Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Elastomeric roof coatings can extend the life of a roof by up to 20 years. It protects the roof from further damage and comes in a variety of coatings. You can choose asphalt, acrylic, silicone, or polyurethane. Most of the time, the coatings are applied to the existing roof with a roller or as spray. It takes multiple gallons for each 100 square feet to provide a complete seal on the roof.
Roof coatings aren’t the same as paint. They are thicker and provide protection from the weather. Coatings can prevent damage from wind, water, and UV rays. They have elasticity and can seal small cracks in the roof. Roof coatings provide insulation in cold weather and help maintain the desired temperature inside the building, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Elastomeric roof coatings require some prep work before they can be painted on the roof. The roof must be cleaned completely to ensure proper adhesion. The installer will inspect the roof for damage to determine if it needs significant repairs beyond the scope of the coating. The installer will need to apply a coat of primer to the roof before adding the coating, depending on the material of the roof. Concrete, metal, brick, masonry, block, and gypsum require primer.
Types of Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Several options are available for elastomeric roof coatings. Silicone is one popular choice because they are completely waterproof and durable. They require minimal maintenance to reduce the overall cost. Silicone is resistant to the elements and has a fast cure time. This product works on various surfaces, including TPO and EPDM roofs. This coating is particularly good for water collection, two-roofing systems, and complex structures.
Acrylic roof coatings are also known for durability and for stability with UV rays, preventing damage from long-term exposure to the sun. They are flexible, which makes them an ideal choice in areas with low temperatures. This type of coating is ideal for roofs with smooth asphalt, EPDM and TPO roofs, PVC roofs, and roofing systems with modified bitumen. If your goal is to use fewer coats, have minimal water accumulation, and minimal rust on a metal roof with a limited budget, acrylic may be your best choice of coating.
SEBS roof coatings, or Styrene Ethylbutlyene Styrene coatings, are made specifically for metal roofs. They have a reflective surface that deflects sunlight to promote a more even temperature inside the building. This type of coating also creates a watertight barrier to protect the underlaying roof. The coating can accommodate contractions or expansions without damaging the roof. SEBS coatings can withstand roof traffic because they have high tensile strength. They are ideal for use in cold climates and can prevent corrosion of the metal roof. The formulations of SEBS coatings include antioxidants to extend the life of the roof coating
What to Know About Application of Roof Coatings
Coatings aren’t an alternative solution to repair for a leaky roof. While they can cover seams and small cracks, they won’t undo the effects of deterioration or stop serious leaks. Before applying the coating, the roof should be repaired. This is why a complete inspection is necessary before any work begins. Use materials that match the existing roof in your repairs to provide the best waterproofing system. Once you’ve made the repairs and had a satisfactory inspection, you can apply for a No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranty, which can be in effect for up to 20 years.
Have a moisture scan performed as part of the inspection because any moisture that is trapped under a coating can reduce its effectiveness. Any wet materials should be replaced before you move on to application of the roof coating. Know what type of cleansers can be used with roofing material before you clean the roof.
Types of Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Check metal roofs for rust before you apply the roof coating. Silicones and acrylics may need to be applied before you move onto the next step. If you use SEBS coatings, you don’t need to apply special rust treatment unless the rust is severe.
TPO roof coatings can be challenging because it can be difficult to adhere to the roof unless you use the proper treatment. This process includes sanding the roof’s surface. You may also need to apply a primer to enhance adhesion of the coating.
With a new asphalt and modified bitumen roof, you will need to wait at least 90 days before applying a coating. For older roofs, you may need to apply a stain blocker prior to the coating. This helps prevent the roof from staining the coating.
Because PVC roofs are rigid, they are extra challenging to coat. It should be aged before attempting to coat the roof. EPDM roof coatings are also not as compatible with roof coatings. The right solvent must be used to get it to adhere.
Enjoy the Benefits of Roof Coatings
Coating your roof can provide many benefits. It helps keep the building cooler with a reflective surface that deflects the sun’s rays and winter’s cold. Because it allows the building to maintain a more consistent temperature, roof coatings help lower energy costs and consumption. As it increases the Energy Star rating of the building, it can increase property value and improve the eco-friendly reputation of the business.
Coatings extend the life of your roof and protect against leaks. You’ll likely have fewer repairs to pay for, which lowers your maintenance costs.
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Choose a Roof Coating Contractor
If you want to have your roof coated, you should work with a professional contractor who has experience with roof coatings. They should know what type of coating is best for your roof. They should be insured, bonded, and licensed with certification by the manufacturer of the product. They should have experience in working with your type of roof and show you pictures of completed projects. They should also have expertise in working with insurance claims.
You can count on Weather Restoration Group to help you care for your roof. Contact us to find out more about roof coating and a free consultation.
