An Overview of Common Forms of Roof Coatings

Roof coatings have several benefits. You can use roof coatings to restore aging roofs, increase energy savings, and protect the roof against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Roof coatings come in different types with different properties. Below are some common types of roof coatings.

Acrylic 

Acrylic is a synthetic material that is technically a form of plastic. Acrylic roof coatings come in liquid form that hardens once it's on the roof. A good acrylic coating is several times thicker than roof paint. Roofing contractors apply acrylic paint via rolling, spraying, or brushing. An acrylic coating is:

• Cost-effective in the long term
• Easy to apply
• Durable
• Resistant to UV rays that damage roofing materials

Note that acrylic coating is a waterborne compound that takes a long to dry. High humidity, low temperatures, and precipitation prolong the curing period. Thus, you should work with your roofing contractor and plan the application for the right weather.

Silicone

Silicone, a synthetic material, is sort of a cross between plastic and rubber. You can apply the material either as a single or double layer. Below are some advantages of silicone roof coating:

• The material doesn't absorb water after curing, so it reduces the risk of roof damage from ponding water
• The coating resists UV damage and doesn't degrade easily
• The material is easy to apply due to its high solid content

Silicone coating might attract some dust during the first few months of application. Fortunately, pressure washing the roof will easily remove the dust.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is also a form of plastic. You apply the coating as a liquid, which then rises and forms a seamless coating on the roof and around roof protrusions, such as vents. Polyurethane roof coatings come in two main forms:

Aliphatic coatings that are UV resistant and resist dirt accumulation

Aromatic coatings with limited UV resistance

Aromatic polyurethanes tend to be inexpensive compared to their aliphatic counterparts. Thus, most people use the aromatic version as the base coat and the aliphatic version for the top cost. That way, you minimize your coating budget and enjoy UV protection too.

Polyurethanes are:

• Durable
• Highly adhesive
• Highly impact-resistant

Get a professional roofing contractor to apply the coating. DIY roofers might find the application difficult and the coating's odor unpleasant. Professionals have the right gears to handle both issues.

Bitumen

Bitumen is a mixture of hydrocarbons that are byproducts of petroleum distillation. Bitumen roof coatings include other compounds, such as fiber, for reinforcement. Some of the advantages of bitumen coatings include:

• Inexpensiveness
• Durability
• Resistance to damage from freezing and thaw cycles
• High adhesiveness

Bitumen coatings are best for roofs that don't experience frequent foot traffic, which might degrade the coatings. Also, ensure adequate drainage for the roof (really, this is good advice for all roofs) so that water doesn't pond on it.

Aluminum

Lastly, you should also consider aluminum roof coatings. Although aluminum is a metal, a typical aluminum coating contains other additional materials, such as asphalt and filler materials. The aluminum quantity determines the quality of the coating – higher concentrations of aluminum are best.

Below are some advantages of aluminum coating:

• Durability
• UV protection
• Reflectivity

Aluminum roof coatings have a strong odor, just like polyurethanes, due to high levels of Volatile Organic Contents (VOCs). Fortunately, professional roofing contractors have the skills and safety gear to handle their applications.

Your objectives, type of roof, budget, and local climate are some of the factors that will determine the best coating for your house. However, the skill of application also determines the effectiveness of the coating. Urban Exterior Co, an experienced roof contractor, can help you select and apply the best coating for your house. Contact us for a quote on all your roofing needs.