4 Best Commercial Roof Coatings

A commercial roof is not just a protective barrier; it’s an investment in the longevity and functionality of your business infrastructure. However, without proper maintenance, it can become susceptible to wear and tear, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement.

This is where commercial roof coatings come into play, offering an effective solution to extend the life of your roof while providing numerous benefits. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of commercial roof coatings, teaching you:

• What they are
• Their benefits
• Different types available
• Why silicone roof coatings stand out as the preferred choice

What is a Roof Coating?

A roof coating is a protective layer applied to the surface of a commercial roof to enhance its durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. It acts as a shield against various environmental elements such as UV radiation, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

Roof coatings are typically formulated with elastomeric materials, which allow them to expand and contract with the roof’s movement, preventing cracks and leaks.

How Can a Roof Coating Help Your Commercial Roof?

The application of a roof coating offers a myriad of benefits for commercial property owners:

• Waterproofing: Roof coatings create a seamless, waterproof membrane that prevents water infiltration, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage to the interior of the building.
• Reflectivity: Many roof coatings are designed to reflect sunlight, reducing the heat absorbed by the roof and lowering indoor cooling costs during hot weather.
• Energy Efficiency: By reducing heat absorption and reflecting sunlight, roof coatings help improve the energy efficiency of commercial buildings, leading to lower utility bills.
• Extended Lifespan: A properly applied roof coating can extend the lifespan of a commercial roof by protecting it from UV radiation, weathering, and mechanical damage.
• Maintenance Savings: Roof coatings provide a cost-effective alternative to roof replacement by restoring and rejuvenating the existing roof surface, thereby reducing maintenance expenses over time.

4 Different Types of Roof Coatings

There are several types of roof coatings available in the market, each with its own set of characteristics and advantages. The most common types include:

1) Acrylic Roof Coatings:

Acrylic coatings are water-based and offer good UV resistance and durability. They are easy to apply and provide excellent adhesion to various roofing materials. However, acrylic coatings may lose their elasticity over time and are prone to cracking in extreme weather conditions.

2) Asphalt Emulsion Roof Coatings:

Asphalt emulsion coatings are made from asphalt, water, and additives. They offer good waterproofing properties and are compatible with asphalt-based roofing materials. However, they may degrade over time due to UV exposure and are not as reflective as other types of coatings.

3) Polyurethane Roof Coatings:

Polyurethane coatings provide superior durability and chemical resistance. They form a tough, flexible membrane that can withstand harsh weather conditions and foot traffic. However, polyurethane coatings are more expensive than other options and require professional installation.

4) Silicone Roof Coatings:

Silicone coatings are renowned for their exceptional durability, UV resistance, and weatherproofing properties. They form a seamless, waterproof membrane that can withstand extreme temperatures and environmental exposure. Silicone coatings are also highly reflective, making them an ideal choice for energy-efficient roofing systems.

Why We Prefer Silicone Roof Coatings

While each type of roof coating has its own merits, silicone roof coatings stand out as the preferred choice for commercial roofing applications. Here are several reasons why:

• Exceptional Durability: Silicone roof coatings are highly durable and resistant to UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and weathering. They maintain their flexibility and adhesion over time, ensuring long-lasting protection for your commercial roof.
• Superior Waterproofing: Silicone coatings create a seamless, waterproof membrane that prevents water infiltration and protects against leaks and water damage. They are particularly effective in areas prone to heavy rainfall or standing water.
• Reflectivity: Silicone coatings have high solar reflectance, meaning they reflect a significant portion of sunlight away from the roof surface. This helps reduce the roof’s temperature and lowers cooling costs, especially in warm climates.
• Ease of Application: Silicone roof coatings are easy to apply and require minimal surface preparation. They can be sprayed or rolled onto the roof surface, resulting in a seamless, uniform finish.
• Environmentally Friendly: Silicone roof coatings are solvent-free and low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them environmentally friendly and safe for use in commercial buildings.

How Much Does a Commercial Roof Coating Cost?

The cost of a commercial roof coating can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the roof, the type of coating used, the condition of the existing roof, and the labor involved. On average, the cost of a silicone roof coating installation ranges from $2.50 to $5.00 per square foot. While this initial investment may seem significant, it pales in comparison to the cost of roof replacement and offers substantial long-term savings in maintenance and energy costs.

How Long Does a Commercial Roof Coating Last?

The lifespan of a commercial roof coating depends on various factors, including the quality of the coating, environmental conditions, and proper maintenance. Generally, silicone roof coatings can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more with routine inspection and maintenance. Regular cleaning and recoating can help extend the life of the coating and maximize its performance.

Get a Commercial Roof Coating Today!

Commercial roof coatings offer a cost-effective solution to extend the lifespan of your roof while providing numerous benefits such as waterproofing, energy efficiency, and maintenance savings. Among the different types of roof coatings available, silicone roof coatings stand out as the preferred choice due to their exceptional durability, waterproofing properties, and environmental friendliness. By investing in a silicone roof coating, you can enhance the longevity and performance of your commercial roof, ensuring long-term protection for your business infrastructure.

Make the smart choice today and safeguard your investment with a quality silicone roof coating. Contact Built Right Roofing today to get started!