Top Commercial Roofing Coatings: What You Need to Know

Understanding Commercial Roofing Coatings

One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your commercial roof is by applying commercial roofing coatings. These specialized coatings are designed to protect your roof from harsh weather, UV rays, and ongoing wear and tear. Whether you have a new roof you want to safeguard or an older one that needs a little extra help, roof coatings offer a smart, cost-effective solution.

In brief:

• Protects against UV rays and weather
• Improves waterproofing
• Improves energy efficiency
• Reduces maintenance costs

Roof coatings provide a powerful layer of protection and come in various types suited to different needs and climates. By reflecting sunlight, they help minimize temperature swings that strain your building's heating and cooling systems. Moreover, they improve the roof's aesthetics and fire resistance.

If you're a facility manager looking for an efficient, budget-friendly option to cut down on energy costs and frequent repairs, roof coatings might be just what you need.

Types of Commercial Roofing Coatings

Polyurethane Roof Coatings

Polyurethane roof coatings are a popular choice for commercial buildings, especially in regions prone to harsh weather conditions. These coatings are known for their durability and high abrasion resistance, making them ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic or where the roof is exposed to hail.

Polyurethane coatings come in two main types: aromatic and aliphatic. Aromatic coatings are less expensive but not UV-stable, making them suitable for base layers. On the other hand, aliphatic coatings are UV-stable and retain their color and gloss over time, making them perfect for top layers.

Key Benefits of Polyurethane Coatings:

• High Abrasion Resistance: Ideal for roofs with heavy foot traffic.
• Durability: Long-lasting protection against wear and tear.
• Flexibility: Can handle temperature variations and structural movements.

Case Study: Grand Junction Tech Center

The Grand Junction Tech Center faced issues with its existing roof, which already had two layers. Instead of a complete roof replacement, a polyurethane coating system was applied. The process involved pressure washing, priming, and using a Unisil HS silicone with a three-course application. This solution not only avoided the need for a full replacement but also extended the roof's life significantly.

Before: EPDM fastened roof with 1" ISO and 5-ply Asphalt
After: 12" Roofmate fabric with a coating of GAF white Unisil High Solid Silicone
Square Footage: Over 200,000 square feet
Warranty: CentiMark Single Source 20-year Warranty covering workmanship and material

Polyurethane coatings are particularly beneficial in hail-prone regions in the Western U.S., where the roof surface is often subjected to heavy foot traffic. These coatings provide a robust layer of protection, ensuring the longevity and integrity of your commercial roof.

For more information on the benefits of polyurethane roof coatings, check out our detailed guide.

Benefits of Commercial Roofing Coatings

Commercial roofing coatings offer a range of benefits that make them a smart choice for protecting and extending the life of your roof. Here are some of the key advantages:

Protection from the Elements

UV Rays and Weather Conditions: Roof coatings shield the roof membrane from harmful UV rays and other weather conditions. This added layer of protection helps prevent damage and degradation over time.

Waterproofing: A high-quality roof coating provides a waterproof layer, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage. This is particularly beneficial in areas with frequent rain or ponding water.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Reflectivity: Many roof coatings, like acrylic and silicone, improve the reflectivity of the roof surface. This helps reduce the building's internal temperature, easing the strain on heating and cooling systems. The reflective properties can lead to significant energy savings.

Prolonged Roof Life

Reduced Temperature Swings: Roof coatings help minimize temperature swings on the roof membrane, decreasing its expansion and contraction. This can prolong the life of the roof by reducing wear and tear.

Less Expensive than Replacement: One of the top reasons to choose a roof coating system is its cost-effectiveness. It is often much less expensive than a full roof replacement and can extend the roof's life by several years.

Improved Aesthetics and Fire Resistance

Aesthetic Appeal: A new coating system can improve the overall look of your building, giving it a fresh, clean appearance.

Fire Resistance: Some coatings improve the fire resistance of the roof system, providing an added layer of safety for your building.

Types of Roof Surfaces: Roof coatings can be applied to various surfaces, including built-up roofs (BURs), metal, modified bitumen, single-ply systems, and sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF).

