Christophor Jurin’s article for About.com discusses the various factors property owners must consider as regards sealants or coating for low-sloped and flat roofing systems. Among other things, Jurin emphasizes the need to identify whether or not a flat roof requires to be coated in the first place. Some roofing materials are sensitive to certain coating materials; for instance, asphalt coatings don’t go well with single-ply roof systems.
Some membrane types do not require coatings in order to be maintained while some membrane types do require a coating in order to keep the roof system in good working order. And still others can be coated for reflectivity and energy savings, but do not require a maintenance coating. It is important to understand what type of roof you have to avoid applying the wrong coating to the roof system which can cause damages to the roof membrane that can only be repaired through a complete roof replacement.
Aside from the type of roofing system, it is also necessary to consider the roof’s age. Those who just moved to a newly built house in Round Rock, Texas (a city that’s well-known for being one of the best places for families, according to Family Circle Magazine), for instance, should be careful not to immediately coat their flat roofs. According to Jurin, the oil on the surface of a new roof reduces adhesion, causing the coating to flake off later on; old and damaged roofs, however, are another matter entirely.
Many people believe the false assumption that you can seal a leak. If your roof system is severely aged or is leaking, it may be best to consider replacing the roof instead of coating it.
In any case, expert roofers from roofing companies like Willi Roofing Services make sure that coal-tar-pitch built-up roofing gets coated with asphaltic or tar-based coating, while single ply systems are reinforced with acrylic coating. Apart from sealing the surface of Round Rock, TX roofing systems against the elements, the right coating can reflect heat and light back to the atmostphere, thereby improving a building’s energy efficiency.
Keep in mind that not all types of roofing in Round Rock require coating to last. Metal roofs made of copper or aluminum, for instance, may not require synthetic coating, but this is only because they can create their own shield. For better roof coating results, it’s always better to seek help from professionals.
(From: When Do I Coat My Roof System?, About.com)
