What Makes Rubber Roofing Material an Excellent Choice
Rubber roofing material is a durable, weather-resistant option ideal for flat and low-slope roofs on both residential and commercial buildings. For homeowners exploring their options, here’s what you need to know:
| Type | Lifespan | Best For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPDM | 25-30 years | Durability, UV resistance | $1.30-$1.69 per sq ft |
| TPO | 20-25 years | Energy efficiency, reflectivity | $5-$10 per sq ft |
| PVC | 25-30 years | Chemical resistance | $6-$12 per sq ft |
| Liquid Rubber | 10-20 years | DIY applications, repairs | ~$2 per sq ft |
Rubber roofing has become increasingly popular due to its exceptional longevity, flexibility, and weather resistance. Unlike traditional roofing materials, rubber membranes create a seamless barrier that can withstand extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and heavy rainfall – making them particularly suitable for Florida’s challenging climate.
What sets rubber roofing apart is its ability to remain flexible even after decades of service. This flexibility allows the material to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking or splitting. Additionally, many rubber roofing options are environmentally friendly, often containing recycled materials and requiring less frequent replacement than conventional roofing.
As a homeowner considering rubber roofing, you’ll benefit from significantly lower maintenance requirements and potential energy savings, especially with reflective white membranes that can reduce cooling costs by up to 25%.
I’m Jason Blair, owner of Aastro Roofing Company, and I’ve installed rubber roofing material on hundreds of South Florida homes over my 25-year career, helping homeowners protect their properties through numerous hurricane seasons while reducing their energy costs. Get an instant roof quote on our website today to see how affordable this premium protection can be for your home.
Explore more about rubber roofing material:
– epdm material
– liquid epdm roofing
How to Choose the Right Rubber Roofing Material
Choosing the perfect rubber roofing material for a South Florida home comes down to five questions:
- What is my roof’s slope?
- How much sun, salt-spray, and wind will it face?
- What is my real budget (installed price ÷ expected life)?
- Which warranty length do I want?
- Will I DIY or hire a pro so the warranty stays valid?
| Feature | EPDM | TPO | PVC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Resistance | Excellent (300 °F) | Good (275 °F) | Good (275 °F) |
| UV Resistance | Superior | Good | Excellent |
| Seam Strength | Moderate | Excellent | Excellent |
| Energy Efficiency | Low (black) / High (white) | High | High |
| Hurricane Resistance | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
EPDM: the reliable work-horse
• 25-30 yr life, proven since the 1970s
• Lowest material cost ($1.30–$1.69 / sq ft)
• Remains flexible in rare cold snaps
• Dark sheets absorb heat unless you choose white EPDM
• Professional seam taping strongly recommended
TPO: the cool-roof champion
• White, highly reflective surface cuts A/C costs up to 25 %
• Heat-welded seams are stronger than the sheet itself
• Mid-range price, fully recyclable
• Quality varies by manufacturer—choose proven brands
PVC: premium protection
• Best chemical, grease, and puncture resistance
• Hot-air welded seams & inherent fire resistance
• Highest up-front cost but outstanding durability and energy savings
Get an instant roof quote on our site to compare installed prices or book a free roof inspection online. We offer easy financing up to 20 years and industry-best warranties so you can choose the right material with confidence.
Comparing Popular Rubber Roofing Material Types
Membrane Systems
Large sheets of EPDM, TPO, or PVC create a single waterproof “skin” – ideal for flat or low-slope roofs that see our famous Florida downpours. Standard thickness is 45–60 mil; installed life is 20–30 years. A study by the EPDM Roofing Association found properly installed EPDM still performing after 30+ years.
Liquid Coatings
Brush, roll, or spray on a seamless layer that conforms to any shape. Perfect for extending the life of an existing roof or for smaller DIY projects. Plan on two coats (~$2 / sq ft).
Roll Products
Narrower rolls (2″–12″) are handy for sheds, RVs, or detail work. They install quickly and provide instant protection without curing time.
