Roof Coatings

Coating is gaining popularity mainly because of its cost-effectiveness and less time-consuming installation. While there are many types of coatings, we mostly work with acrylic and silicone. Acrylic coating is better for roofs that experience dry climate, while a silicone coating would be the best choice for a humid climate.

Roof coating has the appearance of paint in a can. It has the same thickness as paint, which makes it brushable or sprayable. It can also be applied with a roller, just like a house paint — but it’s a very different material and these coatings are applied 5 to 10 times thicker than a house paint. The roof coating must be able to withstand many external stresses and water contact for an extended time because it sits on a relatively horizontal surface.

Unlike paint, roof coating:

• Is resistant to ponding water
• Has reflective properties
• Is flexible
• Has the ability to expand and contract
• Is resistant to foot traffic

Acrylic Coating

This is a water-based coating ideal for high UV environments where you want a reflective roof. Superior adhesion quality makes it durable against windy and stormy environments. This is a popular choice with metal roofs.

Acrylic roof coatings are usually white in order to reduce the roof’s temperature. That, coupled with the UV blocking properties, reduces deterioration of the roofing membrane and allows it to last longer. The white color also reflects as much as 85% of the sunlight’s heat, which in turn reduces air conditioning costs as there’s less heat transfer into the building.

Silicone Coating

This is the product typically spec’d for flat or low pitch roofs. Its smooth surface will not promote mold or mildew because it is an inorganic product. It forms a seamless membrane to help withstand ponding water. When a roof is in good structural condition but is leaking or sagging and needs restoration, it is best to choose a silicone coating.

Silicone roof coatings have a solid material component which makes for a quicker installation since it needs fewer coats to achieve the same thickness or more than other coatings.

The Benefits of Roof Coating

• When sprayed, the coating melts together so there are no seams or patches around those hard-to-seal and hard-to-reach areas, creating superior leak resistance
• Roof restoration means no costly tear-off. This means less down time for your operation and reduction in landfill waste
• It’s an elastic product which allows it to stretch and return to its original shape
• The glossy finish provides excellent UV protection which can add years to your roof and helps reduce roof maintenance costs
• Highly reflective roof coatings can ultimately lower your energy utility costs because they deliver a cooler environment inside the building

Once you dip into the world of roof coatings, you are likely to be confused about what material will work best. Give South Side a call and we’d be happy to explain which roof system will work best for your structure.