Your roof is built to last, but the weather conditions in your area do have a say in how well it holds up over time. From harsh sunlight and heavy rain to freezing temperatures, weather conditions constantly challenge a roof’s durability.
As a home or building owner in Wisconsin, you know how the weather can be, and because of this, you need to be extra proactive. No matter how strong your roof is, taking care of it can improve it over time. This is where roof coatings come in.
If you’re looking for a way to enhance your roof’s protection, extend its lifespan, and even lower your energy bills, this guide is for you. We’ll cover everything you need to know about roof coatings, their benefits and drawbacks, the different types available, and whether coating or replacement is the right choice for your roof. Let’s get started.
What Is a Roof Coating?
A roof coating is a protective layer applied to an existing roof to enhance its durability and resistance to damage. It is usually in a liquid form that is layered on the entire roof. A roof coating acts as a shield against UV rays, moisture, and general wear and tear, preventing premature roof deterioration. Most coatings are liquid-applied and cure into a seamless, flexible membrane that adapts to the roof’s surface.
Roof coatings differ from traditional repairs or replacements because they are applied over an existing roof rather than requiring the removal of materials. While repairs fix localized damage and replacements involve a full tear-off and installation of new materials, coatings work as a preventive solution, helping prevent costly fixes down the line. We will cover this in detail later.
It’s important to note that most roof coatings are meant to be used on flat or low slope roofs, not pitched ones. A roofing professional can help you determine if your roof can be coated.
What Roof Coatings Do for Your Roof
You have a new roof, you know that roofing projects are a big investment. A roof coating is going to further add to the cost. So you might be thinking, what’s the point? Despite the extra cost, installing a roof coating comes with plenty of benefits that help in the long run.
Extends Roof Lifespan
Your roof is constantly exposed to sunlight, wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these elements break down roofing materials, leading to cracks, leaks, and general deterioration. For materials like flat roofing membranes, this deterioration occurs even faster.
A roof coating adds a layer of protection, slowing down wear and preventing minor damage from becoming major issues. With a quality coating, you can extend your roof’s lifespan by 10 to 20 years.
Improves Energy Efficiency
Believe it or not, excessive sunlight can damage your roof just as much as rain. Some roof coatings, particularly those with reflective properties, reduce heat absorption by reflecting sunlight. This lowers the roof’s surface temperature, reducing the need for air conditioning and helping you save on energy bills. Homeowners in hot climates benefit the most from reflective coatings as they help maintain a cooler indoor environment.
Cost-Effective Maintenance
Applying a roof coating can delay a full replacement, which is significantly more expensive. Instead of dealing with high labor and material costs for a new roof, you can maintain your existing one for a fraction of the price. Routine reapplications ensure your roof remains in good condition over time.
Enhances Waterproofing
Roof leaks can be a nightmare. Leaks generally start small and then aggravate into big problems. But if you have a coating on your roof, the risk of leaks reduces significantly. Roof coatings provide an added layer of waterproofing, sealing small cracks and gaps that could turn into leaks. Silicone-based coatings, in particular, excel at preventing water intrusion and are effective for roofs that experience ponding water.
Eco-Friendly Option
By extending your roof’s life, coatings help reduce construction waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. Some coatings are even made with environmentally friendly materials, making them a sustainable choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Potential Drawbacks of Roof Coatings
What are the problems with roof coating application? Let us find out:
Not an Alternative for Repairs and Replacement
A common misconception is that roof coatings can fix severely damaged or structurally compromised roofs. However, coatings are meant for preventive maintenance and minor improvements, not major repairs. If your roof has significant leaks, sagging, or rot, a coating will not resolve these issues, and a full replacement may be necessary.
Regular Maintenance Required
While coatings extend a roof’s life, they are not a one-time solution. Depending on the type of coating used and the local climate, recoating may be needed every few years to maintain effectiveness. UV exposure, heavy rain, and debris accumulation can degrade coatings over time, making periodic inspections and maintenance a must for long-term performance.
Initial Costs Can Be High
Although coatings are more affordable than full replacements, the upfront cost can still be significant. The price varies based on the type of coating, roof size, and labor required. However, the long-term savings in energy efficiency and maintenance costs often outweigh the initial investment. In the short term, the cost may seem high, but considering the added years of protection and efficiency it brings, the investment can pay off in the long run.
Types of Roof Coatings
There are several types of roof coatings available on the market. Roof coatings do not work on a general formula. Instead, different compounds are used so that they can work on different roofing materials. Here is a brief description of the roof coating types you can install.
Acrylic Roof Coatings
These are the coatings made from synthetic fibers or resins known as acrylic polymers. Acrylic coatings are water-based and are best known for their reflective and UV protection properties. They work exceptionally well in areas with high sun exposure, helping to reduce roof temperatures and lower energy costs.
These coatings are ideal for sloped roofs where water runoff is common. You can use acrylic coatings for flat roofing membranes, too. However, they may not be suitable for flat roofs. Since it’s a water-based coating, its effectiveness is reduced in areas where water tends to pool, as prolonged exposure to ponding water can degrade the material over time.
