Whether it's a sloped home roof, garage, or glass porch, installing durable roofing materials with water-repellent properties is a smart move. While the market offers a wide variety of options, a rubber roof is your best bet. This can eliminate drainage problems and create excellent insulation from the outside. This allows you to lower your heating bills and reduce the risk of leaks while keeping maintenance to a minimum. And no, the cost of rubber roofing won't break the bank. Most homeowners spend around $11,000 to install a new roof on their home, but the final price depends on the quality of material you choose.
The average cost of a rubber roof
low end | 6.500 $ |
Average | 11.000 $ |
High quality | 21.000 $ |
As a general rule of thumb, the bigger your roof, the more you'll have to spend on the renovation. However, you can save costs by choosing cheaper membrane materials and insulation types. The cost of a rubber roof per square foot can range from $4 to $11 (including installation). If you don't feel like hiring contractors and want to do everything yourself, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $4 per square foot just for rubber roofing materials.
The national average cost of rubber roofing per square foot
Square meters of the roof | Average cost of installation |
---|---|
100 | 400 bis 1,100 US dollar |
1.000 | 4,000 bis 11,000 US dollars |
1.500 | 6,000 bis 16,500 US dollars |
2.000 | 8,000 bis 22,000 US dollars |
2.500 | 10,000 bis 27,500 US dollars |
3.000 | 12,000 to 33,000 US dollars |
Many rubber roof manufacturers offer products cut to different thicknesses to speed up installation. So you can find rolls that measure from 20' x 25' to 20' x 70' to 20' x 90' and more. They may vary depending on the brand and material of the rubber roof. With the national average cost of $2 per square foot, you can easily calculate the potential expenses.
Rubber roofing material costs per roll.
roll sizes | Average cost |
---|---|
20x25 | 1.000 $ |
20x40 | 1.600 $ |
20x60 | 2.400 $ |
20x70 | 2.800 $ |
20x90 | 3.600 $ |
20x100 | 4.000 $ |
The cost of rubber roofing by size
If you have a low pitched roof, with a pitch of around 10cm, the length and complexity of the roof are still the main factors affecting costs. How does it work? Let's say you have a 2,000-square-foot home with lots of nooks and accents like fireplaces. In this case, roofers may need to cut shingles into different sizes to protect leak-prone areas, which means some pieces may become debris. While you could have spent up to $8,000 on materials to cover a standard roof, you'll need to find additional money to complete your project. In addition, a complex roof requires more effort, which can also be reflected in the final price.
The average cost to replace a rubber roof by roof size
roof size | Average Installation Costs |
---|---|
10 square | 8.000 $ |
15 square | 12.000 $ |
20 square | 16.000 $ |
30 square | 24.000 $ |
The cost of rubber roofing material by type of membrane.
Rubber shingles are considered an eco-friendly alternative to asphalt and slate as they are made from recycled materials such as plastic sawdust and tires. Depending on your budget, design preferences, and needs, you can choose from a variety of membrane types, including:
- TPO.If you are short on money, thermoplastic polyolefin may be the right choice as it is an affordable yet high quality option. You can expect to spend $1 to $3 per square foot for materials. If you choose to hire contractors, they can cost anywhere from $4 to $10.50 per square foot installed. The half-life of this type of membrane is about 17 years.
- EPDM.If you want to cover your roof with proven roofing materials that do not require much maintenance, you should pay attention to ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). It can cost you between $4 and $11 per installed square foot. Since it's only made in black color, you'd better choose it for the cold US states.
- POLYVINYL CHLORIDE.Polyvinyl chloride membranes are the most durable types of roofing rubber, as they can last up to 22 years, even in harsh weather conditions. You can expect to pay between $5.5 and $12 per square foot installed. Rubber roofing material alone can range in price from $1.7 to $3.5 per square foot.
- Other thermosetting types.You can also find thermosetting (vulcanized roofing) materials such as neoprene (CR), polyisobutylene (PIB), and chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE). They can only be combined with other types of thermosets using adhesives to create a thicker membrane.
