Roof coatings are an economical way to maintain and restore a commercial roof. Adverse weather conditions such as excessive water, wind and UV light are factors that can lead to structural damage. When applied correctly, roof coatings can provide added durability, energy savings and extended life. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to protect your existing substrate, here are some reasons you should consider the benefits of commercial roof coatings.
What Is a Roof Coating?
A roof coating is a monolithic, fluid-applied roofing membrane. It acts as an extra layer of protection and is placed on an already completed roof to increase its lifespan. Many coatings are elastomeric, meaning they have elastic properties that allow them to stretch and contract to accommodate building movement and thermal expansion. You can extend the life of the roof with elastomeric coating due to the membrane’s strong water-resistant properties.
What Kinds of Roofs Can Be Coated?
Many types of roofing materials can be coated, including spray polyurethane, metal, modified bitumen and single-ply membranes. Ballasted and gravel surfaced roofs may be able to accept coating if they’ve been pretreated.
How Are Roof Coatings Applied?
The most common types of coatings are asphalt, acrylic, polyurethane, wood, silicone and built-up roofing. They’re designed to be sprayed, rolled or brushed directly onto your existing roof surface after a primer has been applied. Coatings have strong adhesion and a seamless design to fully seal and waterproof the roof. They’re applied to low slope roofs on commercial buildings to prevent water, physical and chemical damage.
Advantages of Roof Coatings
1. Sustainability — A reflective or white coating can absorb less heat and reflect more sunlight than a standard roof. A lower rooftop temperature can help keep the building’s interior cooler and reduce energy costs. Roof coatings for sustainability also can lower air conditioning usage and cut energy consumption, which can help a business save money and reduce its carbon footprint.
2. Weather Protection — Applying a roof coating creates a resilient barrier between the uppermost layers of your roofing material and the elements. Roof coatings for weather protection blunt the impact of hail, rain, sunlight and physical damage. This additional layer also can protect the roof from leaks and moderate water ponding as well as prevent mold and mildew damage.
3. Economical – A durable coating application lends strength and longevity to the roof while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the building. A coating may extend the life of a roof by as much as 10 years. This can help building owners avoid the staggering cost of replacing a roof system. Moreover, coatings are renewable and can be reapplied every eight to 10 years.
4. Productivity – Replacing or repairing your roof can inconvenience your business with noise, dust and other annoyances. Roof coating applications generally involve little or no noise, odor or construction debris, and the process generally takes less than a day.
How to Hire a Professional Roof Coating Contractor
Roof coatings are available in many varieties and applications. Hiring a qualified professional is strongly recommended for coating large roofs, especially if there are issues with existing leaks and wet insulation. Additional roof coating products may be needed to reinforce damaged or leak-prone problem areas.
At Raider Painting, we’ll work with you to evaluate your existing commercial structure and design a coating solution that meets the needs of your facility. Our elastomeric and roof coating services protect your building’s exterior from the elements and provide you with peace of mind. Since 1983, we’ve had hands-on experience with a wide variety of facilities, including flagship stores, indoor stadiums, warehouses and manufacturing plants.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to extend the life of your roof, contact Raider Painting today.
