Benefits of Commercial Roof Coatings
Commercial roof coatings are used to protect and extend the useful service life of existing roof systems, such as BUR, metal, modified bitumen, single-ply membranes, and spray polyurethane foam.
Roof coatings are thicker and have a higher solids content than paint. Roof coatings are used to protect roofs from the damaging effects of the weather and the environment, such as ultraviolet light, excessive water, and wind.
They are formulated to give long-term protection and are exceptionally elastic, with a high percentage of high-quality resin. The coating’s elastic qualities are maintained throughout its lifecycle thanks to the high-quality resins and volume of resins added throughout the manufacturing process.
These resins cure to form an elastomeric and durable film that provides additional water resistance and allows the roof coating to seal minor gaps and membrane seams that are common on roofs.
Roof coatings are applied in several gallons per 100 square feet, unlike paint, which is normally done in sections of a gallon per 100 square feet.
The Different Types of Roof Coatings
Acrylic Roof Coatings
Acrylic water-based coatings are perfect for areas with high UV levels and a desire for a reflective roof. They are available in a variety of colors to fit the structure, but the most common are white, tan, and grey. There are numerous specialized variants designed to work with certain substrates.
Asphalt Roof Coatings
Asphalt coatings are either emulsions or solvent-based “cutbacks.” They come in two colors: black and aluminized. They have the potential to be used in cold and wet conditions. When a reflective and UV stable asphalt coating is required, aluminized coatings are the best option.
Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Solvent-based polyurethane coatings are available in two types: aromatic (less UV stable) and aliphatic (more UV stable) (very UV stable). Urethanes have good mechanical characteristics and are resistant to abrasion. They are recommended for use in areas where there is a high risk of hail or if a roof is subjected to a lot of foot activity.
Silicone Roof Coatings
In high UV situations when a reflecting roof is needed, silicone coatings, like acrylic coatings, work well. Silicone is typically utilized in areas where rain is a daily occurrence, or if the roof is frequently wet and has a lot of ponded water.
Other Various Types of Roof Coatings
Other resins or resin mixtures can be used to create roof coatings. Among them include, but are not limited to:
- Resins made of butyl
- Fluoropolymer
- PMMA
- Polyester
- Silyl terminated polyether (STPE)
- Polyuria
- PUMA
- SEBS
- Styrene-acrylics