The cost of rubber roofing by type of membrane.
membrane type | The range of average cost per square foot (materials only) |
---|---|
TPO | $1 to $3 |
EPDM | $0.70 up to $4 |
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE | 1.7 to 3.5 US dollar |
Rubber roof costs for style
When choosing the right rubber roof covering, you can also use the style as a guide. There are two options to consider: clapboard and mosaic. They come in different designs, features, and price tags. Analyze the following information to make a decision:
- herpes.Membrane shingles are installed in large sheets to minimize the number of seams and make your roof less prone to leaks. Prices for rubber roofing materials can vary by brand and location, and range from $3 to $12 per installed square foot. They are made from recycled synthetic rubber and, with good care, can withstand harsh environmental conditions for up to 30 years.
- slabs.If you want to enhance your flat roof with state-of-the-art technical roofing products without sacrificing beauty, composite shingles are for you. Manufacturers use a wide range of materials for their production, from fiberglass to polymers and rubber. Because of this, composite shingles can increase the weather resistance of your roof and make it more attractive. Even if you have to spend $7 to $15 per square foot to install it, it can still be a great investment. This roofing material is characterized by a service life of 50 years.
The cost of rubber roofing material varies depending on the style.
rubber roof coating | The range of average cost per square foot. (Inclusive of installation) |
---|---|
herpes | $3 to $12 |
slabs | 7a 15 US dollars |
The cost of rubber roofing through the membrane installation system.
The thickness and type of system are two other factors that can affect the price of your rubber roofing. While it may be tempting to buy cheaper options because "a few millimeters doesn't make much of a difference," this is not the case. Thinner materials are less durable and sustainable, so teething problems can arise during installation. There are three main rubber roofing systems to choose from:
- ballasted.You can expect to pay anywhere from $1.25 to $2.50 per square foot for materials alone. Contractors can use rocks, pavers, or gravel to weigh down the sheets.
- adjunct.In this membrane installation system, roofing membranes are overlapped and secured to the surface with screws and metal plates. In addition to materials, which can cost $2 to $3 per square foot, you'll need to purchase equipment. If the roof of your house has overhangs, the cost of installing the rubber roof can increase significantly.
- stuck.If you want to keep the number of holes to a minimum, this method is for you. Roofers use special adhesives to bond materials to the roof surface. The sheets alone can cost $3-4 per square foot, but you'll also need to purchase glue considering that a 5-gallon bucket will do for 1 square foot.
The prices of rubber roofs according to the membrane installation system.
Type | Average cost per square foot (materials only) |
---|---|
weighted | 1,70 – 2,60 $ |
adjunct | 1,90 $ – 3 $ |
stuck | 2,85 $ – 4 $ |
The labor cost of installing a rubber roof.
Unless your home's roof has a complex shape and multiple stories, installing new roofing materials can become a great DIY project if you have some experience. However, you must be sure that you can attach everything properly and securely.
Professional contractors can save you the hassle of installing rubber roofing for as little as $2.50 per square foot. However, for a challenging roofing project, they may charge more (up to $6 per square foot).
What to consider when calculating the cost of the roof per square meter
How much does a rubber roof cost? This question creates anxiety for many homeowners facing the need to replace their roof. If you are wondering about this aspect as well, take the time to consider all the nuances that can drive up the price. The list of such things includes, among others:
- Roof pitch and design complexity.In many US states, building codes prohibit the installation of rubber roofs where the slope is greater than 2 inches per foot (2%). Therefore, you should check in advance whether your roof is suitable for such an update. If you own a multi-story home, you should contact local contractors to estimate the scope of work. Complex projects may command a higher price.
- Cover accessibility.Once the roof of your house is over 15 feet high, it is considered difficult to access. Roofers can charge higher rates for poor accessibility and the labor involved.
