Everything You Need to Know About Elastomeric Roof Coatings

When it comes to protecting your roof and extending its lifespan, elastomeric roof coatings are a popular choice among homeowners and commercial property owners alike. These versatile and durable coatings offer a range of benefits, making them an excellent option for various types of roofs. In this blog, we’ll delve into what elastomeric roof coatings are, their advantages, and why you might consider using one for your roofing needs.

What is an Elastomeric Roof Coating?

An elastomeric roof coating is a type of liquid-applied roofing membrane designed to provide a seamless, waterproofing, and reflective layer to protect your roof. These coatings are made from a flexible, rubber-like material that can stretch and move with the roof, which is especially beneficial for roofs that experience significant temperature fluctuations or movement. The key characteristic of elastomeric coatings is their elasticity, allowing them to expand and contract without cracking or losing adhesion.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Waterproofing: One of the primary benefits of elastomeric roof coatings is their excellent waterproofing capabilities. They create a seamless barrier that helps prevent water from seeping through, reducing the risk of water damage.
2. Flexibility and Durability: Elastomeric coatings are highly flexible, making them ideal for roofs that undergo expansion and contraction due to temperature changes such as metal and shingle roofs. This flexibility helps prevent cracking and extends the coating’s lifespan.
3. Reflectivity and Energy Efficiency: Many elastomeric roof coatings are designed to be highly reflective, which helps reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. This can lead to lower cooling costs and improved energy efficiency, especially in hot climates.
4. Ease of Application: These coatings can be applied to a variety of roofing materials, including metal, concrete, and modified bitumen, using brushes, rollers, or spray equipment. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of roofing projects.
5. Cost-Effective Maintenance: Applying an acrylic elastomeric roof coating like PERMAKOTE® can be a cost-effective way to extend the life of your roof without the need for complete replacement. Regular maintenance and reapplication can help keep your roof in good condition for many years.

Types of Elastomeric Roof Coatings

There are several types of elastomeric roof coatings available, each with its own unique properties and best-use scenarios:

1. Acrylic: Acrylic coatings are water-based and known for their UV resistance and reflectivity. They are a popular choice for roofs in sunny climates. These are the most cost-effective, easiest to apply and user friendly. Check out our best elastomeric roof coating PERMAGARD®
2. Silicone: Silicone roof coatings are excellent for waterproofing and are highly resistant to ponding water.  PERMASIL PLUS™ silicone is a good option for flat or low-slope roofs.
3. Polyurethane: Polyurethane roof coatings are known for their durability and resistance to abrasion. They are often used on roofs with heavy foot traffic. These tend to be the most expensive and need to be top coated with an acrylic roof coating like PERMAKOTE®.
4. Butyl: Butyl roof coatings provide adhesion and elongation properties. They are commonly used for roofs with high movement. Butyl does tend to dry out and can cause premature problems over time.

Application and Maintenance Tips

• Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial for the success of an elastomeric roof coating. The roof surface must be clean, dry, and free of debris or loose material.
• Weather Considerations: Apply the coating during favorable weather conditions. Avoid application during rain or extreme temperatures to ensure proper curing and adhesion.
• Regular Inspections: Perform regular roof inspections to identify any areas of wear or damage. Promptly address any issues to maintain the integrity of the coating.
• Reapplication: Depending on the type of coating and environmental conditions, elastomeric coatings may need to be reapplied every 5-20+ years to maintain optimal performance.

Elastomeric roof coatings offer a versatile and cost-effective solution for protecting and extending the life of your roof. Whether you’re seeking to improve energy efficiency, or looking to prolong your roof’s lifespan, roof coatings can provide the durability and flexibility needed to meet your roofing needs. We even have a roof coating for shingle roofs called PERMAKOTE® Shingle Roof Coating.  Consider consulting with a roofing professional to determine the best type of roof coating for your specific roof type and climate conditions. With proper application and maintenance, an elastomeric roof coating can be a valuable investment in the longevity and performance of your roof.