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Elastomeric Coatings: Your Guide to Cool, Dry, and Worry-Free Roofs

Having a durable and reliable roof is crucial for any building owner. But with traditional roofing materials, leaks, heat absorption, and wear and tear are inevitable concerns. Fortunately, a new and innovative solution has emerged: elastomeric coatings.

What Exactly are Elastomeric Coatings?

Elastomeric coatings are not your typical paint. Imagine applying a thick, protective layer like a coat of paint, but instead of a paintbrush, you use a specialized application process. This coating, composed of silicone, acrylic, and urethane, becomes an integral part of your roof, offering exceptional benefits.

The key to its effectiveness lies in its “elastomeric” property. This means the coating can expand twice its size and return to its original form, allowing it to adapt to temperature fluctuations and slight movements in the roof structure. This flexibility prevents cracking, peeling, and other damage commonly seen in traditional roofing materials.

WHAT ARE THE THREE TYPES OF ELASTOMERIC COATINGS?

The three most commonly used types of elastomeric coatings are acrylic, silicone, and urethane.

Acrylic – Acrylic is a water-based elastomeric coating that is only applied to roofs with a slope. It is the cheapest of the three types of elastomeric coatings, but it is also very durable. Acrylic roof coating is a popular choice for both sloped metal roofs and flat roofs due to its several advantages. It is cost-effective, UV-resistant, and easy to install. At HP Roofing Pro, we use Acrylic Roof Coating Products with the RainArmor system. RainArmor is a commercial roofing system designed to be lightweight, high-performance, and sustainable. It combines the best features of single-ply and built-up systems for a long-lasting solution.

The three essential components are waterproofing with asphalt, reinforcement with lightweight stitch-bonded polyester, and reflectivity with a two-phase acrylic elastomeric surfacing that ensures long-lasting protection against UV rays and the sun’s heat, making the system almost completely UV inert and highly durable. Proper maintenance means a RainArmor Roofing System can last beyond the building’s lifespan.

Silicone – Silicone roof coatings are a high-performing, middle-priced option made from silicone resin that can withstand ponding water, making them ideal for flat roofs. They offer twice the weather resistance of acrylics, cost around $27-$35 per gallon, and come with a 10-20 year warranty. Consider installing them before major issues arise, ideally when the existing roof has minimal moisture for a cost-effective installation of around $4-8 per square foot. 

Urethane – Elastomeric coatings offer excellent resistance to impact and weathering, with urethanes providing the highest impact resistance among the three types. However, urethanes are generally more expensive and may not perform well when exposed to standing water for extended periods.

Benefits of Elastomeric Coatings

Reflectivity: Elastomeric coatings are often white or light-colored, reflecting sunlight and keeping your roof cooler. This translates to lower cooling costs and a more comfortable indoor environment.

Superior Waterproofing: Unlike other roof coatings, elastomeric coatings are truly waterproof. They form a seamless barrier, preventing water from penetrating and causing leaks or damage.

Extended Roof Life: This innovative solution acts as a protective shield, preventing wear and tear caused by harsh weather conditions. This significantly extends the lifespan of your existing roof, saving you money on costly replacements.

Warranty and Peace of Mind: Most elastomeric coatings come with a 10-20-year warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing your roof is protected.

Monolithic Design: Unlike traditional roofing materials with seams, elastomeric coatings create a single, seamless layer. This eliminates the risk of leaks and water damage associated with seams.

When to Consider Elastomeric Coatings

Here are some signs that indicate your roof might benefit from an elastomeric coating:

Small leaks: Don’t wait for major leaks to occur. Elastomeric coatings are a proactive solution to address minor leaks before they escalate.

Worn-down flashings: Flashings are critical for sealing around vents, pipes, and other roof penetrations. Worn-down flashings can lead to leaks, and elastomeric coatings provide a seamless and durable solution.

Lifting seams: Seams in traditional roofing materials are susceptible to lifting and cracking over time. Elastomeric coatings eliminate this concern, ensuring your roof remains watertight.

Expired warranty: If your existing roof warranty has expired, applying an elastomeric coating is an excellent option to extend its lifespan and avoid costly replacements.

Conclusion

Elastomeric coatings are a game-changer in the roofing industry. They offer a unique combination of energy savings, superior waterproofing, extended roof life, and peace of mind. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting solution for your roof, consider investing in elastomeric coatings.

Contact Us for more information or a free estimate. 

Resources

* RainArmor Systems: [https://rainarmor.info/)

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