- Dachfarbe.When you use a rubber roofing cost calculator, you may be overlooking such an unobvious factor as the color of your home's roof. However, this affects the price, since all roofing materials, except black, are more expensive. So if a standard option does not suit you due to hot weather, you can pay more.
- roof penetrations.You can protect your roof from moisture buildup by adding additional trim and insulation around air conditioners, chimneys, and other vulnerable areas. Because these steps take time and effort, labor costs can add up significantly. Also, dormer windows, skylights, and other decorative elements can take longer for contractors to complete the roofing project.
- material thickness.The thicker your roofing material, the longer it can stay looking like new. However, contractors must use a stronger mounting system to securely hold the panels, resulting in higher project costs.
Additional roofing services affect the cost of rubber roofing
Replacing a roof on a home is never easy, but experienced handymen can make it very easy. Only financially you should be prepared for possible expenses. To ensure a stress-free roofing project, you should include all associated services in your estimate before you begin:
- get permissions.Regardless of whether it is a major rubber roof repair or replacement, you need approval from your local authorities. The cost may be higher or lower depending on your location, but you can expect to spend around $300 on average.
- Inspection.It is advisable to schedule an annual roof inspection to identify damage or defects at an early stage. Specialists can also help you decide what materials and services are needed to restore your roof to its maximum protective shield. A roof inspection can cost you between $100 and $400.
- Remove the old roof.If you only have one layer of old roofing, you can skip this step as it is common practice to install a new one on top. However, a multi-layer coat requires complete removal. This service can cost around $1.5 per square foot.
- Fix.If you can't afford a complete roof replacement, a repair can save the day. You can expect to spend up to $450 to repair a minor tear with caulking or patching, while a large problem (up to one square foot) can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000.
- Isolation.To create a nice, level surface and keep the house warm, you need to put a layer of insulation under the top roofing material. Costs can range from $1.70 to $7 per square foot installed.
- sealing and coating.If you live in a hot and humid US state, a coating process can help extend the life of your rubber roof. Protects the surface from UV rays, preventing cracks in the rubber. It can also be protected from algae and moss growth outside and inside the roof. You can pay between $1.20 and $4 per square foot.
The cost of roofing services.
Service | average cost |
---|---|
get permissions | 300 $ |
Inspection | 100 bis 400 US dollars |
remove old roof | 1,5 $ pro Quadratfuß. |
fix | 400 bis 1,000 US dollar |
isolation | 1,70 bis 7 US-Dollar pro Quadratfuß. |
sealing and coating | 1.20 bis 4 US dollars pro Quadratfuß. |
Frequently asked questions
What membrane is the best for flat roofs?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is considered the best option for low-sloped roofs. Once installed, you can enjoy impressive durability and water resistance for up to 30 years.
Are rubber roofs suitable for cold climates?
High-quality rubber roofs withstand extreme weather and climate conditions, such as rain and snow. The only thing is that the installation must be done by professionals to make sure that all the panels are securely fastened.
How long does a rubber roof last?
Material type, climate and maintenance are key factors that can affect the life of rubber roofing. While EPDM and TPO roofs can last up to 25 years, PVC can last around 30 years.
FAQs
Is $30,000 too much for a roof? ›
Is $30,000 too much for a roof? Paying $30,000 may be too much for a roof if the size of the roof, type of roofing materials, and complexity of the project do not align with the expected cost. Paying $30,000 may be reasonable for a complex project over 4,000 square feet.
How long does a new rubber roof last? ›If installed correctly, you can expect a rubber roof to in excess of up to 50 years. Because an EPDM flat roof is compromised of durable rubber, it can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail or snow and common weather such as rain and strong winds.
What is the most cost effective roofing? ›Asphalt Shingle Roofing: Best Overall
Aside from being the most cost-effective roofing option, asphalt shingles are ideal for most climates, offer a reasonable life span with proper maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable and cost-effective roofing material.
Labor cost to install sheathing on a roof
Roofing contractors charge $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot or $45 to $75 per hour for labor to re-sheath a roof.
