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Commercial buildings are the backbone of our economy, housing businesses and serving as vital hubs for various industries. Among the many crucial components that contribute to the functionality and longevity of commercial structures, the roof stands out as a vital element requiring special attention. To protect and maximize the potential of commercial roofs, roof coatings have emerged as a game-changing solution.
In this article, we will delve into the world of roof coatings and explore why they have become a “must-have” for commercial buildings. We will also highlight their advantages.
What Are Roof Coatings?
Roof coatings, also known as roof sealants, are advanced protective layers applied to the roof’s surface. These coatings serve as a barrier against external elements such as UV radiation, extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage, thereby safeguarding the underlying roof structure.
They offer numerous benefits that not only enhance the durability and performance of commercial roofs but also deliver cost savings and environmental advantages.
On the market, there are various types of roof coatings available, each tailored to specific roofing materials and environmental conditions. Some common types include:
Acrylic Roof Coatings
Acrylic coatings are water-based and offer excellent UV resistance. They are easy to apply, dry quickly, and provide a seamless, flexible membrane. Acrylic coatings are compatible with a wide range of roofing materials, including metal roofs and TPO roofing systems. Look for 100% acrylic elastomeric coatings for the best results.
Silicone Roof Coatings
This is the most popular type of roof coating available. Silicone coatings excel in extreme temperature variations and provide exceptional UV protection. They are moisture-cured and form a seamless, durable membrane. Silicone coatings offer excellent resistance to ponding water and are suitable for flat or low-slope roofs.
Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Polyurethane coatings are highly durable and provide superior protection against weathering and physical damage. They have excellent adhesive properties and can withstand foot traffic and harsh weather conditions.
Benefits Of Installing Roof Coating On Your Flat Roof
If you own or manage a commercial building, understanding the significance of roof coatings can revolutionize your approach to roof maintenance and protection. So, let’s explore why roof coatings have become an indispensable asset for commercial flat roof properties, ensuring their longevity, efficiency, and sustainability in the face of diverse challenges.
Extends The Roof’s Lifespan
Roof coatings play a crucial role in extending the lifespan of commercial roofs. As a business owner or a building manager, it is obvious that you have a lot on your plate. Therefore you would not want the added stress of worrying about your roof time and again. But installing a roof coating over your flat roofing material will help reduce this stress to a large extent.
Here’s how:
A roof coating creates a protective additional layer over and above your roofing membrane. They shield the roof from harsh weather conditions, UV radiation, and physical damage. This added protection helps prevent premature aging and deterioration of the roof. It also helps reduce the need for costly repairs or roof replacements. With regular maintenance and recoating, flat roof coatings can significantly prolong the life of the roof, saving both time and money for commercial building owners.
Creates A Watertight Seal
You can think of commercial roof coatings as part of a superhero squad guarding the top of your commercial property. One of the benefits of a roof coating is that it creates a watertight seal.
The seamless, waterproof membrane created by roof coatings acts as a barrier, preventing water damage that causes roof leaks, and ensuring a cohesive roofing system. Roof coatings prevent leaks from wreaking havoc on your commercial building. No more worries about water seeping in through vulnerable spots and causing structural damage or ruining the interior.
Not only will you get protection from water damage and leaks, but with a proper roof coating, you can say goodbye to pesky mold growth and the nightmare of dealing with rot and costly repairs.
Helps With Energy Efficiency
Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, you are likely to be concerned about improving the energy efficiency of your property. This has become even more important in today’s day and age, where environmental concerns are high.
Roof coatings offer notable energy-saving benefits for commercial buildings. The majority of the roof coatings available on the market now are designed with highly reflective properties, effectively reducing the roof’s heat absorption and retention. In fact, white is the most popular roof coating color due to its bright reflective properties.
By reflecting a significant portion of solar radiation, roof coatings help keep the building cooler. This can help you and your employees immensely, especially during the summers, reducing the demand for air conditioning and lowering energy consumption. This reduces cooling costs and increases energy efficiency, leading to substantial long-term cost savings for commercial building owners. Additionally, some regions offer tax incentives or rebates for installing energy-efficient roof coatings, further enhancing the financial benefits.
Tip: Before purchasing a roof coating, check the product’s solar reflectivity. It is usually given in terms of percentage.
Versatile Applications
Roof coatings provide a seamless protective layer when applied correctly. This seamless application eliminates the vulnerabilities associated with seams and joints, reducing the risk of leaks and potential weak points.
Additionally, roof coatings can be applied to various roof types, including flat or low-slope roofs, as well as different roofing materials, such as metal roofs and other single-ply membranes, such as TPO and EPDM. This versatility allows commercial building owners to benefit from roof coatings, regardless of their specific roofing system, making it a viable option for a wide range of buildings.
Enhance Curb Appeal
Usually, when we think about curb appeal, we tend to associate it with residential properties. However, the importance of curb appeal is gradually shifting towards commercial roofs as well. Owners now realize that aesthetically pleasing roofs can leave a lasting impression on clients, customers, and visitors.
Traditionally, popular commercial roofing materials such as EPDM lacked the visual appeal and variety seen in residential roofing options. But that’s where roof coatings come in to revolutionize the game.
Roof coatings offer a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing commercial building owners to enhance the curb appeal of their properties. No longer limited to monotonous, standard roof colors such as black and white, flat roof coatings provide the opportunity to make a statement with your roof’s appearance.
So a roof coating becomes essential not only to enhance durability but also the appearance too.
A Sustainable Way To Improve Your Property
Another crucial reason to install a roof coating is that it contributes to sustainable building practices and environmental conservation. In the section above, we talked about how roof coating keeps the roof cool and reduces the interior temperature of your property, allowing you to work comfortably.
By minimizing heat absorption and reducing energy consumption, roof coatings lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with cooling buildings as well.
But this is not the only way they help the environment. Many roof coatings, such as silicone roof coatings and acrylic coats, are formulated to be low VOC, minimizing harmful emissions and promoting healthier indoor air quality.
By incorporating roof coatings as a proactive commercial building owner, you can demonstrate your commitment to the environment and sustainable operations.
From extending the roof’s lifespan to preventing leaks, reducing energy costs, and promoting sustainability, roof coatings offer significant benefits that protect your investment, enhance energy efficiency, and support environmentally responsible practices in commercial buildings.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Inspections:
Just like any other aspect of your commercial building, roof coatings require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure their optimal performance and longevity.
Whether it is a pitched or a flat roof, a roof inspection is necessary. Understand the fact that while roof coatings are a great addition to your roof, they will not get you free from your duty to inspect.
Regular inspections allow you to identify any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration to the roof coating. This includes checking for cracks, blisters (especially on TPO and EPDM roofs), peeling, or areas where the coating may have worn thin. Timely detection of such issues enables you to take prompt action
Consistent maintenance can also help you in the long term by making sure that your roof is properly coated. Maintenance activities for roof coatings typically include cleaning and recoating procedures. Regular cleaning helps remove debris, dirt, and pollutants that can accumulate on the roof’s surface over time, and deteriorate the roof coating.
Want To Transform Your Roof with Stunning Roof Coatings? Get In Touch With Us Today!
Don’t let leaks, water damage, or lackluster curb appeal hold your commercial building back. Our team of expert roofers at SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors, specialize in installing high-quality roof coatings that provide unparalleled protection and aesthetic enhancements. By trusting us with your roof coating needs, you’ll experience the peace of mind that comes from knowing your investment is in the hands of skilled professionals.
Don’t wait – reach out to us now at (813) 400-3329, and let’s embark on this exciting roofing journey together!