Real-World Example: Grand Junction Tech Center

The Grand Junction Tech Center's roof already had two layers and was facing issues. Instead of opting for a full roof replacement, a coating system was applied. The process included pressure washing, priming, and using a Unisil HS silicone with a three-course application. This solution avoided a complete replacement and extended the roof's life significantly.

Before: EPDM fastened roof with 1" ISO and 5-ply Asphalt
After: 12" Roofmate fabric with a coating of GAF white Unisil High Solid Silicone
Square Footage: Over 200,000 square feet
Warranty: CentiMark Single Source 20-year Warranty covering workmanship and material

For more details on how roof coatings can benefit your commercial building, visit our detailed guide.

Added Layer of Protection

New Roofs: Even new roofs can benefit from a coating system, which adds an extra layer of protection to keep them in optimal condition for longer.

Aging Roofs: For older roofs, coatings can provide a rejuvenating effect, giving them a new lease on life without the need for a complete overhaul.

Now, let's dig into the Top Commercial Roofing Coatings and explore the different types available to meet your specific needs.

Top Commercial Roofing Coatings

When choosing a commercial roofing coating, understand the different types available and their unique benefits. Here, we'll break down the top options: acrylic, polyurethane, silicone, and rubber coatings.

Acrylic Roof Coatings

Acrylic roof coatings are water-based and known for their high reflectivity. They come in various colors, including white, tan, and gray. These coatings are perfect for high UV environments, as they reflect sunlight and reduce the building's internal temperature.

Key Benefits:

• Energy Efficiency: Acrylic coatings help lower cooling costs by reflecting UV rays.
• Flexibility: They are resistant to cracking, making them durable in various weather conditions.
• Cost-Effective: Acrylic coatings are generally less expensive and easy to apply.

Acrylic coatings are ideal for buildings in sunny regions, where reducing heat absorption is a priority.

Polyurethane Roof Coatings

Polyurethane coatings are solvent-based and come in two main types: aromatic and aliphatic. Aromatic polyurethane is less UV-stable, while aliphatic polyurethane offers excellent UV resistance. These coatings are known for their durability and resistance to heavy foot traffic.

Key Benefits:

• Durability: High abrasion resistance and tensile strength make them perfect for areas with heavy traffic or hail.
• Versatility: Suitable for various substrates, including metal and modified bitumen.
• Weather Resistance: Excellent for regions with extreme weather conditions.

Polyurethane coatings are particularly effective in hail-prone areas and places with heavy foot traffic.

Silicone Roof Coatings

Silicone roof coatings are renowned for their waterproofing capabilities and resistance to ponding water. They are also highly reflective, making them suitable for high UV environments.

Key Benefits:

• Waterproofing: Ideal for areas with frequent rain, as they prevent leaks and water damage.
• UV Resistance: Reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption and lowering energy costs.
• Longevity: Can extend the roof's life by up to 20 years.

Silicone coatings are perfect for roofs that experience frequent wet conditions or ponding water.

Rubber Roof Coatings

Rubber roof coatings are typically water-based and effective at sealing the roof from rain and sunlight. They are easy to apply and work well for minor repairs.

Key Benefits:

• Water Resistance: Excellent for sealing small gaps and cracks, preventing leaks.
• Ease of Application: Easy to apply, making them a good choice for DIY projects.
• Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive, suitable for small-scale applications.

Rubber coatings are great for quick fixes and smaller areas that need immediate attention.

Understanding these commercial roofing coatings can help you choose the best option for your building's needs. Next, we'll explore the Application Process for Commercial Roofing Coatings to guide you through how these coatings are applied.

Application Process for Commercial Roofing Coatings

Applying commercial roofing coatings involves several crucial steps to ensure a long-lasting and effective layer of protection. Below, we'll break down the process, focusing on key techniques like rolling.

Preparation

Before applying any coating, proper preparation is essential. This includes:

1. Inspection: Check the roof for damage, debris, and any issues that need repair.
2. Cleaning: Pressure wash the roof to remove dirt, mold, and old coating residues.
3. Repairs: Fix any cracks, holes, or damaged areas to create a smooth surface.

