Rubber Roof Repair

The process begins with a conversation. We’ll discuss the symptoms you’ve noticed, such as leaks during heavy rain, visible cracks, or bubbling areas on the surface. We’ll also ask about the history of your roof — including past repairs, age, and any modifications — since these factors help us anticipate problem areas. This step ensures we arrive prepared with the right tools, materials, and expectations for your specific roof.

Our inspection is not just a quick glance — it’s a detailed, methodical evaluation of the entire roofing system. We check the membrane surface for punctures, worn spots, and shrinkage; we review all edges and termination points to ensure they are sealed; we inspect seams for gaps; and we look closely at penetrations (vents, HVAC units, pipes) where leaks are common. Drainage areas receive special attention, as water that lingers can lead to premature membrane failure.

We carefully document everything we find. This includes detailed notes, high-resolution photographs, and measurements of affected areas. This record serves two purposes: it gives you a clear understanding of the condition of your roof, and it provides us with a repair blueprint that keeps our work organized and consistent. This level of documentation also helps identify recurring patterns, such as seam separation always occurring in certain sections.

Repair success depends heavily on preparation. Rubber roofing materials require a clean, dry surface for adhesives and patches to properly bond. We use industry-approved cleaners and tools to remove dust, dirt, oils, and any loose debris from the membrane. For areas with moss, mildew, or algae buildup, we take care to treat and remove organic growth before continuing. Proper prep prevents premature adhesive failure and ensures a lasting repair.

For punctures, cracks, and tears, we use EPDM-compatible repair materials to ensure chemical compatibility and long-term durability. Patches are cut to the appropriate size, allowing for an overlap that creates a strong seal. The edges of each patch are rolled and pressed for uniform adhesion, and we apply sealant as needed to reinforce the bond. For larger damaged areas, we may replace entire sections of membrane rather than relying solely on patches, ensuring the repair is robust enough to handle years of weather exposure.

Seams are one of the most common failure points in rubber roofing systems. We strip away failing or brittle adhesives, then clean and prime the area before installing high-performance seam tape or applying a fresh bonding adhesive. Rolling pressure is applied along the seam to ensure a tight, uniform bond that resists peeling and water infiltration. If we find seams under stress from roof movement or shrinkage, we may adjust the alignment to reduce strain.

Blisters in rubber roofing occur when moisture or air becomes trapped under the membrane, causing a bubble-like rise. Left untreated, these can lead to tears and leaks. We carefully cut into blistered areas, allowing trapped moisture to fully evaporate. Depending on the extent of the issue, we either re-bond the membrane to the substrate or install a new membrane patch over the repaired section. This not only fixes the cosmetic issue but restores the structural integrity of the system.

Flashing plays a critical role in sealing vulnerable areas, such as where the roof meets walls, skylights, chimneys, or vent pipes. Damaged or loose flashing is removed and replaced with new materials cut precisely to fit each area. We secure these with the appropriate adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or termination bars to ensure they can withstand both wind uplift and thermal movement.

Poor drainage is a leading cause of premature roof deterioration. If we see standing water or “ponding” on your roof, we investigate why it’s occurring. Solutions can range from installing tapered insulation to adjusting drain placement or clearing blockages. The goal is to ensure water moves off your roof efficiently, reducing stress on seams and the membrane itself.

Our work doesn’t end when the last patch is applied. We complete a full walkthrough, checking every repaired area for secure adhesion, proper sealing, and watertight performance. This includes gently testing seams and flashings, confirming patches are flush, and ensuring that no part of the membrane is under tension. By the time we’re done, your rubber roofing system will be restored to a fully functional state, ready to handle the elements once again.