A roof protects the most important part of any home or commercial building – the areas where people live and work. To ensure roofs remain weatherproof and durable, it is essential to apply high-quality coatings that shield roofs from the elements.
Elastomeric Coatings
Elastomeric coatings are among the most common and versatile roof coatings used today. Made from rubber polymers, these coatings stretch but also have the ability to snap back to their original shape. This elasticity allows the coating to flex with the natural movement of the roof without cracking or peeling. Elastomeric coatings are available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas.
Water-Based Elastomeric Coatings
Water-based elastomeric coatings have gained popularity due to their eco-friendly nature. Using water as the solvent results in very low VOC emissions, making these coatings safe for use near inhabited areas. They offer excellent adhesion to surfaces like metal, modBit, and aged coatings. Though not as durable as solvent-based versions, quality water-based elastomeric coatings can last 5-7 years with proper maintenance and recoat.
Solvent-Based Elastomeric Coatings
Long considered the gold standard of elastomeric coatings, solvent-based formulas offer maximum durability and flexibility. By using volatile organic compounds as carriers, these coatings penetrate substrates deeply and form very durable, long-lasting membranes. On aged roofs, solvent-based elastomerics can revitalize dried-out surfaces and extend the life of the roof significantly, sometimes by 10-15 years with a single application. They maintain flexibility in very hot and cold temperatures but have higher VOC emissions during application.
Acrylic Roof Coatings
As an inexpensive option, acrylic Roofing Coatings have become widely used for residential roofing applications. Made from thermoplastic polymers, acrylic coatings provide an affordable way to protect and enhance aged asphalt shingle and BUR (built-up roofing) surfaces. Though not as flexible as elastomeric coatings, acrylic formulas last 3-5 years when applied correctly. Some even come with a reflective component to keep the roof cooler in summer. Being water-based, acrylic coatings are an eco-friendly choice for re-roofing projects.
Benefits of Using Roof Coatings
Protects the Roof Membrane
Whether made from modified bitumen, thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), most modern commercial roof membranes have a lifespan of 15-25 years. Coatings provide an extra layer of weatherproof protection that shields the membrane from exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This extends the effective life of the roof significantly.
Seals Cracks and Seams
Over time, the constant expansion and contraction of roof surfaces due to temperature fluctuations can cause small cracks and fissures to develop. Left unaddressed, these lead to water entry that accelerates roof deterioration. Elastomeric coatings have self-sealing properties that fill and bond over minuscule cracks, sealing the roof permanently.
Reflects Harmful UV Rays
The sun’s UV radiation is one of the biggest causes of roof membrane degradation over time. Many professional-grade coating products contain reflective pigments that deflect a large percentage of these harmful UV rays. This protection results in considerably slower breakdown of the roof material. Some even qualify for ENERGY STAR ratings.
Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to full tear-offs and new roof installations, applying protective coatings and sealants is a much more affordable solution for maintaining a building’s existing roof. Coatings can potentially double or triple the lifespan of commercial properties, saving huge costs over time. They provide a high return on initial investment.
Environment-Friendly Option
With the availability of water-based acrylic and elastomeric coating technologies that emit very low or no VOCs, roof coatings are now a sustainable option for facilities looking to go green. Not only do they reduce air pollution during application, but their use also helps avoid dumping tear-off waste into landfills.
Choosing the Right Coating
With so many product choices available across different chemistries, selecting the ideal roof coating requires careful consideration of the type of substrate, age of the existing roof, prevalence of leaks or cracks, regional climate, budget, and lifecycle cost expectations. Consulting with an expert roofing contractor is highly recommended to pick the formulation that delivers best performance and value for money. Regular re-coating is also critical to maximize the benefits of these protective elastomeric coatings and shield buildings efficiently from weather elements over the long run.
Aged roofs in need of rejuvenation and newly installed roof membranes seeking extended protection should strongly consider high-quality coatings. By shielding roof surfaces, sealing cracks and joints, reflecting UV rays, and offering cost-effective solutions, modern elastomeric coatings have become indispensable for the upkeep and maintenance of commercial properties as well as residential homes. With proper evaluation and application, today’s innovative coating technologies can shield buildings efficiently and sustainably for many years to come.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it