Installation Essentials (Cliff Notes)
• Use manufacturer-approved adhesives & primers
• Tape or heat-weld seams—this is where leaks start
• Roll out air bubbles, flash every penetration, and never skip safety gear
Maintenance & Repair
Quarterly debris removal and an annual walk-through are usually all that’s needed. Most punctures patch in minutes with EPDM repair tape or liquid rubber sealant—typically 5 % of replacement cost.
Want to know if your roof is a good candidate? Schedule a free roof inspection or grab an instant quote on our website in minutes.
1. Firestone RubberGard EPDM
Firestone’s RubberGard is the EPDM benchmark I’ve trusted for decades.
Key points
• Two thicknesses: 45 mil (standard) & 60 mil (heavy duty)
• Sheets up to 20′ × 25′ reduce seams
• Material cost: $1.30–$1.69 / sq ft
• Backed by 20–30 yr warranties when professionally installed
Fully adhered systems virtually eliminate wind-uplift—critical during hurricane season. Use our instant roof quote tool to see what a RubberGard roof would cost on your home, then finance it over up to 20 years with our industry-best warranty coverage.
2. Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant
A DIY favorite for small roofs and repairs, this water-based coating rolls on like thick paint and cures into a seamless membrane.
Key points
• 5-gal pail covers ~100 sq ft per coat – plan for two coats
• $199.95 per pail, 4.4-star rating from 3,500+ users
• Bonds to metal, concrete, asphalt, wood, and existing rubber
• Low-VOC and flexible enough for Florida heat cycles
For whole-house projects we still recommend professional membranes, but for sheds, garages, and spot repairs this is tough to beat. Unsure? Book a free inspection and we’ll advise the best route.
3. GenTite Black Non-Reinforced EPDM
A convenient 10′ × 25′ sheet available at Home Depot, perfect for small flat roofs (≤3/12 pitch).
Key points
• 250 sq ft per roll, pairs with GenTite tapes & adhesives
• Handles UV, ponding water, and temperature swings
• Eligible for Home Depot financing; we also offer 20-year terms on full installations
Remember: seams and flashings make or break an EPDM roof. If you’d like pros to handle it—and keep the warranty intact—grab an instant quote today.
4. RecPro PVC RV Rubber Roof Kit
Marketed for RVs but excellent for small residential structures.
Key points
• Widths: 9.5′, 8.5′, 4′ – sold by the foot
• Kit includes membrane, adhesive, and butyl tape
• White PVC reflects heat, easing cooling loads
• DIY-friendly yet durable thanks to hot-air welded seams
Great for porches, sheds, or detached garages. For whole-house PVC, request a free inspection and explore financing with up to 20 years to pay.
5. Class A Customs TPO Roof Kit
Compact commercial-grade TPO in an all-in-one package.
Key points
• 8.5′ wide membrane in 30–35′ lengths
• Self-leveling sealant and accessories included
• Highly reflective white surface can drop roof temps by 60 °F
• Ideal for campers, pool houses, and patio covers
Enjoy energy savings and straightforward installation without hunting for components. Need a larger TPO system? Get an instant roof quote or schedule a free inspection.
6. Rubberizeit Dura-Rubber Roof Coating
A color-customizable liquid membrane that revitalizes existing roofs.
Key points
• 5-gal kits roll or spray onto almost any substrate
• Unlimited color options (white for max reflectivity)
• Seamless, flexible, and repairable—recoat as needed
• Lower landfill waste compared with full tear-offs (see independent research)
Many South Florida owners use Dura-Rubber to buy another decade from an aging roof. Ask us during a free inspection whether restoration or replacement is smarter for your budget.
Cost & Financing Guide
When it comes to rubber roofing material, understanding the complete cost picture helps you make a smart investment that balances upfront expenses with long-term value. As a Florida homeowner, you deserve transparency about what these roofing systems really cost.
The material costs vary significantly depending on which system you choose:
– EPDM typically runs $1.30-$1.69 per square foot for just the material
– TPO comes in higher at $2.00-$3.50 per square foot for the membrane alone
– PVC sits at the premium end at $2.50-$4.00 per square foot for materials
– Liquid Rubber coatings average around $2.00 per square foot for the product itself
But material is only part of the equation. Professional installation adds $3.00-$8.00 per square foot, with the final price depending on your roof’s complexity, whether we need to remove old roofing, how much preparation your substrate needs, and the intricacy of flashing details around vents, skylights, and other penetrations.