Typical roofing companies make between 20 percent and 40 percent gross profit in the roofing industry. The number for service-focused companies may be higher while the number for new construction and large commercial companies may be lower.
How long does the cheapest roof last? ›At the cheaper end, you'll find thinner metals (26 to 29 gauge) with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. High-end metal roofing (22 to 24 gauge) is popular in northern regions because of its ability to send snow sliding from the roof, and it's durable enough that it can easily last more than half a century.
How often should you reseal a rubber roof? ›In fact, about every two to four years is ideal, depending on the kind of weather you have and the type of environment you drive through on a regular basis. Certain kinds of climates can cause more wear and tear on the roof than others. And always, after a large storm or heavy snow, inspect the roof for damage.
How often should you recoat a rubber roof? ›It's a good idea to plan for a new coating every five years to ensure its integrity and continued performance.
What is the cheapest material to replace a roof? ›If you're on a tight budget, asphalt shingles are going to be the most cost-effective roofing material for your upcoming roof replacement. While asphalt is the cheapest roofing material, there are 3 different types of asphalt shingles that vary in price and affect how much you'll spend on your roof replacement.
What is the cheapest roof form? ›The cheapest roof design is a roof with just hips, which are the sloping part, while the gable is the triangular bit on the end of the roof. A lot of subdivisions require a roof with hips and gables (rather than just a hip roof) so that is the most common form of roof construction.
What is the best longest lasting roofing? ›
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 or more years. They are without a doubt the materials that last the longest but are also, bar none, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever.
What is the cheapest sheathing material? ›OSB is a conventional sheathing material used for subfloors, roof and wall sheathing. OSB is traditionally cheaper than plywood and other structural sheathings; however, a high demand over supply of OSB in recent years has caused OSB prices to escalate.
Should roof sheathing be nailed or screwed? ›The cheapest and easiest is to re-nail or, better yet, screw down the sheathing when you replace your roof covering. The other approach is applying an AFG-01 rated adhesive to enable the roof sheathing to withstand pressure to 250 pounds per square foot or greater.
What thickness of OSB is needed on a roof? ›Oriented strand board for roof decks should be a minimum of 12.7 mm (1/2 in) thick.
Where do roofers make the most money? ›State | Employment (1) | Hourly mean wage |
---|---|---|
California | 18,220 | $ 31.71 |
Texas | 6,160 | $ 20.20 |
Illinois | 5,940 | $ 32.80 |
Washington | 5,500 | $ 30.17 |
The labor and time it takes to install your new roof
Installing a roof takes skill, takes time, and is labor-intensive. This makes labor and time two huge reasons why a new roof costs so much. If anything takes time and labor during the project, it shows up in pricing.
Simply put, Overhead and Profit allows roofing contractors or companies to add 20% to the total price of a roofing project to cover expenses. This total amounts for 10% of overhead and 10% of profit, netting a total of 20% to be paid by a homeowner's insurance.
What color roof lasts the longest? ›Lighter colored shingles might be better for longevity than dark colored shingles because of the way they react to light and heat.
What time of year is cheapest to replace roof? ›However, winter is usually the cheapest time of year to replace your roof. This is simply because winter is the slowest time of year in the roofing industry. Because of this, roofing contractors' prices are generally the lowest or more competitive during the winter months.
What time of year is best to replace a roof? ›Fall. Fall is the universal go-to season for roof replacement. With spring's mild temperatures and early summer's weather consistency, fall is commonly referred to as the best time of year to replace your roof.
Do you have to glue down rubber roofing? ›
When you are fitting an EPDM roof, you need to make sure that it is glued down properly. During the membrane application process, you will need to apply two different types of adhesive. The first is a water-based adhesive. Use Permaroof deck adhesive for the best results.
Is it OK to walk on a rubber roof? ›An EPDM flat rubber roof is capable of withstanding light foot traffic. This is during the installation process, further maintenance and using it to access windows for cleaning.
