Flat roofs are more vulnerable to moisture and UV damage. Roof coatings can help protect your commercial roof from wear and tear and even extend its lifespan. However, choosing the wrong kind of coating can diminish the level of protection they provide. The residential roofing contractors at Alpine Roofing Construction share tips on how to choose the right one below.
The Rougher the Surface, the Better
Before you explore the different types of coatings, find out what kind of surface your roof has. As a rule of thumb, roof coatings adhere better to rough and chemically active substrates. However, there are a few exceptions.
What About Gravel?
Manufacturers add gravel to flat roofs to protect them from UV rays. If you want to increase the level of UV protection, we don’t recommend roof coatings. That’s because gravel moves around too much, increasing the risk of damage to the coating and decreasing the level of UV protection.
If you want to enhance your roof’s level of protection against UV rays and moisture, we recommend asking your contractor first. Single-ply roofing, for example, will usually have a reflective surface and therefore have little to benefit from coatings. On the other hand, concrete roofs, which usually experience a lot of foot traffic, have a lot to benefit from coatings. Adding primer to the surface before applying the coating can help it stick better to the surface.
Exploring Your Options
Knowing what kind of surface your roof has can help you narrow down your choices. However, several other factors, like your neighborhood’s climate, can affect the coating’s effectiveness. Not to mention you’ll have to balance the coating’s performance with its cost. A commercial or residential roofing contractor can help you find the right kind.
Looking for a reputable contractor in your area?
Alpine Roofing Construction, a BBB A-plus rated contractor, offers commercial and residential roofing services. To get a free quote, call us at (214) 380-4607. Or leave us a message on this form. We serve homeowners in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington, TX.