Priming

Priming the roof prepares it for the coating, ensuring better adhesion and longevity.

• Selection: Choose a primer compatible with your coating type.
• Application: Apply the primer evenly across the roof surface. Allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Application Methods

There are several ways to apply commercial roofing coatings, but rolling is one of the most common and effective methods.

Rolling

Rolling is a straightforward and efficient technique for applying roof coatings, especially for large flat surfaces.

1. Tools Needed: Use a high-quality roller with an extension handle for easy access.
2. Coating Application:
   • Pour the Coating: Pour the coating material into a paint tray.
   • Load the Roller: Dip the roller into the tray, ensuring it is evenly coated.
   • Apply the Coating: Roll the coating onto the roof in even, overlapping strokes. This helps achieve a uniform layer.
3. Multiple Layers: Depending on the coating type, you may need to apply multiple layers. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

Drying and Curing

After applying the coating, it's crucial to let it dry and cure properly.

• Drying Time: This can vary based on the coating type and weather conditions. Typically, it ranges from a few hours to a day.
• Curing Period: Full curing may take several days to a week. During this time, avoid heavy foot traffic on the roof.

Inspection and Maintenance

Once the coating is applied and cured, regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure its longevity.

• Regular Inspections: Check the roof at least twice a year and after severe weather events.
• Maintenance: Address any minor issues promptly to prevent them from becoming major problems.

With a clear understanding of the application process, you're now better equipped to ensure your commercial roofing coatings are applied correctly. Next, we'll tackle some frequently asked questions to clarify common concerns and misconceptions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial Roofing Coatings

What are commercial roof coatings?

Commercial roof coatings are specialized layers applied to the surface of a roof to protect it from the elements. They improve the roof's performance by providing waterproofing, UV protection, and increased durability. These coatings can be applied to various roof types, such as metal, modified bitumen, and single-ply systems.

What is the difference between roof sealant and roof coating?

While both roof sealants and roof coatings protect the roof, they serve different purposes and are applied differently.

• Roof Sealant: Typically used for small repairs, sealants are adhesive coatings that seal cracks, gaps, and damaged areas. They come in forms like caulk, tape, and spray, making them ideal for targeted fixes.

• Roof Coating: Applied over the entire roof surface, coatings provide a continuous protective layer. They improve the roof's performance by adding waterproofing, UV resistance, and durability. Coatings are better suited for large-scale protection and longevity.

How long do commercial roof coatings last?

The lifespan of commercial roof coatings can vary based on the type of coating and the conditions it faces. Generally, high-quality coatings can last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. For example:

• Acrylic Coatings: Usually last around 10-15 years.
• Polyurethane Coatings: Known for their durability, they can last 15-20 years.
• Silicone Coatings: Often last 15-20 years, especially in high-UV or wet environments.
• Rubber Coatings: Can last up to 20 years with routine maintenance.

Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the life of these coatings, making them a cost-effective solution for commercial roofs.

By understanding these key aspects, you can make informed decisions about protecting and maintaining your commercial roof. Up next, we will dig into the different types of commercial roofing coatings and their specific benefits.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial roofing coating can make a significant difference in the longevity and performance of your roof. Whether you're looking to extend the life of an aging roof or protect a new installation, the benefits are clear: improved durability, waterproofing, UV protection, and potential energy savings.

Acrylic, polyurethane, and silicone coatings each offer unique advantages suited to different environmental conditions and building needs. For instance, acrylic coatings excel in high UV environments, while polyurethane coatings are ideal for areas prone to heavy foot traffic and hail. Silicone coatings stand out for their resistance to ponding water and daily rain.

The application process is straightforward but requires professional expertise to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regular maintenance and inspections can further extend the lifespan of these coatings, making them a cost-effective investment.

Ready to protect your commercial roof with a high-quality coating? Contact Peak Roofing Solutions to schedule your free inspection and find how we can help extend the life of your roof by up to 20 years.

Invest in your roof today and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.