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Even more so than other roofs, flat roofs require maintenance in order to last. This maintenance typically comes in the form of coating the flat roof. A lifespan of an un-coated flat roof is around 10 years but coating it every five years or so can extend this enormously. Coating a flat roof can also save money on costly repairs down the line. How often you need to coat your roof, and which coating is the best, depends on a few factors.
Flat roofs are a popular choice for many residential homes. However, due to their low pitch, flat roofs can also be more prone to damage from the elements and require regular maintenance to ensure they last as long as possible. One way to extend a flat roof’s life is by applying a flat roof coating.
How Can You Tell Your Flat Roof Needs Coating?
Flat roofs are not usually actually flat, but instead have a very slight slope. Because of this, the main issue which affects flat roofs is drainage issues. It’s far better to coat the roof as a pre-emptive measure rather than wait for drainage issues such as ponding or leaks and then attempt to correct them. Ponding can also lead to fine cracks in PVC called crazing. Any signs of structural damage are a sure sign your roof needs coating. However, even if you do not have signs of damage and it has been five or more years since your roof was last coated, it’s still worth coating your flat roof.
Aluminum Coating For Flat Roofs
A popular way to coat flat roofs is to use a reflective roof coating. These can include aluminum or silver roof paints. These paints help keep a home cooler in the summer, which saves on energy bills. A flat roof’s silver coating will not likely be made of actual silver–it is more likely to be aluminum based. These paints also don’t look metallic and, in fact, dry white, which gives them a much more subtle effect. They also inhibit fungal growth and are usually self-priming, which makes them a quicker choice for flat roof coating.
The benefits of flat roof coating include improved energy efficiency, protection from the elements, longevity, easy maintenance, and a positive environmental impact.
Energy Efficiency
One of the primary benefits of flat roof coatings is improved energy efficiency. Many roof coatings are reflective and can help keep the building cooler, reducing the energy needed for air conditioning. This can lead to significant cost savings on energy bills, especially in warmer climates. Another way flat roof coatings can improve energy efficiency is by sealing any cracks or leaks in the roof. This can prevent outside air from entering the building, which can also help to keep the building cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. Additionally, a sealed roof can also help keep the inside of the building at a more consistent temperature, improving overall comfort and productivity.
Several standard energy-efficient flat roof coatings are available, such as silicone, urethane, and acrylic coatings. These coatings are often reflective and help keep the building cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. However, it’s essential to consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine the best coating for your specific roofing needs.
Roof Coatings Offer Protection from the Elements
Flat roof coating helps to protect a flat roofing system from the elements and prolong its life. The ultraviolet (UV) rays, wind, rain, and other weather conditions can cause damage to a roof over time. A coating can help to create a barrier that protects a rooftop from the elements, preventing damage and prolonging its life. One of the most common types of damage that flat roof coatings can prevent is leaks. The coating can seal any cracks or leaks in the roof, preventing water from entering the building and causing damage. Additionally, coatings that are UV-resistant can help to protect the roof from UV exposure, which can cause the roof to deteriorate over time.
Several standard coatings provide protection from the elements, such as silicone, urethane, and acrylic coatings. These coatings are often UV-resistant and can help to protect the roof from the sun, wind, and rain. However, it’s essential to consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine the best coating for your specific roofing needs.
Prolong the Life of a Flat Roof
A flat roof coating helps extend the life of a roof and saves money in the long run. A coating creates a barrier that protects the roof from the elements and prolongs its life. It seals any cracks or leaks, preventing water from entering the building and causing damage. Additionally, UV-resistant coatings can protect the roof from the sun’s rays, which can cause the roof to deteriorate over time. A well-maintained roof with regular coatings can last up to 20 years or more.
Cost Savings
The cost of roof coating materials and the associated labor costs can save a significant amount of money for homeowners and commercial building owners. In addition, a flat roof coating costs much less than a complete roof replacement (flat roofing materials and labor can be quite pricey), so it makes financial sense to consider a coating as a cost-effective alternative. Instead of replacing a flat roof, if it’s still in decent condition – a coating can restore a flat roofing system life by several more years.
Examples of Long-lasting Coatings
Several coatings have been shown to provide exceptional longevity, such as silicone, urethane, and acrylic coatings. These coatings are often UV-resistant and can help to protect the roof from the sun, wind, and rain. They are also flexible and can expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing cracking and prolonging the life of the coating. It’s essential to consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine the best coating for your specific roofing needs.
Easy Maintenance
Flat roof coatings can also make it easier to maintain a roof. A coating creates a barrier that protects the roof from the elements and makes it more durable. This can make it easier to clean and maintain the roof, as it is less likely to be damaged by the elements. Additionally, a coating can make it easier to spot and repair any leaks or damage, as the coating will be tight and smooth, and any defects will be more visible.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of a roof coating is vital to ensure it lasts as long as possible. This includes regular inspections to look for any damage or leaks and cleaning the roof as needed. It’s also important to reapply the coating when it wears or deteriorates to ensure the roof is protected from the elements.
Repairing leaks and patching holes
One of the first steps in a roof restoration is to repair any leaks or patch any holes that may be present in the roof. This is important to prevent water from entering the building and causing damage. A professional roofing contractor can locate and repair any leaks or holes, ensuring that the roof is watertight and able to protect the building.
Protective coating
Once leaks and holes have been repaired, a protective coating is applied to the roof. A coating creates a barrier that protects the roof from the elements and prolongs its life. It seals any cracks or leaks, preventing water from entering the building and causing damage. Additionally, UV-resistant coatings can protect the roof from the sun’s rays, which can cause the roof to deteriorate over time.