Roof coating involves applying a coating material to the roof surface to protect it from the elements. The roof coatings can be made from materials such as asphalt, elastomeric, polyurea, and even silicone. Roofs can be affected by factors such as sunlight. Some of the roofing constituents, for instance, like asphalt, are much easier to treat since they are durable. This form of coating provides an alternative to roof replacement that helps save on the maintenance cost of the building.
Different types of waterproof coatings for roofs include:
- Silicone roof coating. This form of coating is made from a silicone polymer. They are structured to provide extreme weather protection and are suitable for roofs exposed to extreme sun and wind. The silicone roof coatings are also resistant to both moss and algae growth. This makes them ideal to use in homes located in humid climates. If you need to keep low temperatures in your home, then you can opt for this kind of coating. The coating can also help reflect away beams of UV rays to help cool the house. It is capable of tackling both cold and hot weather.
- Elastomeric roof coating. The elastomeric roof coating is made from an elastomer. Elastomer is a type of synthetic rubber. A unique rubbery fluid is used during elastomeric waterproofing. Once the coat has been applied, a thin rubber waterproof membrane is created. It is ideal to use as an outdoor waterproof as it can stretch in extreme sunlight. The liquid can be troweled, rolled on, or sprayed on the roof. They are normally structured to be durable and flexible. They tend to offer outstanding protection against the wind and extreme sunlight. The elastomeric roofing can reflect away UV rays, thus creating a cooling effect in your house. It is also strong and easy to maintain. The small patches that can occur after the elastomeric coating has been applied can be easily fixed. The elastic properties of the coating make it easier for the roof to stretch without being smashed.
- Asphalt roof coating. These are the commonly used roof coating. They are designed from a mixture of rubber and asphalt. They are durable and easy to spray. They offer amazing protection against both the sun and wind.
- Acrylic roof coatings. This form of coating is designed from acrylic resin. It is durable enough to offer protection against the sun and even prevents the growth of moss and algae. This form of coating is ideal for homes in humid and hot regions. The acrylic roof coating is easy to fix, and it is also cost-effective. This form of coating is not applied directly to the roof as it requires another strong roofing material. The water-based solution is capable of protecting the roof against any form of corrosion. The acrylic coating is relatively cheaper as compared to other forms of coatings. Since it is a water-based solution, then it is cost-effective. If you decide to use the acrylic coating, then then you will be required to keep on spraying the coating after a duration of time.
- Polyurea roof coating. The polyurea roof coating is made from polyurethane polymer. They tend to offer excellent protection of the roof from extreme wind and sunlight. They are also resilient to the growth of both moss and algae. They are also ideal for homes situated in hot and humid regions. This form of coating is ideal to use on flat roofs. The liquid can easily stretch since it is highly malleable. Since the liquid is sensitive to any moisture content, then it is always advisable to check whether there is any moisture on the roof before applying the coating.
- Rubber roof coating. Rubber roof coating is another popular used waterproof coating for roofs. However, debris present in the roof can interfere with the coating after a long duration of time. The frequent expansion and contraction of the coating can make it crack in the later days.
- Bituminous waterproof coating. Since bitumen is highly hydrophobic, it can be used to coat roofs. It is known to be flexible since it has both fiber and polymer reinforcements. This black fluid is normally applied as paint on the roof surface. Since it can turn brittle under the sunlight, it is always advisable to cover the layer with a more protective layer, for instance, cement.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, there are innumerable types of waterproof roof coatings. The above article has illustrated some of the coatings that can be used on the roof. The type of waterproof coating will also depend on the type of your roof.