DIY Rubber Roof Project
If you’re new to rubber roofing or want some quick tips and answers, to help install your own roof, we’ve answered some common questions about what’s involved when fitting a rubber roof yourself.
What material is a rubber roof?
Rubber roofs are made from a specific rubber material known as EPDM. When you see Rubber roof or an EPDM roof, these are the same thing.
What is EPDM?
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and is a type of synthetic rubber. It’s been built specifically to protect buildings and roofs from all types of weather, especially rain.
Can I install a rubber roof myself?
Yes, most rubber roofs are easy to install. Some roofs may be trickier if they have obstructions such as pipes, vents and skylights. Take a look at our how-to videos here before you get started, so you have a better idea of what to expect.
What materials do I need to get started?
We have two options to help you calculate the materials you’re going to need for your DIY EPDM roof installation.
Pick one of our Roof Kits – We’ve got kits for all types of roofs, simply select the right size and we’ll send you everything you need.
Create a Custom ClassicBond Kit – Our Online Calculator will work out all your materials in a few simple steps.
How long does it take to install a DIY rubber roof?
This will depend on the size of the roof you’re working on but, as a general rule, a 20m2 roof should take 3-4 hours to install.
Be sure to take into account the time it will take to prep the roof first. If you need to strip the old roof and replace any old or worn decking, this could end up taking longer than installing the EPDM roof itself.
Is EPDM safe to use?
Yes, our DIY EPDM roof kits come with full instructions and are prepared, ready for use, giving you all the materials you need to install your roof safely.
We always recommend using appropriate PPE for all your DIY projects and suggest using knee pads for installing EPDM roofs.
When is it best to install an EPDM roof?
Always check the weather before you start your roof installation. The adhesives in EPDM roofs aren’t designed to be installed in the damp or wet, so you’ll need to ensure you have dry conditions for installation.
You also want to avoid installing your EPDM roof in temperatures at or below 5℃ as this could affect how well the adhesive performs.
Got any more questions?
If you need any further information for your DIY EPDM roof project, you can check out more FAQ’s here, or you can contact us on 0800 313 4486 if you are calling from a landline or 024 7666 7234 if you are calling from a mobile phone.
What equipment will I need?
You will typically need a standard 9″ roller set, mini roller and brush for applying the adhesives and primers. A Seam Roller is a useful tool for tapes and joins and the RESITRIX system will require a heat gun for joins.
How do you maintain a rubber roof?
There are a handful of ways to maintain your rubber roof from carrying out periodic checks to sweeping it and checking for splits and blisters. We’ve created an article explaining all the best steps in detail here.
How do I fix damages in my rubber roof?
Prepare the damaged area. You’ll need to start by clearing and cleaning the area that’s damaged.
For small tears or holes to bigger damages, you will need to patch over the damaged area with a new piece of EPDM that you’ve cut to size.
Damaged roof trim and special EPDM areas such as drain seals can be replaced and easily installed. To find out more about how to repair your rubber roof, watch our helpful YouTube tutorial here.
If you’d like any additional help or have any questions on how to care for your rubber roof, get in touch with our team on 024 7666 7234 .
