with no gravel, debris or pre-existing roofing materials remaining. If it has rained recently, wait until the roof completely dries out. The DIY rubber materials will not adhere to a wet surface and will trigger all sorts of problems. Therefore, any snow, ice, frost or pools of water must be cleared and the roof dried out before starting your DIY rubber roofing project.
You should unroll your rubber roofing material and let it stand spread out for about 30 minutes before starting to install. If the weather is cold, allow additional standing time to allow it to rest. Ensure the material is free of creases to ensure it will fit correctly on your roof. When cutting the rubber roofing to fit the roof, ensure there is a three inch overhang. Start in the centre and work towards the edges. A quick and easy way to apply the adhesive is with a normal paint roller. For a strong bond, it is advisable to also apply a thin coat of adhesive onto the DIY rubber roofing material. Be careful that the adhesive is applied evenly avoiding any ‘pools’. Not too much pressure should be applied and ensure you avoid smearing adhesive on the rubber roofing seams.
DIY rubber roofing installation must be carried out carefully and accurately. The rubber roofing material must be aligned correctly along the length of the roof. This will guarantee your roof will last and be trouble free for years. After application of the adhesive, brush over the area to ensure there are no bubbles where moisture could soak in. It is very important to eliminate any bubbles as just a few can cause future troubles. Once installed, your DIY rubber roofing system will be dry within a few hours. You will then be able to enjoy a weatherproof and waterproof roof which will withstand all the extremes of the elements. If you use good quality rubber roofing material, your roof can be trouble free for up to 50 years.
It is obviously economical in the long term to select the best quality rubber roofing materials which are manufactured from synthetic rubber called EPDM membranes. These are far superior to any other available roofing materials. Roofing contractors have realised that EPDM membranes are tough, long lasting and will withstand all types of weather conditions for many decades. Because of this, DIY rubber roofing materials will work in any country, regardless of climatic conditions. It is used in hot and arid desert countries in the Middle East and also in the incessant ice and snow of Alaska. It is definitely the ideal preference for your DIY home improvement venture.