Roof coatings are liquid or semi-liquid materials that are applied to a roof surface to protect it from external damaging factors. Roof coatings are a popular solution for commercial and industrial building owners for enhancing the performance and lifespan of their roofing system. Coatings, when applied on roofing materials such as metal, EPDM, TPO or PVC, give an additional layer of protection against UV radiation, weathering, and other environmental effects.
Coatings 101
An understanding of what a coating is and how it works will quickly help you see and understand the value for yourself.
First, all coatings begin as a liquid. Some are applied with a spray gun, while others are hand-rolled into place. This liquid is applied over your existing system and covers your entire roofing structure. That includes flashings, around protrusions and even partially up the parapet walls.
As the fluid dries, it seeps into any cracks, crevices, or tiny imperfections in the existing roofing system, sealing them tight.
Once dry, a seamless, monolithic layer of waterproof protection exists across the entire roofing area. As the primary location for leak development are seams, the value of the coating is immediately obvious.
Additionally, most coatings are highly reflective. They have been shown to reflect up to 85% of solar heat away from the roof of your building. This characteristic can reduce your cooling costs up to 30% or more, while also reducing the load on your HVAC unit(s).
Another undeniable benefit of a coating system is the ability to be re-applied. As long as the structure remains sound, your coating system can be re-applied as necessary. This not only extends the protection, but each re-application also extends the warranty!
Advantages of Roof Coatings
Extended lifespan: Roof coatings can extend the lifespan of your roof by years. By protecting the underlying material from UV radiation, weathering, and other environmental factors, the longevity is increased. This helps save you money by reducing the need for costly repairs or premature roof replacement. This also translates into profitability and efficiency of resources for your business.
Energy efficiency: Coatings improve the energy efficiency of your roof by reducing heat transfer through the roof. This lowers energy costs and reduces the carbon footprint of the building. In addition, some coatings are designed to be highly reflective, which can further reduce heat transfer and keep the building cooler.
Cost-effective: Coatings are a cost-effective alternative to roof replacement. They can be applied to existing roofing systems, saving you money on labor and materials. In addition, coatings help extend the lifespan of the roofing system, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Low maintenance: Coated roofs require less upkeep than uncoated roofs. Coatings, which operate as a layer on top of the roofing material, protect it from dirt, debris, and other impurities, minimizing the need for cleaning and maintenance.
Improved performance: Coatings improve the performance of EPDM, TPO and PVC roofing systems by reducing leaks, improving reflectivity, and enhancing weather resistance. This helps ensure that your roofing system performs as intended and provides reliable protection for the building and all commercial activities.
Not all roofs are good candidates for a coating. To see if yours qualifies, call our experts at 717-682-8923 and schedule a consultation.