Choosing Roof Coatings
The weather in New Jersey can wear down the roof of a commercial structure. From the cold rain, ice, and snow to the strong summer sun, and everything in between, they often need replacing too soon. And that is just one of the many purposes of a roof coating!
What are the benefits of having a roof coating?
There are a few benefits to roof coatings:
Increased Lifespan
The right type of roof coating on a commercial roof will extend the lifespan of the original roof, even an aged and damaged roof. Roof coating adds another layer of protection with a high level of performance that guards against weathering and more.
Debris Reduction
Roofing debris accounts for almost 40% of landfill waste. With properly applied roof coating, you’ll delay adding to the landfills by extending the lifespan of the existing roof.
Energy efficiency increased
A high-quality roof coating that is properly applied will increase the building’s energy efficiency, lowering cooling and heating bills.
Improve the visual
As buildings age, the roof begins looking old and worn. A roof coating will refresh the roof, giving the entire structure an improved look. With the range of colors available, you can choose a roof coating that matches the architecture.
What are the different types of roof coatings?
Roof coatings offer several benefits and have proven to be a practical measure for preventing heat loss and protecting the roof against severe weather conditions and more. But if the right roof coating isn’t used, it can have an adverse effect on the roof. An experienced commercial roofing contractor will inspect your roof and advise which of the following roof coatings is best:
Silicone
Within this type of roof coating, the more popular choices are acetoxy-cure and oxime-cure silicone. Acetoxy-cure is affordable and resistant to discoloring and UV rays. The oxime-cure is more expensive but is corrosion resistant and can withstand most weather conditions but is easy to fade from the UV rays.
Cool Roof
For energy efficiency and keep the roof cool with pigments in the coating material, making it resilient against heat and UV rays. This helps lower the electric bills because the air conditioning doesn’t need to run as much. Cool roof coating is also chemical resistant and water damage.
Acrylic
This roof coating is a seamless coating material that is produced from an elastomeric membrane. The durability, inexpensive and lightweight features make this an extremely popular choice. It is resistant to dirt and UV rays, protects the roof from seam leaks, and withstands the weather.
Single-Ply Membrane
This type of roof coating is pre-manufactured and is recommended for low-sloped roofing. Easy application makes installing it in uniform layers easy.
How often should a roof be coated?
Experts recommend having a roof coating applied every 5 years. This will maintain the roof’s heat reflection properties and ensure its waterproof stability.
When should I coat my roof?
The following five signs are an indication that it is time for roof coating:
Roof Leak
As soon as you notice a roof leak, it is time for roof coating. The longer you ignore the leak, the more damage is happening to your roof. If damage is severe enough, roof coating won’t be enough.
Age
Excluding metal roofing, which can last 50 years or longer, most low-slope roofing will have a lifespan between 7 years and 16 years. If your roof has reached 7 years, a roof coating will extend the lifespan, delaying a new roof right away.
Bare Spots
When roofing has started showing bare spots, or the scrim is coming through, it is time for a roof coating to be installed.
Cracking
When the current roofing is starting to have alligatoring, it is time for a roof coating.
Does roof coating stop leaks?
Yes, silicone roof coating seals up small cracks and holes, stopping any existing roof leaks. There isn’t any need to locate the leaks, just have the total roof surface for protection.
What is the difference between roof sealant and roof coating?
A roof sealant creates a watertight seal along the edges, all around air vents, vent pipes, and over fasteners and screw heads. Applying a fiberglass roof coating over the total roof surface will fill in cracks and create a watertight surface.
How do you maintain a roof coating?
The professional roofing contractor you choose to install your roof coating will probably offer an annual roof cleaning service. To do your own maintenance, you’ll want to sweep the roof of any debris and dirt, then using a power wash will get any algae or moss off the roof surface.
At The End Of The Day: Are roof coatings worth it?
Yes, a roof coating can help the reflectivity and reduce the cost to cool the building. It extends the lifespan and assists in waterproofing.