Silicone Roof Coatings
Next, let us move to silicone roof coatings. This type of coating has become more popular in recent years. It provides excellent waterproofing and performs well in areas with heavy rainfall. Unlike acrylic coatings, they resist ponding water, making them a preferred choice for flat or low-slope roofs.
While they have significant advantages over traditional acrylic roof coatings, this also increases prices. So you will likely pay more than you would for acrylic coatings. However, silicone coatings have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance.
Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Polyurethane coatings deliver superior durability for high-traffic areas. Their tough, impact-resistant surface withstands physical damage, hail, and debris while providing excellent chemical resistance. Though the most expensive option, their extended lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements often justify the higher cost for many building owners.
Asphalt-Based Roof Coatings
Asphalt coatings offer time-tested waterproofing at budget-friendly prices. They adhere well to existing asphalt roofs and flex with building movement. Their main drawback is poor reflectivity. The dark surface absorbs heat rather than reflecting it, potentially increasing cooling costs in warm climates, even with aluminum-pigmented variants.
What Is An Elastomeric Roof Coating?
You might have come across the term elastomeric roof coating while researching different coating options. But is it a standalone coating, or is it a type of coating we discussed earlier?
Elastomeric roof coatings are not a separate type but rather a category that describes coatings with elastic properties. These coatings, which can include acrylic, silicone, and polyurethane formulas, have the ability to stretch and contract with temperature changes. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with extreme weather variations, as they prevent cracks and maintain their integrity over time.
For example, while traditional acrylic coatings may not perform as well as silicone on flat roofs, elastomeric acrylic coatings address this limitation.
How Long Do Roof Coatings Last?
If you choose to install roof coatings, it is important to know how long your investment will last. The lifespan of coatings depends on what type you install. For example, silicone and polyurethane coatings last longer than acrylic options. Below is a general breakdown:
- Acrylic Coatings: 10 to 15 years
- Silicone Coatings: 15 to 20 years
- Polyurethane Coatings: 15 to 30 years
- Elastomeric Coatings: 10 to 20 years
How To Install A Roof Coating
While you should always leave roof coating application to the professionals, knowing the process can help you prepare.
Thorough Inspection
The roof coating process starts with a complete inspection. The roofers will go over every part of your roof, checking for any damage, moisture problems, seam separations, and other structural issues that could affect the coating’s performance.
Surface Preparation
Once the inspection is complete, they move on to surface preparation. This is one of the most important parts of the job. The roof surface needs to be completely clean to ensure the coating sticks properly. Professionals use cleaning equipment to wash away dirt, moss, algae, and other debris.
Repairing and Priming
Next, any repairs are taken care of. Roofers will seal cracks, fix weak seams, and replace damaged roof sections. They also pay extra attention to areas around vents, pipes, and skylights to make sure everything is properly sealed. After repairs are finished, if necessary, a primer is applied. This helps the coating stick better.
Coating Application
Now it’s time to apply the coating. The method used depends on the type of roof and coating you’re getting. For smaller areas or detailed work, rollers and brushes are used. This gives more control over the application and ensures thicker coatings are applied to problem areas. For larger roofs, sprayers are used across the surface. For certain coatings, special sprayers that mix chemicals at the nozzle can be used for a more precise application.
Final Inspection and Curing
After the coating is applied, a final inspection is conducted to make sure everything was done correctly. The roofers check the thickness of the coating in several spots to ensure it meets the required standards. They also look for any issues like uneven application or bubbles. The curing process can take time, depending on the type of coating used. Once everything is fully cured, they do a final walkthrough to ensure the job is complete and make any necessary touch-ups.
Roof Coating vs. Roof Replacement: Which One Do You Need?
Making the right decision between roof coating and complete replacement can save you thousands of dollars while keeping your property protected. Here’s how to determine which option is best for your situation.
When Roof Coating Is Appropriate:
- Your roof is structurally sound with no major leaks or damage
- The roof surface has minimal deterioration
- You’re looking to extend the life of a roof that’s in good condition
- You want to improve energy efficiency and reflectivity
- Your budget constraints make a full replacement challenging
When Roof Replacement Is Necessary:
- Your roof has extensive water damage or multiple leaks
- The roof deck has rotted or shows signs of structural weakness
- More than 30% of the roof surface is damaged or deteriorated
- Your roof is approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan
- You have extensive mold or moisture issues in your attic
Remember, applying a coating to a severely damaged roof might provide temporary relief but won’t solve the underlying problem. If you aren’t sure which option is best for your situation, our roofing experts can help.
Want To Install Quality Roof Coatings? We Can Help!
Roof coatings provide a cost-effective, eco-friendly way to extend your roof’s life and improve energy efficiency. However, you can only get all these benefits if the coating is applied correctly. At Prestige Roofing LLC, we take care of all your roofing needs. Whether you have a flat or pitched roof, we are here to help. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414.