Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s face it, replacing a roof is not as exciting or as visible a change as a kitchen or bathroom remodel. But it is a considerable home improvement investment. A new roof is a once, or maybe twice in a lifetime investment, so many home-owners are not very familiar with the process. Here you will find answers to common questions we get, and we encourage you to contact us if you have any further questions.
Why do I need a new roof?
I’ve sealed my roof regularly since it was new. Why do I need a Perma-Seal roof? When your mobile was new it was important to seal your roof to keep it from rusting. Sealing also will eliminate small leaks but eventually your roof will become too old to seal and will need to be replaced.
I’ve coated my roof and it’s still leaking. What are my options?
You need some type of roof-over. They fall into three basic categories. 1.) A wood framed roof over. 2.) A metal roof-over or 3.) A single-ply membrane roof over. The Perma-Seal roof falls into the third category. It consists of a layer of 2” rigid EPS foam board insulation over which the rubber membrane is installed.
What are the advantages of a Perma-Seal roof?
The wood framed roof is very heavy and could overload your mobile home. The metal roof-over is generally more expensive. The Perma-Seal roof is lightweight; it’s insulated, durable and the least expensive of the three options.
I want to save money on my utility bills and make my mobile warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Then the Perma-Seal roof is the perfect choice! A layer of high-grade 2” rigid EPS insulation is installed under the rubber membrane. Your mobile will be warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. We typically see a 30% savings in your fuel bills. Heat rises so the insulation will keep more of your heat inside where it belongs.
Won’t the black membrane make my mobile hotter in the summer?
No, the insulation will keep out the heat. Your mobile will actually be cooler.
Can I have a white roof?
There are some manufacturers who make a white EPDM membrane. They do so by removing some compounds from the EPDM such as carbon black and substituting other compounds such as titanium dioxide. In our experience, the white roofs are not as durable as the black roofs so we don’t install them.
Does the rubber membrane dry out and crack?
No. This is a special type of rubber called EPDM. It is formulated specifically for roofs and will not dry out or crack. Billions of square feet of EPDM have been installed in the U.S. on some of our most famous buildings.
What time of year can the Perma-Seal membrane be installed?
The Perma-Seal roofing system can be installed virtually any time of the year as long as it’s not raining or the roof is not covered with snow.
For more answers to frequently asked questions see the EPDM Roofing Association’s website at:
http://www.epdmroofs.org/faqs/index.shtml