With winter approaching, it may be time to consider whether your roof could benefit from application of a liquid rubber roof coating system. Rain, wind, sleet, ice and snow all take their toll on the roof, no matter what material was used to create it. Whether for the roof that protects your home, or the roof on a commercial building, consider a coating to extend the life of the roof and protect the inside of the building.
Coatings for Flat Roofs
Commercial buildings, condos and apartment complexes often have flat roofs covered in tar, bare metal or rubber. They are especially susceptible to water pooling and snow or ice buildup that will then melt over time, possibly turning small issues into leaks and water damage. Applying a liquid rubber coating can help protect your business or commercial property from damages caused by these and other weather related issues. A small leak or soft spot on the roof can turn into a large flood with the introduction of snow or severe rain. The additional protection of a rubber coating for a commercial roof can keep the contents of the building safe and dry.
You can find commercial roofing systems in liquid copolymer rubber based formulas, acrylic low odor formulations and a clear 55% solids acrylic version that can be used on skylights and windows. There is also a liquid rubber roof coating system in white for commercial buildings in warmer climates that are at risk for prolonged UV exposure and heat. Using a white color roofing paint for coating can reflect up to 89% of the thermal heat and 82% of the solar/UV spectrum that can in turn reduce energy bills by up to 40%.
Coatings for Residential Roofs
For residential homes that feature non-flat roofs and shingles you can use a clear glaze waterproofing sealer system that protect and rejuvenate shingles. Many homes are roofed with asphalt tiles. When a leak develops, the homeowner either replaces the faulty shingles or hires someone to replace them. It is possible, with a roof coating to extend the life of a worn out roof. Products that create a water barrier while still allowing water vapor to escape are best, since they don’t trap damaging moisture under the shingles that can result in damage to the roof boards and beams supporting the roof.
Two coats are usually recommended. The first coat will be mostly absorbed by the tiles, and the second coat will provide protection. The roof tiles will look new again, and may have a slight sheen. You can increase the sheen with additional coats.
Preparation for the Best Results
Coating your roof, whether flat or pitched, requires no special skills; it is as easy as painting. The coating can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayer. However, like any other project, preparation is the key to a professional quality, long lasting result. You need to make sure the roof is clean, with no dirt, mildew, mold or moss. It must be dry, and make sure there is no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours. Don’t apply the coating if the temperature is less than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
The coating will not be able to fix large cracks or leaks, so make sure they are patched with paintable products specifically for your roof before you start. Check the flashing to see if any tiles need to be re-sealed or if any gaps need caulk. Pay special attention to dormers, pipes extending out of the roof, skylights and chimneys, all areas that may need additional attention before applying the coating.
Once you have taken care of the cleaning, repairing and sealing of your roof, you can rest easy this winter knowing that your buildings and the people and things they house will be safe, warm and dry.
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