Elastomeric roof coatings are an excellent way to protect your commercial or residential roof from the damaging effects of weather, UV rays, and other environmental factors. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about elastomeric roof coatings, including their benefits, types, application, and maintenance.
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What is Elastomeric Roof Coating?
Elastomeric roof coatings are a type of coating that is applied to roofs to provide a waterproof layer that can expand and contract with the roof’s movement. The term “elastomeric” comes from the coating’s ability to stretch and return to its original shape, making it an excellent choice for roofs that experience extreme temperature changes.
Benefits of Elastomeric Roof Coating
There are several benefits of elastomeric roof coatings, including:
- Waterproofing: Elastomeric roof coatings are designed to provide a waterproof layer to protect your roof from water damage, leaks, and mold growth.
- Energy Efficiency: Elastomeric roof coatings can help reduce your energy bills by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat transfer, which can help keep your building cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- UV Protection: Elastomeric roof coatings can protect your roof from the damaging effects of UV rays, which can cause cracking and deterioration.
- Longevity: Elastomeric roof coatings can extend the life of your roof by protecting it from environmental factors, reducing wear and tear, and preventing leaks.
Types of Elastomeric Roof Coating
There are several types of elastomeric roof coatings, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Here are the most common types:
- Acrylic elastomeric roof coatings are a popular choice due to their affordability, durability, and ease of application. They provide excellent protection against water damage, UV rays, and other environmental factors. They are suitable for a variety of roof types, including sloped and flat roofs.
- Silicone elastomeric roof coatings are ideal for flat roofs because of their ability to resist ponding water. They provide superior protection against water damage, UV rays, and other environmental factors. They are highly durable and can withstand extreme temperature changes, making them an excellent choice for areas with harsh weather conditions.
- Polyurethane elastomeric roof coatings are highly durable and can resist abrasions, making them an excellent choice for roofs that experience foot traffic.
Application of Elastomeric Roof Coating
The application of elastomeric roof coatings is a straightforward process that can be completed by a professional roofing contractor. Here are the basic steps involved in the application process:
- Cleaning the Roof: The roof must be cleaned thoroughly before the coating can be applied. This involves removing any debris, dirt, and loose material from the roof’s surface.
- Priming the Roof: Once the roof is clean, a primer is applied to help the elastomeric roof coating adhere to the surface properly.
- Applying the Coating: The elastomeric roof coating is then applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush, depending on the roof’s size and shape.
- Drying and Curing: The coating is left to dry and cure for several days, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintenance of Elastomeric Roof Coating
To ensure your elastomeric roof coating lasts as long as possible, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your elastomeric roof coating:
- Regular Inspections: Inspect your roof regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks or peeling.
- Clean Your Roof: Clean your roof regularly to remove any debris, dirt, or algae that may accumulate on the surface.
- Repair Damage: If you notice any damage or wear and tear, have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your roof.
- Check the Coating: Check the coating periodically to ensure it is still adhering properly to the surface and has not peeled or cracked.
- Hire a Professional: Hire a professional roofing contractor to perform any maintenance or repairs to your elastomeric roof coating.
Elastomeric roof coatings are an excellent investment for any commercial or residential property owner looking to protect their roof from the damaging effects of weather and environmental factors. They offer several benefits, including waterproofing, energy efficiency, UV protection, and longevity.
There are several types of elastomeric roof coatings available, each with their unique characteristics and benefits. Proper application and maintenance of the coating can help extend the life of your roof and save you money in the long run. Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to help you choose the best type of elastomeric roof coating for your roof and ensure proper application and maintenance.
I come from an extensive family of construction professionals and have been around it most of my life. Early in my home renovation career, I remodeled several homes as well as built custom homes and additions.
Although this was a great experience, I decided to specialize in roofing and gutter systems because I enjoy interacting with customers and seeing their satisfaction when the job is done.