Over the years, there have been several advancements in the roofing industry, including with roof coatings. These materials, whether for pitched or flat roofs, are stronger and more flexible, and this includes roof coatings.
Roof coatings play a crucial role in maintaining the longevity and efficiency of a home’s roofing system. They provide a protective layer that shields the roof from the elements, helping to prevent leaks, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of the roofing material.
However, just like the choice of materials, there are different types of roof coatings available. Each of these coatings has different features and caters to specific roofs. Today, we will talk about three types of roof coatings and some of the best products on the market.
#1 Acrylic Roof Coatings
To kick start our list, we have the popular acrylic roof coatings. These are water-based solutions known for their excellent UV resistance and flexibility. Developed to provide a more environmentally friendly option compared to solvent-based coatings, acrylics gained popularity due to their ease of application and cleanup. They are quite durable and affordable, too. Acrylic coatings are mostly available in white and form a seamless membrane over the roof, protecting it from harsh weather conditions.
One area this roofing coating can lack is standing water resistance. Acrylic roof coatings do not withstand ponding water as well as other coating types. However, there are elastomeric roof coatings available that have an acrylic base and are stronger against standing water and thermal expansion.
Suitability Of Acrylic Roof Coatings
Types of roof coatings made from acrylic bases are suitable for a variety of roof types, including the following:
- Metal roofs
- Modified bitumen
- Single-ply membranes.
They are particularly effective in climates with moderate temperatures and high sun exposure due to their reflective properties.
Best Acrylic Coatings
Here are some of the top-rated acrylic-based coatings that you can consider:
#2 Silicone Roof Coatings
Silicone roof coatings have made a splash on the market. A silicone-coated roof shows exceptional water resistance and a longer lifespan. You can apply silicone roof coating in various ways and most coatings become waterproof almost immediately, protecting the roof from ponding water.
They not only show great resistance against leaks and ponding water, but silicone roof coatings fare well against extreme weather conditions and are also quite reflective. They can have thermal reflectance of up to 90%.
Silicone coatings are highly flexible and can withstand significant temperature fluctuations without cracking or peeling. Their long-lasting performance and ease of application make them a popular choice for home or business owners seeking reliable roof protection. But with all these features comes a higher price too. These coatings are the priciest among all the types of coatings.
Suitability Of Silicone Roof Coatings
As we have covered, silicone roof coatings are a top choice for many reasons. The coating is suitable for most roofing materials including:
- EPDM
- TPO
- Metal Roofs
Also, it does not take long to cure, and some options are waterproofing in just a few hours.
This roof coating adheres exceptionally well to a variety of surfaces, including concrete, metal, single-ply membranes, and modified bitumen. You can also use this on vertical walls and masonry.
#3 Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Last but not the least is the durable polyurethane roof coating. Also known as urethane roof coatings, this is a monolithic type of roof coating that adds a strong shield over your existing roofing system.
These coatings provide excellent resistance to impacts, abrasion, and chemical exposure, making them ideal for industrial and commercial roofing applications. Polyurethane coatings are available in both aromatic and aliphatic formulations. The former is generally used as a base coat with the latter being used for the top coat as it offers superior UV resistance and color retention.
Suitability Of Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Polyurethane coatings are now suitable for different types of commercial roofs such as:
- Metal Roofs
- Single-ply membranes
- Concrete Roofs
- SPF Roofs
They are particularly beneficial for roofs exposed to heavy foot traffic or mechanical equipment thanks to their superior impact resistance.
#4 Butyl Rubber Coating
Liquid butyl rubber roof coating stands out for its incredible tensile strength and high puncture resistance. This synthetic rubber compound creates a thick, durable membrane that’s up to 10 times thicker than many standard coatings, providing robust protection for your roof.
Unlike other types of roofing coatings, liquid butyl rubber is particularly effective at handling building movement and settling. Its unique chemical structure allows for superb elongation, meaning it can stretch significantly without breaking or losing its protective properties.
