Flat roofs are aesthetically pleasing for many design and architectural styles. They also offer the advantage of easily installing solar panels, having a rooftop patio, getting your air conditioning units on the roof, etc. While there are many advantages of flat roofs, there are also some drawbacks. One drawback is that water, dirt, and debris can accumulate on a roof and potentially lead to damage. This damage can occur in just about any climate but fortunately, there are protective coatings that can be professionally installed to protect your flat roof. And, they even offer other advantages in addition to the protection that many homeowners enjoy. Hunker elaborates on the importance of applying a protective coating to your flat roof, “Periodically coating a flat roof may double the roof’s lifespan. While most flat roofs last at least 10 years, coating it every five to eight years can double its useful life, as well as save you money. All flat roofs are not alike, and how often such roofs should be coated depends on the materials, climate, and any needed repairs…The coating for a flat roof varies, depending on the roof’s substrate and whether the coating adheres. Usually, coatings don’t adhere as well to smooth and hard surfaces, in contrast to irregular or rougher surfaces. Coatings do not adhere as well to chemically inert surfaces as they do to chemically active surfaces. To improve the coating’s adhesion, use a base coat or primer beforehand, as recommended by the coating manufacturer. Coatings are available for specific types of roof membranes and substrates…Coating the roof periodically offers additional advantages besides extending its lifespan. It lowers the temperature of the roof, which may result in utility bill savings. Various coatings include different performance factors. Make sure that all necessary roof repairs are completed before coating is applied. It is also imperative that the correct coating for the particular substrate is applied, so consult with the roofer or manufacturer to ensure that the proper product is used on your roof.” Needless to say, it is important to ensure you have a flat roof with protective coating. Below are 2 types of protective coatings that we at Hahn Roofing use to protect our client’s flat roofs.
2 Types of Flat Roof Protective Coatings
- Silicone Tropical Roof Systems
- Silicone protective roof coating offers a professional-grade, high-performing seal that provides a weatherproof, durable, and breathable barrier. Further, it resists degradation from the sun’s UV rays and other natural weathering that may occur.
- Elastomeric Tropical Roof Systems
- Elastomeric protective roof coating can adhere well under water or on wet surfaces and is ideal for performing under harsh conditions because it has high elongation and tensile strength. It can also be applied to vertical surfaces without sagging and is highly reflective to protect against the sun and also has strong water and chemical resistance.