A starter guide to elastomeric roof coating

A STARTER GUIDE TO ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATING


PART IElastomeric Coating: What Is It?

Today, many property owners opt for flat and low-sloped roofs, especially for commercial buildings. To protect these roof systems and ensure their performance and longevity, the application of roof coating is highly recommended. Roof coating can also enhance the resistance of other roof types against

destructive factors.


ELASTOMERIC COATING: WHAT IS IT?

In this e-book, we will learn about elastomeric roof coating -- what it is, what it does, what it offers, and what installation considerations must be kept in mind for a property owner to make the most out of it.

ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATING: WHAT IS IT?Elastomeric coating or simply, roof coating, is an additional layer of protection applied on a finished roof. The term elastomeric is derived from elastomer, which refers to any material, such as natural or synthetic rubber, that is able to transform back into its original shape once the deforming force is removed. Generally, any roof coating material produced synthetically is referred to as elastomeric, while naturally derived ones are referred to as rubber. Today, rubber and elastomer are often used interchangeably when referring to roof coatings.

WHAT DOES ROOF COATING DO?Typically in the form of a thin membrane, roof coating seals the materials that compose the roof, creating a strong barrier against elements such as rain, hail, wind, and sunlight -- among other things – which can damage the roof. When applied properly, it can eventually add years to the roof’s life, regardless of its type and slope height.


ELASTOMERIC COATING: WHAT IS IT?

TYPES OF ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATING

• Water-based. This is the most popular type of elastomeric roof coating. Water-based coating emits fewer odors and costs less than solvent-based coatings.

• Solvent-based. This type of elastomeric coating is characterized by its higher resistance to water ponding. It is also more suitable for use on low-slope and flat roofs. Tough and flexible, solvent-based coatings are better able to resist abrasions. However, this type of coating smells pretty foul, especially during application, and usually costs more than its counterparts.

At this point, you should have a basic idea of what elastomeric coating is. Let us take a more in-depth look at it by learning about its advantages. Tune in for the next part!


PART 2The Advantages of Elastomeric Roof Coating

As one of the most economical and long-term roofing maintenance solutions, elastomeric roof coating offers a number of advantages that are difficult to discount. Let us take a closer look at its various benefits and see why it makes for

a good and wise investment.


THE ADVANTAGES OF ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATING

IT IS SEAMLESS, WATERPROOF, AND HEAT-RESISTANTAfter application and curing, elastomeric coating creates a uniform, seamless surface that remains flexible even at changing temperatures. It also expands and contracts, keeping its ability to protect the roof regardless of weather conditions. It effectively keeps the elements and debris out.

Elastomeric coating also practically waterproofs the roof. The coating provides a moisture barrier, helping keep the roof in pristine condition for years.

Elastomeric roof coating also slows down damage by absorbing the destructive effects of UV rays while keeping the house or building cool as it reflects hot sunlight away.

IT OFFERS A PERMANENT SOLUTION TO ROOF LEAKSElastomeric roof coating can solve and prevent roof leaks on almost any type of roofing material when applied or installed correctly.


THE ADVANTAGES OF ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATING

IT HELPS EXTEND THE LIFE OF ROOF SUBSTRATESField-applied reflective roof coating can extend the life of roof substrate as it provides protection against the elements.

IT ADDS ABOUT 20 YEARS TO THE SERVICE LIFE OF A ROOF

The coating provides protection which maximizes and extends a roof’s service life. As a result, roofing materials need to be thrown out less often – a fact which can impact positively on the environment.

OVERALL, THEY ARE A COST-EFFECTIVE INVESTMENTAll in all, the durability and reflectivity of elastomeric roof coating makes it a worthwhile investment. It adds value to the property by prolonging the life of the roof, and by effectively reducing maintenance and repair expenses. It can even reduce utility bills as it helps keep the building cool, making the property energy-efficient.

In the next part, we discuss the installation considerations that must be kept in mind so you can make the most of your elastomeric roof coating.


PART 3Installation Considerations

At this point, we have established and now better understand the benefits of investing in elastomeric coating. But, to ensure that your investment won’t be wasted, here are some

questions that need to be addressed first.


INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

CAN YOUR ROOF BE COATED?To know if your roof can be coated, you must first determine the type of system that you have, particularly if you have a flat roof. There are a number of flat room membrane types -- some of them require coating to remain in good working condition, while some do not. It is also important to understand the type of coating appropriate for your roof system, as applying the wrong coating can cause more damage, rather than provide protection.

It is best to ask your contractor about the type of roof that you have. If you know which manufacturer produced your roof materials, you can also check their recommendations for roof coating. You must also keep in mind that applying the wrong roof coating can not only damage your roof, but void its warranty as well.

WHEN TO COAT YOUR ROOFThere are two basic factors to consider to determine the best time to coat your roof: weather conditions and the age of your roof.

• Weather conditions. In general, the coating process must be done when the temperature is moderate and there is no precipitation expected or predicted.

• Roof age. Built-up and modified bitumen roofs need to be allowed to weather for several weeks or months after installation before roof coating is applied. Because these roofing systems are manufactured using petroleum, their surfaces can have oil residue on them, which can negatively affect roof coating application.

Meanwhile, if you have an older roof, it is best to consult your roofer regarding its overall condition; your roofer should be able to advise you whether it can still be coated or not.



TO COAT OR NOT TO COAT?

The application of elastomeric roof coating is considered a proactive preventative measure. However, while it can prolong your roof’s service life, it is only as good as the roof it is being applied onto. If your roof is severely aged and damaged, applying roof coating may not be enough to fix its issues. Replacing the entire roof may be a more viable solution.



BLAIR CONSTRUCTION L.L.C.301 Najoles Road, Suite 206, Millersville, Maryland, 21108

(410) 729-0777888-211-8249

www.BlairGCRoofing.com

http://www.BlairGCRoofing.com

A starter guide to elastomeric roof coating

Services

Transcript of A starter guide to elastomeric roof coating