Cost effective, energy efficient and sustainable!

By Simply Affordable Roofing. 

Learn about a sustainable roofing solution that is revolutionizing the industry.  

Imagine a solution that not only shields your roof from the relentless forces of nature but also slashes your energy bills and extends your roof’s lifespan without the hassle and expense of traditional methods. Dive into our exploration of roof coatings with us at Simply Affordable Roofing to discover why this approach is revolutionizing commercial roofing, particularly in the weather-challenging Pacific Northwest. From the cost benefits to sustainability perks, we uncover everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your next roofing project. 

Understanding roof coating 

The roof coating process involves applying a protective layer over the existing roof surface, acting as a shield against environmental elements. This preventative measure not only prevents water damage but also reduces heat absorption, ultimately extending the roof's lifespan. The process includes thorough cleaning and preparation of the roof surface before the coating application. 

Traditional vs. coating products 

Traditionally, roofs undergo tear-off or recover projects, involving the removal of existing roofing materials and replacement with new ones or adding another layer of a traditional membrane roof system. However, these methods are time-consuming, disruptive and expensive. Commercial roof coatings provide a more efficient and sustainable solution. Commonly used roof coating products include acrylic, silicone and elastomeric coatings. Acrylic coatings boast durability and UV resistance, while silicone coatings excel in waterproofing. In the Pacific Northwest, we typically avoid acrylic-based products unless specific conditions are met, favoring silicone for its superiority in handling ponding water on flat roofs. Elastomeric coatings offer flexibility for roofs experiencing frequent temperature fluctuations. Additionally, hybrid systems incorporating both urethane and silicone in multiple layers have proven effective. 

Advantages of roof coating over traditional tear-off 

1. Cost-Effective: Roof coatings are generally more affordable than full tear-off and replacement projects. The materials are often less expensive, and the application process requires less labor. 

2. Energy Efficiency: Many roof coatings are reflective, reducing heat absorption and lowering energy costs for cooling buildings. This is particularly beneficial in the warmer months of the Pacific Northwest. 

3. Minimal Disruption: Roof coating projects are less disruptive compared to tear-off projects. There's no need to remove the existing roof, minimizing the impact on daily operations within the building. 

4. Sustainability: Roof coatings contribute to sustainability efforts by extending the life of the existing roof, reducing waste associated with tear-off projects. This aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendly building practices. 

Recommendations for the Pacific Northwest 

Given the unique climate of the Pacific Northwest, specific considerations should be taken into account when selecting roof coating products. High precipitation levels make waterproofing crucial, making silicone coatings, known for their excellent water resistance, a recommended choice. 

Choosing reflective coatings can help mitigate the effects of occasional intense sunlight, contributing to a more energy-efficient building. Regular inspections and maintenance are advisable to address issues promptly in the moisture-rich environment. Moreover, considering the Northwest's more heating days than cooling days, opting for a darker color or grey may provide the most benefit over time for the specific climate in this area. 

In conclusion 

Commercial roof coating is emerging as a superior alternative to traditional tear-off projects, offering cost savings, energy efficiency and sustainability. When considering roof coating in the Pacific Northwest, selecting the right products tailored to the region's climate is essential for optimal performance and longevity. 

Original article source: Simply Affordable Roofing