Are you planning to get your flat roof coated? Naturally, you would encounter difficulties in choosing the right type of coating. Well, in that case, you aren’t alone.
You have multiple types of flat roof coatings. This can make it challenging to pick the best. Choosing the best coating for your roof is imperative. It ensures that your roof would be getting a much-needed layer of protection. This coating protects the roof from weather elements, oxidation, and other factors that could inflict potential damage.
What are the most popular roof coatings?
While there are various types of roof coatings, not every coat might be compatible with your roof. Some of the most popular roof coating options are:
- TPO
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) consists of a single-ply membrane of thermoplastic polyolefin. The coating usually has a lifespan of about twenty to thirty years.
It is easy to install TPO membranes, and they provide excellent protection. A TPO coating would be durable and sturdy.
Moreover, it is resistant to UV rays, bacteria, insects, and moisture. Usually white, TPO membranes are also great insulators. This type of coating helps to keep the building cool by reflecting the sunlight.
- Elastomeric membrane
Elastomeric membranes have been a popular roof coating option for almost four decades. It is a good option in regions where the temperatures fluctuate very often.
An elastomeric membrane coating is highly watertight, weather-resistant, and looks aesthetically pleasing.
However, it is necessary to get the coating installed by an experienced professional. The installation process involves fusing the membrane to a fusing membrane using a blowtorch. Inexperience in the job could potentially lead to a fire hazard.
- Silicone
The highly elastic nature of silicone allows it to adhere very well to various surfaces. Silicone coating is resistant to ultraviolet rays in harsh weather conditions. Interestingly, it also performs well in situations where water might be ponding on the roof.
Silicone comes with high emissivity and reflectivity ratings, thereby offering hood insulation.
- Acrylic
If you are looking for cost-effectiveness, acrylic is a viable option. Acrylic coatings work well on a variety of roof materials. Acrylic coatings can help in keeping homes or offices cool by reflecting away sunlight.
However, you would have to get the coating cured at regular intervals, based on the weather conditions in the area. Acrylic coatings cannot withstand ponding water and require installation during dry weather.
- Polyurethane coatings
Originally developed to coat and protect foam roofs, polyurethane coatings now find applications on a wide range of roofing materials. This type of coating is particularly effective in protecting roofs from foot traffic and impact damage.
However, this material isn’t very resistant to UV radiation. Usually, the application of polyurethane coatings takes place by spraying over other membranes.
How to choose the best coating for your roof?
As understandable from the information above, different types of roof coatings have their own properties. A coating that is suitable for one roof may not be an ideal choice for another. While choosing a roof coating, you would have to consider the following factors:
- The material of your roof
- The climatic condition in your region
- Your budget
- Maintenance costs
- Quality of the coating
Among the various flat roof coating materials, TPO and elastomeric membranes happen to be the best options. Both provide all the necessary protection and can last up to three decades.
Considering the functional value and durability of these materials, they are essentially great investments. Picking the right coating is significantly important, as it can save you from expensive roof repairs in the future.
