Applying an elastomeric roof coating to your building can protect your underlying roof, which is very important for preventing costly future repairs. It can also help you to save on your energy costs, because coatings can reflect the sun’s heat and keep the heat out of your building. There are many options for roof coverings, but elastomeric roof coating is a great choice for many reasons.
Choosing the right coating means you need to be aware of the key features that make these roof coatings so beneficial. That allows you to choose the best quality when you select the coating for your roof.
Elasticity in Elastomeric Roof Coatings
This type of roof coating is ideal for climates where the temperature can change drastically. This is because of the coating’s elasticity, which means how well it moves as the building expands and contracts with the temperature change. Choose a coating that has a high elasticity rating to prevent breakage.
Perm Factor
The perm factor of a roof coating means how well it resists moisture. If the elastomeric roof coating has a lower perm factor, that means it is much more water proof. Choose the lowest perm factor you can find to prevent leaks.
Strength in Elastomeric Roof Coating
Tensile strength is the measurement of how well the coating will hold together over the years. Weather exposure is the key thing that causes coatings to deteriorate, so be sure to ask the manufacturer or installer about the coating’s ability to withstand the elements.
Tear Resistance
Tear resistance is different than tensile strength in that it measures how well the elastomeric roof coating will avoid tearing from foot traffic or other elements. It primarily measures how well the coating can withstand direct forces – such as hail falling on the roof – rather than UV rays and other environmental factors.
Moisture Gain by Weight
This feature of roof coatings measures how well the coating will either repel or absorb water so that it doesn’t come into contact with the surface below. Be sure to choose a coating with a good rating in this area to prevent damage to your building itself.
Peel Adhesion
You want to be sure that your coating will stick to the roof below no matter the conditions. Certain coatings are attached in different ways, so be sure to ask the installer which method is best for the coating you’ve chosen, and how well it will adhere over the years.
Reflectivity in Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Finally, you do want to consider how well the coating will reflect heat and light away from the building. Reflective coatings are usually white, while absorbing coatings are usually black. Be sure to consider this rating carefully, as it can drastically change your utility bills in the future.
When shopping for the roof coating that will best suit your building, be sure to keep these seven characteristics in mind. Choose the best quality that fits into your budget and you’ll have a solid roof for decades to come.