Different types of Rubber roof ??

I'm pretty sure there is only one type of rubber roof, it is EPDM rubber. TPO is not rubber, it is more of a vinyl/plastic.

I had TPO originally and replaced it with EPDM.

Pineapple Kid wrote:


Is their much difference in the different roof rubber types and any good and bad to any? Or are they all about the same and I can just pick one for price and availability?

There are differences btw TPO and EPDM, mainly in what sealants you use to repair them - or after you've drilled few dozen holes for solar panels :).

EPDM are prevalent. If price is a concern, a rig with floorplan that you like for the price that you like, will likely have EPDM roof. Simply because they are prevalent.

NO not all rubber roofs are the same. I have compared the EPDM on my old Tioga with building grade PVC (white also) no comparison. IF you use the building type PVC, you will probably never have to touch your roof again. Not sure if it could even be done, but If I needed to do a re-roof on a rubber roofed camper, I would try really hard to use commercial grade PVC roofing material.

I think what the Kauai member was trying to find out was the difference between RV rubber roofs (or whatever synthetic they use). Beemer is right - TPO is not a "rubber" but vinyl-like plastic, so might need different sealers. As to the commercial grade PVC - I don't recall any on RV roofs.

There is more than 2 types of roof material on RV: beside EPDM and TPO, there are also fiberglass and aluminum. Either FG or aluminum will outlast any rubber or plastic (this includes commercial PVC) in terms of aging, especially in places with plenty of sun. But, from what I hear, aluminum roofs are very thin and more prone to punctures than all other types mentioned here.