Asphalt

Asphalt is the cheapest of the waterproofing roofs. Its installation costs more than all other materials combined. It is also easier to repair damage to the roof and also acts as a fire retardant. In many cases, the only maintenance required is to brush off the loose asphalt at the edge of the roof space. Asphalt has many years of successful service as a roofing material.

Liquid Rubber 

Liquid rubber is the most environmentally friendly option available. It costs about the same as asphalt but does not contain sulfur, petroleum, or synthetic chemicals. It is made from rubber tree sap, which has many years of service as a waterproofing material. Its eco-friendly benefits extend beyond roofing, however. Its use reduces landfill waste because it encourages the recycling of plastics and other products. Its availability has increased significantly over the years and it is now widely available in many parts of the US.

Bitumen

Bitumen is the most difficult form of roof waterproofing roofs to install. Its texture lends itself to the incorporation of adhesives and silicone sealants, two of the most common roofing products. Installation of bitumen involves excavating an area large enough to accommodate the roofing system on top of the ground. The system is then deposited into the excavated area, which must be tightly sealed to prevent water penetration

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is a very rigid and durable material that comes in sheets that are applied several times over the roof system. It is also available in a liquid form that can be sprayed onto the roof. Unlike rubber, polymer does not have the potential to leak or shrink over time. Its many years of service as a waterproofing material have helped it grow in popularity as an alternative material. It is also cheaper to apply than many other products, making it more affordable for many homeowners.

What are the Two Main Types of Roof Waterproofing? 

The two main types of roof waterproofing roofs are liquid rubber waterproofing roofs and asphalt bitumen roofing systems. Liquid rubber roofing systems are applied with a special sprayer that contains a combination of water-resistant resins, a binder, and rubber compounds to create a waterproof layer. The advantage of using this type of system is the ease of installation, which means it can be installed on any type of surface. The disadvantage is that liquid rubber roofs tend to crack after some time due to condensation. A major benefit is the long-term cost savings that can be realized by having water leaks repaired instead of replacing entire roofs.

With a mixture of resins, a liquid rubber waterproofing roof coating, and tar/felt compounds, asphalt roof coatings extend their life for many years. This roof coating can be applied over a number of different surfaces, including shingles, tiles, asphalt, metal, and concrete. Although it has many years of practical use, it does have some drawbacks such as the difficulty of installing it over bare rocks or concrete. This is why many homeowners now prefer to use liquid rubber waterproofing roof coatings that can be applied over a variety of surfaces.

Choosing the right waterproofing solution for your roof is crucial to ensuring long-lasting protection against water damage and fire hazards. Whether you opt for asphalt, liquid rubber, bitumen, or polyurethane, each material offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and budgets. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will further enhance the durability of your roof. For more insights and guidance on roof waterproofing, check out our blog. If you need expert advice or a professional service for your roofing needs, feel free to contact us today.