Suitability Of Liquid Butyl Rubber Roof Coating
Liquid butyl rubber coating works particularly well on:
- Flat or Low-Slope Roofs
- Industrial Roofing
#5 Cool Roof Coatings
Though the three types of roof coatings we talked about above are the major options, there is a lot of talk about reflective roof coatings, too. Also known as cool roof coatings, these are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials. These coatings are typically white or light-colored and contain reflective pigments that help reduce the roof’s temperature. Reflective coatings can significantly lower cooling costs, enhance indoor comfort, and extend the life of the roofing material by reducing thermal stress.
Suitability Of Cool Roof Coatings
- Asphalt Shingles
- Metal Roofs
- Flat Roofs
Best Roof Coatings For Your Property
Now that we know all the types of roof coatings, let us move to which roof coating is the best in the market:
Best Acrylic Roof Coatings
Jetcoat Cool King Reflective Acrylic Roof Coating
This acrylic roof coating from industry leader Jetcoat has become one of the most popular roof coatings in recent years. The Jetcoat Cool King Reflective Acrylic Roof Coating is a premium elastomeric roof coating designed to provide superior protection and energy efficiency. This fortified, waterproof acrylic coating offers exceptional reflective properties, effectively reducing roof temperatures and improving the energy efficiency of your building. You can use this on single-ply membranes such as EPDM, TPO, and modified bitumen.
Henry 587 Dura-Brite White 100% Acrylic Elastomeric Reflective Roof Coating
The next product comes from a widely recognized name in the industry, Henry, and has extremely positive reviews on top sites such as Home Depot and Amazon. The 587 Dura Brite Elastomeric Roof Coating is made from 100% acrylic latex and is designed to provide exceptional protection and energy-saving benefits. This bright white acrylic coating maintains its reflective properties, deflecting over 70% of UV rays even after three years of exposure. You will also get a 10-year warranty from the manufacturer.
You can also try another reputed Henry roof coating, 687 Enviro-White 100% Acrylic Elastomeric Reflective Roof Coating.
Best Silicone Roof Coatings
Henry 887 Tropi-Cool® 100% Silicone White Roof Coating
If you want a silicone roof coating that is an all-rounder, then 887 Tropi-Cool® Silicone Roof Coating is your best bet.
This Henry roof coating offers superior water resistance, preventing leaks and damage from ponding water. This coating is 100% waterproof and becomes rain-safe in around 15 minutes. Its unique dirt resistance formula and high UV resistance ensure the roof remains protected from stains and sun damage. This product is available in multiple sizes and color options, too.
TPR #924 Eterna-Sil Premium Silicone Roof Coating
Next on our list is TPR #924 Eterna-Sil Premium Silicone Roof Coating. This high-performance, solvent-free formulation offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal choice for both commercial and residential applications. Its moisture cure technology helps to form a robust, weather-resistant seal.
Best Polyurethane Roof Coatings
GacoFlex U91
The premier GacoFlex U91 is a versatile, single-component aromatic waterproofing membrane designed for metal, asphalt, and single-ply roofing systems. This high-performance urethane coating excels in rejuvenating existing roofs, offering exceptional flexibility with 350% elongation and impressive tensile strength. It’s also versatile when it comes to application methods, as you can use a brush, roller, or sprayer, adapting to various project needs. It also comes with a 20-year warranty when used with qualifying top coats, giving you decades of peace of mind.
Rust-Oleum 1085 Polyurethane Roof Coating
The 1085 Polyurethane Roof Coating by Rust-Oleum is a high-performance, single-component roofing solution. This type of roof coating is suitable for various surfaces, including single-ply membranes, built-up roofs, modified bitumen, and more. Its standout features include exceptional resistance to ponding water and over 300% elongation, ensuring long-lasting protection against leaks and weather-induced damage. Available in 5-gallon containers, this moisture-cured urethane coating offers easy application.
We Install Different Types Of Roof Coatings In WNY
We hope our guide to the types of roof coatings has helped you understand the options available for protecting and extending the life of your roof. Whether you’re considering an acrylic coating or a durable silicone roof coating, hiring a professional roofing contractor is essential to ensure correct application and optimal performance.
At Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company LLC, we specialize in professional roof coating applications. Our team of experienced contractors is trained in the latest application techniques for all types of roof coatings.
Other than roof coatings, we also provide other commercial roofing services, including repairs, replacements, and new installations. Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 to learn more.