You might have heard about elastomeric roof coatings as a solution for extending your roof’s life and cutting cooling costs, but what exactly is it? Essentially, it’s a flexible layer that flat roof owners widely use to protect their roofs from harsh weather conditions.
But as you know, roofing is a significant investment and whatever you do to improve it should be done with extreme care.
If you are also searching for ways to improve your flat roof and would like to know if an elastomeric coating is the right fit, you are at the right place.
Today we will explore the details of this coating, including the application process and potential pitfalls.
Understanding Elastomeric Roof Coatings
An elastomeric roof coating is a flexible, rubber-like protective layer applied to flat roofs to extend their lifespan and improve energy efficiency. Made from resins and synthetic polymers, it creates a waterproof barrier that expands and contracts with temperature changes, preventing leaks and weather damage.
The coating is elastic, which means it won’t crack or peel easily. Additionally, its reflective properties help reduce cooling costs by deflecting the sun’s rays.
Overall, it’s a smart investment for keeping your roof in top condition.
Composition and Types Of Roof Coatings
To fully appreciate its benefits, you need to understand the composition and types of elastomeric roof coatings available. These coatings are primarily made of polymers like acrylic, silicone, or polyurethane, which provide flexibility and durability.
Acrylic coatings are water-based and offer excellent UV resistance, making them ideal for reflective roofs. Silicone coatings are highly resistant to weathering and ponding water, perfect for rainy climates. Polyurethane coatings are known for their toughness and abrasion resistance and are suitable for high-traffic areas.
You can also find variants like butyl and SEBS (styrene ethylene butylene styrene), each with unique properties. Butyl coatings excel in waterproofing, while SEBS coatings are noted for their elasticity and strength.
Also Read: Different Types Of Roof Coatings & Their Popular Products
How To Apply Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Applying elastomeric roof coatings involves several critical steps to ensure the coating adheres properly and performs effectively.
Clean the Roof Surface: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the roof to eliminate dirt, debris, and any old coatings. Use a pressure washer for stubborn grime to ensure a clean, smooth surface.
Inspect and Repair: Examine the roof for cracks, damage, or any areas of concern. Repair these issues before applying the coating to ensure a solid, uniform base.
Apply Primer: If recommended by the coating manufacturer, apply a primer to improve the adhesion of the elastomeric coating.
Apply the Coating: Use a roller, brush, or sprayer to evenly apply the elastomeric coating. Ensure complete and uniform coverage. Multiple coats may be necessary, so follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the number of coats and drying times.
Allow to Dry: Let each coat dry thoroughly before applying the next one. Follow the recommended drying times to achieve the best results and ensure the coating’s effectiveness.
Benefits of Elastomeric Coatings
Create A Seamless, Waterproof Layer On Your Roof
One of the greatest advantages of elastomeric roof coatings is their ability to provide a seamless, waterproof barrier that protects against leaks and weather damage. As you know, flat roofing systems have little or no slope and are more vulnerable to developing roof leaks. But when you apply an elastomeric coating, you get an additional layer of protection that effectively protects against rain, snow, and other weather-related damage, ensuring that your roof remains intact and secure.
Boost Your Roof’s UV Reflection and Energy Efficiency
One of the standout benefits of elastomeric coatings is their ability to reflect harmful UV rays. By bouncing sunlight away from the roof, these coatings reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the building, leading to lower indoor temperatures. This reflective property not only enhances the comfort of you and your employees but also significantly reduces the need for air conditioning, resulting in lower energy bills.
Elastomeric Roofing Coatings Are Highly Flexible
Elastomeric coatings are engineered to be highly flexible, allowing them to expand and contract with the natural movement of the roof due to temperature fluctuations. This flexibility prevents the formation of cracks, splits, or other forms of damage that can occur in more rigid roofing materials. As a result, elastomeric coatings can extend the life of your roof.
They Are Environmentally Friendly
We have already discussed how elastomeric coatings help save on energy bills, but there’s more. These are often formulated with low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which means they have a reduced environmental impact during application and throughout their lifespan. This eco-friendly aspect makes them an appealing choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
You Can Apply Elastomeric Coatings On Various Membranes
Elastomeric coatings are easy to apply and can be used on nearly every type of flat roofing material, including metal, single-ply membranes, and concrete. Their strong adhesion and flexibility make them an excellent choice for flat roofs where durability and waterproofing are essential. The coatings provide consistent coverage that enhances the roof’s protection against weather-related damage. This versatility makes elastomeric coatings a reliable option for various flat roofing systems.
Drawbacks to Consider Before You Install Elastomeric Coatings
Despite their many advantages, elastomeric roof coatings come with some drawbacks that you should consider.
Cost Can Be Higher
Elastomeric roof coatings often have a higher upfront cost compared to other roof coating products and some traditional roofing materials. Despite the potential for long-term savings due to their durability and energy efficiency, this initial expense can be a barrier for some businesses or building managers.
However, as we can see, the overall effect of these roof coatings is highly recommended. Weighing the initial investment against future benefits is crucial when considering this option.
Application Process
Applying elastomeric coatings can be challenging, as it requires a clean, dry surface and specific weather conditions for proper adhesion. Any deviation from these requirements, such as moisture or improper temperatures, can negatively impact the coating’s effectiveness, leading to potential issues and reducing the overall performance of the roof.
Quality Variability
The performance of elastomeric coatings can vary significantly between products. Though a quite attractive innovation, elastomeric roof coatings are still a bit new in the market and there can be some discrepancies in the products. Some coatings may struggle under extreme temperatures or intense UV exposure, affecting their long-term durability. It’s important to select a high-quality product suited to your specific environmental conditions to ensure effective and lasting protection.
Maintaining Your Roof After Applying Roof Coatings
A lot relies on your roof, so it’s important to take care of your roofing system, be it your home or your business. The same goes for the coatings, too.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep elastomeric coatings functioning optimally. This involves periodic inspections and reapplications of the coating to preserve its protective qualities. Most elastomeric roof coatings last for 15-25 years, but during this time they may need re-application too.
Without consistent upkeep, the coating may lose its effectiveness, potentially compromising the roof’s protection and requiring more frequent repairs.
Install Elastomeric Roof Coatings From The Best Roofing Experts In WNY!
Elastomeric roof coatings offer a robust and flexible solution for protecting your roof. As you can see, it’s a worthwhile investment for long-term roof care, offering peace of mind against leaks and weather damage. However, to maximize the benefits, it’s important to hire professionals from Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company. We offer expert commercial roof coating services that you can trust.
Don’t overlook its potential to enhance your roof’s performance. Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 to learn more about our services.