Should I coat my commercial flat roof or replace it?
A roof coating can be a good option when the existing roof is in fair condition. It costs half or less the price of a replacement, installs in about a third of the time and does not require a tear-off. If the roof has significant damage, a replacement may be the better choice. A roof inspection will tell you which option fits your roof.
Benefits of a roof coating
A roof coating costs half or less the price of a roof replacement, and installation takes about a third of the time. The existing roof stays in place, so there is less noise, trash and debris, and your business can stay open. A coating creates a single continuous membrane, can lower your roof temperature and reduce cooling costs, and warranties including labor and material are available for up to 20 years.
When a replacement may be the better choice
A coating goes over your existing roof, so the roof underneath needs to be in good enough condition to coat. Wet insulation, a damaged roof deck or a membrane that has come loose may need to be repaired or replaced first. Roof evaluations and lifespan reports can help you decide.
Silicone or acrylic
Silicone coatings hold up well to UV exposure, ponding water and temperature extremes, which makes them a strong choice for flat and low-slope roofs. Acrylic coatings are cost effective and highly reflective, and they work well on sloped roofs and many roof types. Acrylic coatings cannot be applied when temperatures drop below 50 degrees.
Related Questions
Can a metal roof be coated?
Yes. Roof coatings can be used on metal roofs and can help overcome metal and other design flaws.
Does my business have to close during installation?
No. Installation does not interrupt business processes, with minimal noise, trash and debris.