When you add everything up, your total project investment typically lands in these ranges:
– EPDM System: $4.30-$9.69 per square foot completely installed
– TPO System: $5.00-$11.50 per square foot for a turnkey solution
– PVC System: $5.50-$12.00 per square foot for the premium option
– Liquid Rubber: $3.00-$7.00 per square foot for simpler applications
Many of our South Florida customers find ways to offset these costs. Energy-efficient white membranes often qualify for utility rebates or tax incentives. If your existing roof structure is sound, restoration rather than complete replacement can save you 50-70% on project costs. And don’t forget that regular maintenance dramatically extends your roof’s lifespan, reducing your true lifetime cost.
At Aastro Roofing, we’ve spent 70 years helping homeowners make these important investments affordable. That’s why we offer easy financing with terms up to 20 years – turning what could be a financial burden into a manageable monthly payment that fits your budget. Our tiered warranty options provide additional protection, with coverage ranging from 10 to 30 years depending on which system you select.
Want to know exactly what your new rubber roof will cost? Get an instant roof quote on our website by simply entering your address and basic roof details. Within minutes, you’ll receive a comprehensive estimate custom to your specific home, including material, labor, and warranty options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rubber Roofing
How long does rubber roofing last?
• EPDM : 25–30 yrs (often 40 + with maintenance)
• TPO : 20–25 yrs
• PVC : 25–30 yrs
• Liquid coatings : 10–20 yrs but can be recoated indefinitely
Can I install rubber roofing myself?
Liquid coatings and small roll products suit experienced DIYers. Full EPDM, TPO, or PVC membranes require pro-grade tools and techniques—plus manufacturers often void DIY warranties. When in doubt, book a free roof inspection.
Is rubber roofing environmentally friendly?
Yes. Long service life means fewer replacements, white “cool-roof” options slash energy use up to 25 %, and most membranes are recyclable. Many clients also use them as bases for solar or living roofs.
Still have questions? Use our instant roof quote tool or call for a free inspection—financing up to 20 years makes upgrading easier than ever.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your South Florida home, selecting the right rubber roofing material isn’t just about finding a covering—it’s about making a smart investment in your property’s future. Whether you’re drawn to EPDM’s impressive track record, TPO’s energy-saving reflectivity, PVC’s premium performance, or the DIY-friendly nature of liquid rubber coatings, you’re choosing a solution that outperforms traditional roofing in our challenging climate.
I’ve seen how these materials stand up to Florida’s punishing sun, sudden downpours, and hurricane-force winds. With proper installation, your rubber roof won’t just survive—it’ll thrive for decades. When you calculate the cost over a 20-50+ year lifespan, rubber roofing delivers exceptional value that’s hard to beat.
What makes these materials perfect for our area is their remarkable flexibility. As your home naturally expands and contracts through our extreme temperature swings, rubber roofing flexes right along with it, maintaining its watertight seal season after season. No cracking, no splitting—just reliable protection year after year.
Here at Aastro Roofing, we bring over 70 years of combined expertise to your project. Our team doesn’t just install roofing—we craft custom solutions specifically designed for South Florida’s unique challenges. We’re so confident in our craftsmanship that we back every installation with industry-best warranties, giving you peace of mind for decades to come.
I understand that roofing represents a significant investment. That’s why we’ve made the process as stress-free as possible with our easy financing options offering terms up to 20 years. Getting started couldn’t be simpler—visit our website for an instant roof quote custom to your specific home, or book a free roof inspection online to have our experts assess your needs in person.
With minimal maintenance, your new rubber roof will deliver decades of worry-free protection while potentially trimming your energy bills and reducing your environmental footprint. It’s not just a roof—it’s peace of mind during every storm season and comfort during our hottest months.
Ready to learn more? Explore our detailed guide on EPDM roofing to find why so many of your South Florida neighbors are choosing rubber roofing material for their homes and businesses. Your roof deserves the best—and so do you.
