If you’re trying to decide which roof type is right, you’ve likely seen a lot about rubber roofs. An Liquid Rubber RV Roof is found on various RVs, but not all rubber roofs are the same. The most common types of Liquid Rubber RV Roofs are EPDM and TPO. Before you choose which Liquid Rubber RV Roof you’d like, make sure you know the pros and cons of both.
EPDM
EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. It’s a flexible rubber-like membrane mostly found on flat RV roofs. It’s often made of recycled materials like tires, slate dust, and sawdust, and it’s one of the most used RV roof choices.
EPDM comes in both sheet and liquid form. The liquid option will dry to provide a flexible, waterproof seal. The sheets are dried and cured. This means they have less flexibility but are a bit sturdier than the liquid form.
Pros
EPDM roofs are lightweight and easy to install and repair if needed. The material is scratch-resistant and stands up well to scuffs and dents. If you choose the sheet form, it can be waterproof like the liquid because it’s made in large rolls that have fewer seams than other roof types.
EPDM provides an affordable roofing option for many RV owners. Plus, it can last 25 years or even longer if you maintain it properly.
Cons
EPDM is damage-resistant, but it isn’t damage-proof. It can be punctured fairly easily, especially by items like tree branches. A tree branch or sharp object can poke a hole into your roof. If this happens, you need to fix it immediately to prevent water damage.
EPDM can also be very slippery when wet because of its smooth surface. When cleaning your roof, you must be very careful walking around on it.
EPDM can also leave streaks down the sides of your RV. The substance can “shed” as a protective defense against UV damage, and the shedding can run down the sides of your vehicle. Proper cleaning and maintenance can help reduce this to a minimum.
TPO
TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin/thermoplastic olefin. It’s another common synthetic rubber material that has been popular in making RV roofs since the 1990s. TPO is often the first choice in an Liquid Rubber RV Roof material for most manufacturers.
TPO is a single-ply membrane that’s UV-resistant and affordable. It also has heat-welded seams, protecting it greatly against water and moisture of all kinds.
Pros
TPO roofs are very durable and mold resistant. They can also help prevent dirt from building up on your RV and have built-in UV protection that helps prevent sun-related wear.
TPO roofs are more difficult to damage than EPDM roofs. They can stand up against typical punctures from tree branches and other common elements.
TPO is also less slippery than EPDM because it has a texture like an orange peel. This makes it easier to walk on when wet. It’s also less likely to cause streaks down your RV’s sides when wet because it doesn’t shed like EPDM.
Cons
A TPO roof won’t last as long as an EPDM one because its chemical makeup will break down when exposed to the elements. Still, you should get 15 to 20 years out of it with the right inspections, care, and maintenance.
TPO may also show divots when things like hail or branches hit it. If there are severe divots, it can leave permanent damage.
Final Thoughts
Both EPDM and TPO make great choices for your Liquid Rubber RV Roof. Make sure that whichever you choose, you protect them with great products like RV Roof Magic sealant. This will ensure you get the best life and protection out of your roof, giving you years of enjoyment.