Roof coatings can be a great way to extend the life of your roof, improve energy efficiency, and enhance protection against the elements. However, not all roof types are ideal candidates for coating. Here’s how you can determine if your roof type is suitable for roof coating:
1. Flat or Low-Slope Roofs
- Why It’s a Good Candidate: Roof coatings are especially effective on flat or low-slope roofs because they provide a seamless, waterproof barrier that helps prevent leaks. These roofs are more prone to pooling water, and a coating can help direct water off the surface.
- Materials: Common roof materials that benefit from coatings include built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen, and single-ply systems like TPO and EPDM.
2. Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Why It Can Be a Candidate: Asphalt shingles can sometimes be coated, but it depends on their condition. If the shingles are in good shape with no major damage or curling, a coating can help protect them from UV damage and extend their life.
- Considerations: It’s best to use a coating designed for asphalt shingles, and it may not be as effective as for flat roofs. Coating on older or damaged shingles might not adhere properly and could cause further issues.
3. Metal Roofs
- Why It’s a Good Candidate: Metal roofs are excellent candidates for coatings. They can benefit from a reflective coating that reduces heat absorption, keeping your home cooler in hot weather and potentially lowering energy bills.
- Materials: Most metal roof types, including steel, aluminum, and galvanized metal, can be coated, and the coating can help prevent rust and corrosion, especially in areas with high humidity or frequent rain.
- Considerations: Ensure that the metal roof is clean and free of rust before applying a coating for better adhesion and long-lasting results.
4. Tile Roofs (Concrete, Clay, Slate)
- Why It Can Be a Candidate: Tile roofs, especially concrete and clay, can benefit from roof coatings that provide UV protection, help with waterproofing, and extend their lifespan.
- Considerations: Tile roofs are relatively durable on their own, but a coating can offer added protection. Slate roofs are generally not suitable for coatings due to their fragile nature, as applying a coating could cause more harm than good.
5. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
- Why It’s a Good Candidate: BUR roofs, often made of multiple layers of asphalt and felt, can benefit significantly from a coating. These roofs are prone to cracking and degradation over time, and applying a reflective roof coating can help prevent this, extending the life of the roof.
- Considerations: Coating BUR roofs may help seal the surface and reduce the need for frequent repairs. However, the surface should be in good condition with no significant damage.
6. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- Why It’s a Good Candidate: EPDM rubber roofs are common on flat or low-slope roofs and are generally good candidates for coatings. Applying a coating to EPDM can help enhance its weather resistance, improve its UV reflectivity, and extend its life.
- Considerations: Be sure to clean the EPDM roof thoroughly before applying a coating, as dirt and debris can prevent proper adhesion.
7. TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
- Why It’s a Good Candidate: TPO is another popular material for flat roofs, and it can be coated with the right type of reflective coating to improve energy efficiency and protect against UV rays.
- Considerations: Just like EPDM, cleaning the surface before application is critical for ensuring the coating adheres properly and performs well.
8. Shakes or Wood Shingle Roofs
- Why It Might Not Be Ideal: Wood roofs are not typically great candidates for roof coatings. Wood shakes and shingles are more porous, and applying a coating may trap moisture in the wood, potentially leading to mold or rotting.
- Considerations: If you do decide to coat a wood roof, use a coating specifically designed for wood, and make sure the roof is well-maintained and free from moisture.
9. Gravel (Ballasted) Roofs
- Why It Might Not Be Ideal: Gravel roofs, often found on commercial buildings, are typically not good candidates for coatings because the gravel can interfere with proper adhesion. Additionally, gravel roofs are often installed with a very specific drainage design, which a coating could disrupt.
- Considerations: If a coating is necessary, consult a roofing professional to determine if the gravel roof can be coated effectively without damaging the system.
Factors to Consider
- Roof Condition: For any roof type, coatings are best applied when the roof is in relatively good condition. If your roof has significant damage, curling, or missing shingles, a coating might not adhere properly and could make problems worse.
- Climate: Roof coatings can provide added protection against UV rays, rain, and snow. If you live in a hot climate, a reflective coating can help lower cooling costs. In colder climates, a coating can help protect against ice dams and prevent the roof from cracking due to freeze-thaw cycles.
- Roof Slope: Steeply sloped roofs are typically not candidates for coatings because coatings are most effective on flat or low-slope roofs, where water pooling is a concern.
Conclusion
Roof coatings are a great option for many types of roofs, particularly flat and low-slope roofs, metal roofs, and some types of asphalt and tile roofs. Before deciding, assess the condition of your roof and consider factors like the roof material, age, and climate. Always consult a professional roofer to determine the best course of action for your specific roof type.