Forum Discussion

Old_Uncle_Dave's avatar
Old_Uncle_Dave
Explorer
Nov 02, 2016

Rubber roof what to do to it?

I have a new to me 04 Terry with a rubber roof. I have resealed all edges and the thru the roof items such a sky lights with self leveling chaulk. It cleaned up good but has lots of mold stain and the white surface has worn to the black substrate in a few spots. The rubber seems to be still soft and pliable. There are presently no leaks.

The question is what is a good coating to restore the roof to like new. Shiney and white.
I have used elasometric on metal roofs, but unsure to use it on this rubber roof.
On line I have found some rubber roof coating. Different brands and prices. Reccomendations would be greatly reccomended.

Thanks,
Old Uncle Dave

P.S. Sorry but the spell check here, does not work for me.
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Nov 02, 2016
    In addition to the self leveling caulk, use Eternabond tape. It's a great product.

    I just coated our 96 Southwind roof with Heng's Rubber Roof Coating. It went on easily and looks good.

    Clean your roof well and let dry before applying whatever product you chose.
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Nov 02, 2016
    Old Uncle Dave wrote:
    Hello Gbopp

    How long is the Southwind and how much Heng,s did you use?
    Thanks


    The Southwind is 37' long by 8.5' wide. The actual rubber roof area is 30' long. I ordered 3 gallons of Heng's Rubber Roof Coating.'
    I have almost half a gallon left. No primer is needed.

    My roof had large areas where it was black, the white coating had worn off.
    I started with a very light coat of Heng's then added two light coats.
    It did a nice job.

    Prior to coating I cleaned the roof with Tide powdered laundry detergent. I had read not to use Dawn, it could cause the coating to peal.

    I'm very satisfied with the results.
  • chuckbear's avatar
    chuckbear
    Explorer
    Nov 02, 2016
    We used the EPDM RV Rubber Roof Coating. It is a lot of work but has sealed the roof. But, after only a few months the entire roof starting showing black and gray spots all over. Now it is almost completely covered and looks really bad. There are no leaks, but we have tried every known cleaner that won't damage the roof and NOTHING will clean it. EPDM has been of NO HELP in resolving this. Chuck
  • tvman44's avatar
    tvman44
    Explorer
    Nov 02, 2016
    I don't think think the black spots are avoidable. I was told they don't hurt a thing. My opinion is no one can see them unless they climb up there then I would kick the ladder out from under them. LOL
  • Old_Uncle_Dave's avatar
    Old_Uncle_Dave
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2016
    Hello Chuckbear,

    That stuff is rather expensive.
    Would you please offer a brief as to how you applied the material.
    What did you do for preparation?
    Did you apply a thick coat or thin? Two or more coats?
    What is your take on what the problem is?

    Any one else have an idea of what the problem is?

    Thanks,
    Old Uncle Dave
  • westend's avatar
    westend
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2016
    Any one else have an idea of what the problem is?

    Typically, the white coating deteriorates with exposure and weather. It sluffs off the underlying EPDM rubber. I'd suggest to clean the roof well with the appropriate soap, rinse, let dry, and then apply the white coating as to the Mfg's directions.
    The more expensive "Liquid Rubber" products seem to hold up well for members on this Forum.
  • chuckbear's avatar
    chuckbear
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2016
    Old Uncle Dave wrote:
    Hello Chuckbear,

    That stuff is rather expensive.
    Would you please offer a brief as to how you applied the material.
    What did you do for preparation?
    Did you apply a thick coat or thin? Two or more coats?
    What is your take on what the problem is?

    Any one else have an idea of what the problem is?

    Thanks,
    Old Uncle Dave


    If you go to the EPDM Roof Coatings website, they have detailed instructions and videos on how to install. That is exactly how I did mine. It requires a coat of primer and then a single coat based on a certain thickness. No amount of cleaning with any product that will not damage the roof has helped with my issue. EPDM's response is, "We don't don't know what caused it so we can't help you." Chuck

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