FAQs
Coating will extend the life of the roof, by reducing heat transfer into the building, decreasing thermal shock (thermal expansion and contraction of the roof membrane), and helping to mitigate leaks. Reflective coatings also can reduce heat energy costs and improve the aesthetics of the roof.
Almost all types of roofs can be coated. Some examples include metal, spray polyurethane, single-ply, modified bitumen, Built-up roof (BUR) systems, etc. Without special treatments, ballasted and gravel surfaced membranes are not typically acceptable roof surfaces for coating membranes.
There are several types of reflective roof coatings that impart varied reflectance rates/ values. Typically, the reflective coatings are what are commonly referred to as white coatings and there are also aluminum coatings typically used with asphalt. Highly reflective white roof coatings are typically comprised of acrylics, urethanes, silicones, SBS, SEBS, and other types.
The coating can be applied using spray, roller or brush.
A primer is no substitute for thorough cleaning. However, sometimes primers are required, depending on substrate and type of coating. Refer to your coating manufacturer for specific requirements.
This depends on the coating manufacturer and the project specifications. When in doubt, consult the coating manufacturer you are working with.
The roof must be thoroughly cleaned, and allowed to dry thoroughly. This is a critical step to ensure a successful coating application. Be careful not to damage the lap seams. Care should be taken when pressure washing not to disturb the integrity of the underlying roof membrane particularly where there are adhered seams. Refer to the specific coating manufacturer you are using for their specific requirements for roof preparation.
Yes, a new roof should be coated if the building owner wants to add a highly reflective roof coating to reduce energy costs. The buyer should be aware of any warranties provided for a new roof that may violate that warranty during the period it is in force via the use of a roof coating. This will extend the roof’s service life. A reflective roof coating will reduce the heat load on the roofing assembly.
This depends on the geographic location, insulation, and cost of electricity. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), and several roofing material manufacturers have computer programs that can estimate the savings. A growing number of energy consultants are available to provide environmental regulation compliance information.
This depends on the local, state, and federal code enforcement requirements that have jurisdiction in your area. The International Code Council (ICC) provides detailed information on the status of I-Code adoption throughout the United States.
Yes. The coating becomes the first layer of UV and waterproofing protection for the roof, and helps reduce expansion and contraction (thermal shock) of the roof.
Yes. Coating manufacturers offer different types of warranties depending on your needs and applications.
Based on long-term histories, typically the roof life of a properly applied roof coating can be extended up to 10 years or more. Performance can vary depending on type and conditions, as well as the coating film thickness.
Yes. As the coating wears away, additional coating can be applied. Most coatings systems are renewable and sustainable. Refer to the specific coating manufacturer you are using for their specific requirements on re-coating applications.
The coating can be applied by an experienced roof coatings applicator. A roofing contractor is strongly recommended if there are such issues as existing leaks, wet insulation, damaged deck, or manufacturers’ warranties.
That depends on the coating. All roofs should be designed and built to have positive drainage and not allow ponding water. Some coatings are designed to withstand ponding conditions; however, not all coatings will withstand these conditions. Check with your manufacturer to see if your coating can withstand ponding water conditions.
For water borne coatings, the ambient air temperature should be 50oF (10oC) and rising, with no rain for the next 24 hours. Solvent borne coatings can be applied in colder weather. As always, check with the coating manufacturer.
That depends on many factors: air temperature, wind, roof surface temperature, relative humidity (water borne coatings) coating color and the type of coating applied. For example, some coatings are moisture cured and thus humidity assists in its curing process.
Rusted metal roofs can be coated after the rust conditions have been addressed. If the roof is “white rust” (zinc or aluminum) it can be coated after cleaning. If the roof is “red rust” the rust must be removed or treated with a corrosion inhibiting primer. All rusted fasteners should be treated or replaced.
ENERGY STAR is a US Government sponsored program encouraging the use of energy efficient products. Roofing materials including coatings can qualify for ENERGY STAR if the coating meets specific solar reflectance minimum criteria.
The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) is an independent, non-profit organization that maintains a third-party rating system for radiative properties of roof surfacing materials.
Some states, municipalities and utilities have programs. Check with your coatings manufacturer for further information. As a membership benefit, RCMA provides maintains a database of current information on rebates and tax credits for installing reflective roofs. RCMA’s customized search tool can be used to find the most up-to-date listings of reflective roofing financial incentives available.
Roof coatings are typically classified as maintenance, and in many cases can be written off as such in the same calendar year in which the coating application is completed; check with your CFO for specific details on roof maintenance tax deductions.
It is recommended that the roof, including the coating, be inspected semi-annually and after a major storm or high wind “event”. Additional coating may need to be applied to repair damage to the coating and underlying roofing substrate. Check with the manufacturer and/or warranty program requirements.
Solar Reflectance is a measure of the ability of a material (roof coating) to reflect the sun’s radiation. Thermal Emittance is a measure of the material (roof coating) to release trapped heat back into the atmosphere.
While coatings may potentially stop minor leaks, the roof should be properly repaired and dried prior to coating application. Coatings may be able to seal pinhole leaks, which are leaks not visible to the naked eye. If the roof is leaking, the roof leak will need to be identified and repaired prior to any recoating; do not expect the coating to find and seal the leaks.
Check with the coating manufacturer who may be able to suggest applicators who have used their products and have familiarity with the application. Another option would be to interview contractors and ask specific questions about their proven ability to install roof coatings. Contractors affiliated with the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or local roofing contractor trade associations typically are more knowledgeable. Consult those groups’ websites for contractors.