Can you put a second layer of rubber on a roof? ›Technically, some rubber roofs can be laid over existing layers, but it's always best practice to tear off the old roofing and replace it new.
What are 4 disadvantages of rubber? ›1- Get damaged under the action of strong acid, ozone, oils, greases and fats. 2- Not recommended for use in alcohols, esters, or among the aromatic solution. 3- Low temperature properties. 4- Higher raw material prices.
What type of rubber roof is best? ›Single-ply rubber roofing is the ideal material for flat and low-sloped roofs because of its durability and water resistance. Each type of rubber roofing material—whether it contains synthetic rubber polymers or plastic polymers—was specifically designed to protect low-sloped roofs from water damage.
What goes underneath a rubber roof? ›Underlayment is a waterproof or water resistant barrier that's installed directly to your roof deck before the actual roof material is installed. Here are some good reasons to use underlayment: It provides protection for the roof deck before and during the installation process.
How much does it cost to coat a rubber roof? ›Roof coating materials range from $0.15 to $2.50 per square foot. Acrylic coating is the most affordable (even the best kinds cost under a dollar per square foot). Liquid rubber and high-end polyurea (which requires two coats) will cost $2 to $2.50 per square foot.
Can you use 30 seconds on a rubber roof? ›Answer: 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner does list RV roofs on the label. 36 of 45 people found this answer helpful.
How can I make my rubber roof last longer? ›Of course, rubber roofs will last much longer if installed with proper drainage in mind. Your roofing contractor should install your rubber roof in a way that ensures water drains away from the rooftop, which may include special flashing to help channel water away from vulnerable surfaces.
What is the easiest roofing to install? ›Rolled roofing is one of the easiest and cheapest roofing materials you can purchase. Plus, it is one of few types of roofs that most homeowners can install on a do-it-yourself basis, although in a limited fashion.
Is a drip edge necessary on a roof? ›
Without a drip edge, water may end up beneath the shingles and may cause damage to various parts of the home. Though your home may not have originally had a drip edge installed, drip edges are now required by most building codes across North America to protect homes from damage.
Can you put a new roof over an old roof? ›Roofing over an existing roof is also called reroofing or an overlay. It is the process where roofers install a new roof over your existing one, i.e. add a new layer of shingles, which means that there is no tearing off of the old roof.
What is the simplest type of roof? ›The simplest is the lean-to, or shed, which has only one slope. A roof with two slopes that form an “A” or triangle is called a gable, or pitched, roof.
What is the strongest roof material? ›If you're looking for the strongest type of roof, you're looking for a DECRA metal roof. Since 1957, DECRA Metal Roofing has set the industry standard for durability and longevity.
What is the best roof sheeting? ›OSB (oriented strand board) is the most popular choice for sheathing today. It's made of wood chips and strips that are compressed together to form a flat 7/16” sheet. Plywood has several different thicknesses (⅜”, ½”, ⅝”, and ¾”) depending on the span of your rafters.
What are the most durable roofing sheets? ›Material | Average Lifespan |
---|---|
Polycarbonate | 10 – 20 Years |
Bitumen | 15 – 20 Years |
Fibre Cement | 50+ Years |
Metal | 40 – 60 Years |
Polyurethane Boards Replace Plywood in Structural and Non-structural Parts. The closed-cell foam sheets are lighter and stronger than plywood and resist warping and mold. This article was updated Jan. 2, 2022.
What is cheaper CDX or OSB? ›If you are big on saving, then you would want to go with OSB since it is a cheaper version of CDX. However, in as much as CDX is more expensive in relation to OSB, generally, they are both affordable and easily available in lumberyards and stores.
What is cheaper than OSB? ›Fiberboard also makes a great OSB alternative because it is easily accessible and comes at a relatively low cost.
