Can You Put A Silicone Roof Coating Over Acrylic? & Other Frequently Asked Questions 

Flat roofs are more prone to water damage than pitched roofs are. This makes it essential for you to choose the right roofing material, and a durable flat roof coating to go with it. This can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your roofing system. 

When we talk about the best roof coating for flat roofs, you will find that acrylic and silicone roof coatings stand out as popular options. 

In this blog post, we will talk a bit more about flat roof coatings. We will primarily focus on some of the most frequently asked questions, such as: can you put a silicone roof coating over acrylic? But that’s just the beginning. We’ll also answer other concerns so that you can take better care of your flat roof. 

Understanding Roof Coatings

Before we get into the specifics of applying silicone over acrylic, it’s essential to understand the basics of roof coatings.

Roof coatings tick a lot of boxes when we talk about protecting your flat roof. Durable flat roof coating options create a protective barrier against water infiltration, preventing leaks and water damage. They seal small cracks and protect the roofing membrane or material from damage.

Now, let’s explore the compatibility of a silicone roof coating with acrylic.

Q1) Can You Apply A Silicone Roof Coating Over Acrylic?

Silicone roof coatings are known for their durability and resistance to extreme weather conditions. They are better at facing harsh weather conditions than acrylic. So if you feel that you want to make a change to your roof coating but have already laid down an acrylic one, you may be wondering if you apply a silicone roof coating over it. The answer is yes, you can apply a silicone roof coat on an existing roof coating.  But there are some important considerations to keep in mind!

How Do You Apply A Silicone Roof Coating Over Acrylic? 

Preparing The Surface

Before applying a silicone coating over an acrylic one, you must thoroughly prepare the surface. Follow these steps:  

Clean the Surface: 

Remove any dirt, debris, or loose particles from the acrylic-coated surface. Silicone coatings stick to a surface fast and dirt can leave an unsightly impact on your roof. 

Inspect for Damage:

Check for any cracks or damage on the existing acrylic coating. Repair any issues before proceeding.

Primer Application:

In some cases, it may be necessary to apply a compatible primer to enhance the level of adhesion between the acrylic and silicone coatings.

Compatibility

Silicone coatings are generally compatible with acrylic coatings, but it’s essential to verify the compatibility of specific products you plan to use. Not all the silicone coating products can be installed over an acrylic roof. 

It is best that you check with the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for compatibility. Make sure that you also hire a professional roofing contractor to install the coating on your flat roof.  

Q2) Can You Paint Over A Silicone Roof Coating? 

Silicone roof coatings are mostly white in color. This allows them to easily reflect UV rays and keep your Florida property cooler. Painting over a silicone roof coating is possible, but it requires careful consideration and proper preparation to ensure a successful and long-lasting result. 

Just like applying a silicone coating, the steps will be more or less the same. That is, you will need to clean the surface and check for cracks before applying the paint. However, there are some things to consider! 

Here’s what you need to know if you’re contemplating painting over silicone roof coating:

Apply A High-Quality Primer

Apply a high-quality primer specifically designed for silicone surfaces. The primer enhances adhesion and provides a suitable base for the paint to adhere to the silicone coating effectively.

Invest In Good Quality Paints 

Not only do you want a good primer, but you should also get high-quality paint products to apply to your flat roofing system. Quality paint made by top manufacturers will not only provide better coverage and color retention, but will also withstand weathering and UV exposure effectively.

Apply Multiple Coats 

Applying multiple thin coats of paint is often more effective than one thick coat. Thin coats dry more evenly and provide a smoother finish.

Allow the paint to dry and cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper drying and curing times are crucial for the paint to form a strong bond with the silicone coating.

By following the proper techniques and using high-quality products, you can achieve a durable and visually appealing finish that enhances the performance of your flat roof. 

Q3) How Much Do Silicone Roof Coatings Cost? 

If you’re considering a silicone roof coating for your roof, the first thing that’s likely to come to mind is how much it will cost you. 

Knowing the cost is essential for anyone who’s considering this durable and weather-resistant option. On average, the cost of a silicone roof coating typically ranges between $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot. 

However, it’s important to note that this figure can vary based on several factors. The size of your roof, its current condition, and the complexity of the project can all influence the final cost. Additionally, labor costs and local market prices play a role in the overall expense. 

Although a silicone roof coating is more expensive than an acrylic roof coating, a silicone coating has several advantages. It provides excellent protection against the elements while also offering exceptional durability, meaning that you’ll likely save on repairs and replacements in the future. 

Q4) What Are The Top Silicone Roof Coating Brands? 

When it comes to choosing the best silicone roof coating for your flat roof, selecting one from a reputable brand is crucial. Several top brands have established themselves in the industry, known for their quality and performance. Below are some of them: 

Gaco™ : 

Gaco offers high-quality silicone roof coatings known for their durability and weather resistance. Formerly known as Gates Engineering Co., the company provides coating solutions for both residential and commercial roofs, ensuring long-lasting protection.

Henry® Company: 

Henry silicone roof coatings are world renowned and suitable for different types of roofing materials. They offer energy-efficient solutions that can reflect UV rays, helping to reduce your energy bills.

Tremco: 

Tremco offers silicone roof coatings that provide seamless, waterproof protection for flat roofs. Their coatings are highly durable and can resist ponding water, making them ideal for flat or low-slope roofs.

To know more about the top products that these brands offer, read our blog post: Why Silicone Roof Coatings Are The Ideal Choice For Florida Roofs & The Top 3 Products

Q5) How Long Do Silicone Roof Coatings Last?

All types of roof coatings have a set lifespan. One of the most common questions we get from homeowners is about the lifespan of their flat roof coating. On average, you can expect your silicone coating to last for about 15 to 20 years.  

Click here, to learn more about the lifespan of silicone roof coating and the factors that affect the longevity of your coated flat roof. 

By taking the right steps and using quality products, you can enhance the performance and appearance of your roof, ultimately protecting your investment and ensuring a comfortable and secure home.

If you want the best for your commercial roof but do not have the time or the required expertise to maintain it, contact the experienced team at SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors. Give us a call today, at (813) 400-3329, and speak to one of our experts about your roofing needs.