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Proper Application of Elastomeric Roof Coating System: Why Adhesion is Important

A roof coating system is a liquid-applied roofing membrane generally made of asphalt, plasticizers, solvents, and fillers. The roof coating system will adhere to the existing roof substrate to create a waterproofing and weatherproofing barrier.

It is crucial to understand how the roof coating system works and what factors can affect adhesion so you can ensure a proper application. This blog post will discuss why adhesion is important in the proper application of an elastomeric roof coating system. We will also walk you through the proper application of roof coatings.

What Is an Elastomeric Roof Coating System?

An elastomeric roof coating system is a type of roof coating that is designed to adhere to the roof substrate and create a waterproofing barrier. Elastomeric roof coating systems are designed to be applied in a two-coat system. The first coat is applied to the roof substrate, and the second coat is applied over the first coat.

The second coat helps to create a stronger bond between the roof coating and the roof substrate. It is important to note that elastomeric roof coating systems are not designed to be applied in a one-coat system. This is to ensure the protection needed for your existing roof.

Why Proper Adhesion Is Important

The adhesion between the roof coating and the roof substrate creates a waterproofing barrier. Having good adhesion is essential. A good roof coating system will protect the roof substrate from weathering, UV rays, and physical damage. This will help to extend the life of the roof. Additionally, a proper elastomeric roof coating adhesion provides a seamless membrane that:

  • Withstands ponding water
  • Protects against ultraviolet radiation and weathering
  • Reduces energy costs
  • Minimizes building maintenance costs by reducing the need for repairs
  • Increases the life of the roofing system by protecting it from physical damage
  • Inhibits the growth of mold, mildew, and algae
  • Prevents leaks
  • Reduces energy costs
  • Resists wind uplift
  • Resists thermal cycling

These are just some of the benefits of proper adhesion in elastomeric roof coatings. As you can see, it is crucial to ensure a good bond between the roof coating and the roof substrate. Otherwise, you will not be able to reap all the benefits that an elastomeric roof coating system has to offer.

Factors That Affect Proper Adhesion

There are many factors that can affect the adhesion of elastomeric roof coatings. Some of these factors include:

  • Surface preparation
  • Type of roof substrate
  • Age of roof substrate
  • Environmental conditions during application

Let’s discuss each factor in detail so you can understand how it can impact the proper adhesion of roof coatings.

Surface Preparation

One of the most important factors that will affect the adhesion of roof coatings is the surface preparation. The roof substrate must be clean, dry, and free of any loose debris before the application of roof coatings.

If the roof substrate is not properly prepared, it will not allow the roof coating to adhere properly. This can lead to a host of problems, such as premature failure, leaks, and increased energy costs.

Type of Roof Substrate

Another factor that will affect the adhesion of roof coatings is the type of roof substrate. The most common roof substrates are asphalt, concrete, metal, and wood.

The roof substrate must be clean and dry before applying the roof coating. If the roof substrate is not clean, the roof coating will not adhere properly. If the roof substrate is not dry, the roof coating will not cure properly and will not create a waterproofing barrier.

Age of Roof Substrate

The age of the roof substrate is another factor that can affect the adhesion of roof coatings. If the roof substrate is new, it will be easier for the roof coating to adhere. However, if the roof substrate is old, it may be more difficult for the roof coating to adhere.

This is because the roof substrate may have been weathered by the sun, wind, and rain. The roof substrate may also have been damaged by physical objects.

Environmental Conditions During Application

The environmental conditions during the application of roof coatings can also affect the adhesion of roof coatings. If the temperature is too cold or too hot, it can impact the adhesion of roof coatings.

Additionally, if the humidity is too high or too low, it can also impact the adhesion of roof coatings. The ideal temperature for applying roof coatings is between 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal humidity for applying roof coatings is between 40-60%.

How to Apply the Elastomeric Coating System

Now that we understand why adhesion is essential and what factors can affect adhesion, we can discuss how to apply an elastomeric roof coating system properly. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying an elastomeric roof coating system. Generally, here’s how to apply an elastomeric roof coating system:

  1. The roof substrate must be clean and dry before applying the roof coating.
  2. The first coat should be applied to the roof substrate, and the second coat should be applied over the first coat. It is important to ensure that the roof coating is evenly distributed over the roof substrate.
  3. Once the roof coating is applied, it is important to allow it to cure properly. The roof coating will cure in 24-48 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity conditions.
  4. If you follow these instructions, you will be able to apply an elastomeric roof coating system properly and create a waterproofing barrier.

What to Expect in Poor Roof Coating Adhesion

Let’s discuss what can happen if the roof coating does not adhere properly. If the roof coating does not adhere properly, this can result in:

  • Leaks
  • Premature failure of the roof coating system
  • Wind uplift
  • Ponding water

These problems can be avoided if the roof coating is applied correctly. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the roof coating to cure properly before walking on the roof.

Types of Elastomeric Roof Coatings

There are three types of elastomeric coating systems; acrylic, silicone, and urethane. Each of them has different benefits that can be advantageous for your roofing system.

Acrylic Coating

The acrylic roof coating is water-based. It is a white elastomeric roof coating that has reflective properties. The acrylic roof coating is the most common type of roof coating and also the most economical option.

Acrylic roof coatings are elastomeric coatings sometimes referred to as “original,” because they were initially developed for metal roofs. They’re also suitable for several flat roof substrates, including modified bitumen, single-ply EPDM, built-up roofs, and polyurethane foam roofs.

Silicone Coating

Silicone elastomeric coatings are solvent-based roof coatings. It is available in clear and white. Silicone roof coating is more expensive than the acrylic roof coating, but it has better waterproofing properties.

They’re a good option for restorations and safeguarding a wide range of commercial roofing materials, including metal, modified bitumen, single-ply EPDM, TPO, built-up roofs, concrete roof decks, and polyurethane foam roofs.

Urethane Coating

The urethane roof coating is a solvent-based elastomeric roof coating. It is available in clear and white. Urethane is a one-coat paint that gives metal roof surfaces an ultra-smooth, high-gloss finish. This coating is utilized in almost all industrial sectors to provide a smooth, long-lasting finish with excellent corrosion, abrasion, and chemical resistance.

It is important to choose the right roof coating for your roofing system. At Tucson Rubberized Coatings, we can help you choose the right roof coating for your roof.

Conclusion

Adhesion is critical to the success of any roof coating system. The roof coating must adhere to the roof surface in order to be effective. If the roof coating does not adhere to the roof surface, it will not be able to protect the roof from weathering. The roof coating must be applied evenly to the roof surface and allowed to cure properly. Contact Tucson Rubberized Coatings for all your roof coating needs! We are experts in roof coatings and can help you choose the right roof coating for your roof.