Why do roofers use nails instead of screws? ›Nails are a favorite for large jobs in construction because they're cheaper than screws and offer shear strength — or the ability to withstand shear pressure, where two surfaces slide past each other. But screws offer superior tensile strength over nails.
Do you leave a gap in roof sheathing? ›
As of 2021, if plank decking has more than a 1/8” gap between the planks, your roof decking must be replaced per the manufacturer's installation instructions before the roofing material can be installed.
Why don't roofers use screws? ›Framing walls and rafters/trusses, sheathing walls and roofs , siding and shingling and many other steps nails are both better and cheaper . Screws have more holding strength but less shear strength the nails. Where a nail will flex and bend a tiny bit a screw will break.
What is the gap between OSB and roof sheathing? ›APA recommends a 1/8-inch space between panel edge and end joints. Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB), like all wood products, will expand or shrink slightly with changes in moisture content. If the wood structural panels are tightly butted, there is no room for expansion and buckling can occur.
What side of OSB should face up on a roof? ›OSB roof panels should always be installed with the grade stamp facing into the attic and the screened surface (with the nail guide lines) facing up. When the grade stamp is covered by roofing, the building inspector will not be able to confirm that the correct OSB roofing panel was used.
How much space do you need between OSB roofs? ›During the installation of OSB, the rough surface side should be facing up. This rough side is a screened or skid-resistant coated side. The panels should be spaced 1/8-inch apart at the ends and edges.
How much should I save for a new roof? ›Some people will advise you to save at least 1% of the value of your home every month. On average, a 2,500-square-foot home will need between $8,500 and $14,000 for a new roof. For a home valued at $150,000, that means you would need to save at least $1,500 monthly to afford the new roof in under one year.
How often do you need to replace a roof? ›Asphalt Shingles: 15-30 years. Wood Shingles: 20-25 years. Rubber Roofs: 30-50 years. Metal Roofs: 50-75 years.
How long should a roof last? ›The average lifespan of a roof usually ranges between 25 to 50 years. However, a roof's life expectancy ultimately depends on the quality, durability and type of material chosen.
How long does it take to replace a roof? ›Typically, a new roof installation is a two-day process, but it depends on the size of your roof. Some jobs can be completed in a day while others may take three. Whether your roof replacement will take one day or three, it will be very disruptive to your children and pets.
Is 20000 too much for a roof? ›The average a homeowner spends on a new roof is around $15,000-$20,000.
What damages roof the most? ›
- Wind damage. Tornadoes are a frequent occurrence in the Midwest. ...
- UV and heat damage. If your roof has heat or UV damage, you might notice warped or buckling shingles. ...
- Leaks and water damage. ...
- Damaged flashing. ...
- Hail damage. ...
- Structural damage. ...
- Fungus and debris. ...
- Ice dams.
If you're someone who needs a more technical answer, this article explains that roofs with good resale value tend to be neutral-colored. This includes tan, brown, black, and gray.
What type of roof is best? ›Slate is the most durable and longest-lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of more than 150 years. The next most durable material is clay, which has a lifespan of about 100 years.
What is the best month to replace a roof? ›Fall (September, October, November)
The transition to cooler temperatures produces a prime time for roof replacements. Fall is considered the best time to replace your roof and here's why: Comfortable temperatures (for the crew and shingles!)
HOUSE COLOR | BEST MATCHING ROOF SHINGLE COLOR |
---|---|
Beige/Cream | Brown, Black, Grey, Green, Blue |
Brown | Grey, Brown, Green, Blue |
White | Almost any color including Brown, Grey, Black, Green, Blue, White |
Weathered Wood or Log Houses | Brown, Green, Black, Grey |
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 or more years. They are without a doubt the materials that last the longest but are also, bar none, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever.
Should I replace my roof if it's not leaking? ›So obviously you want to replace your roof before it starts leaking or fails completely. A reputable roofing contractor will recommend that you replace your roof somewhere around 80-85% of the manufacturer's life of the roof. For example, you should consider replacing a 25-year roof around the 20-year mark.