Introduction
Commercial property owners need to protect their property to ensure the ongoing business operations and to avoid having to spend additional amounts of money on long term repairs and repairs. Applying a commercially available roof coating houston tx may be the best long term option that can help commercial property owners increase the lifespan of their commercial roof; roof coatings act as an additional protector layer on top of the existing roofing system, offering additional protection from exposure to the elements, the sun, moisture, and the various types of common foot traffic experienced by commercial roofs. Instead of the entire roof having to be replaced, many commercial property owners are able to extend the life of their existing roof in by having a professional apply a coating system to the roof. This can keep costs down and also protect the environment by protecting the existing roof system and minimizing the expense of additional cool roof application or replacement. Understanding the science of roof coatings can help commercial property owners make the best preventative investment in their existing roof. When working with professionals experienced in commercial roofing Houston roof coatings can be professionally applied.
What are roof coatings?
Roof Coatings are liquid-applied, protective finishes that are installed as a seamless membrane over the existing commercial roof. When the roof coating is dried, hardened and cured, it forms a resilient, protective barrier over the roof that shields the roofing membrane from UV rays, precipitation, temperature changes and moisture infiltration. Various roof coating materials exist, ranging from acrylic, to silicone, to elastomeric, to polyurethane. Different materials will suited for different roofs and environments, but these coatings are an alternative to replacing the entire roofing surface requiring less time, labor and potential disturbance to business operations than full replacement would or could require,
Benefits of Extending Roof Life
A major benefit of roof coatings is the ability to add additional years to your commercial roof. Over the years, daily exposure to wind, rain and especially the sun’s UV rays take their toll on the commercial roofing surface. The repeated aging process creates cracks, leaks, and premature surface degradation. A quality applied coating can many times protect the roof from the elements and slow the aging process, delaying costly roof replacements and making the most of your roofing investment.
Improving Energy Efficiency
In the summer, these buildings already gain an enormous amount of heat through the roof. Reflecting heat using reflective roof coating can help reduce that significantly. The amount of heat reflected by the coating means that the building‘s air conditioning system does not have to work as hard reducing monthly utility bills. This can be better for business as well as improving the work environment for the staff and customers.
Preventing Water Intrusion
Moisture is another primary factor in damaging any commercial roof. Small cracks in the roof surface, worn-out seams, and aging roofing systems permit moisture to enter the roofing system resulting in leaks, mold growth, deterioration of insulation and damage to the supporting structure. Putting a roof coating over the roof allows many space holes to be filled in providing a continuous waterproof barrier which greatly reduces the chances of water intrusion. It is important that any major structural damage be repaired prior to the application of a roof coating. However, a properly coated roof provides additional defense against moisture intrusion.
Reducing Maintenance Costs
A regularly scheduled roof maintenance program will be necessary for all commercial buildings, however roof coatings can significantly lower the frequency and severity of the repairs needed. Coatings provide a protective layer that shields roofing materials from ultraviolet rays and the elements, thus reducing surface degradation and delaying the onset of typical roof failure problems. Many companies find their emergency repairs and maintenance costs drop off after purchasing a coating system installed by a qualified applicator.
Supporting Sustainable Building Practices
In the 21st Century, more and more corporations are taking steps toward sustainable building practices. Roof coatings enhance sustainability by actually increasing the life of weathered roofs. They also cut down on construction waste by avoiding recycling and the tear off of worn, aged roofs. Reflective coatings save energy by making the building more efficient and lowering greenhouse gases caused by electric power generation. The decision of applying roof coatings simply makes good operational sense.
Choosing the Right Roof Coating
However, not all roof coatings are right for every commercial roof. The right roof coating is designed for the type of roof material, location and weather pattern, type of building, drainage and the condition of the existing roof. Professional commercial roofing companies will design a roof coating solution based on these specifics. Cleaning the roof and repairing any damaged areas beforehand are also keys in ensuring adhesion and performance of the roof coating.
Importance of Professional Installation
Proper roof coating installation by an insured, professional roofing contractor is essential to gaining all of the performance benefits associated with the roof coating system. A trained roofing contractor will evaluate the roof surface, follow manufacturer installation recommendations, prepare the membrane correctly, and achieve an even distribution of the coating.1 A substandard roof coating installation will impact durability, waterproofing ability, and longevity of the coating system.2
Conclusion
Roof coatings provide a viable and affordable alternative for business owners interested in preserving their commercial property, but not ready to financially commit to an entire roof replacement. They help build owners extend roof lifespan and energy efficiency, while protecting the building from water intrusion, lowering operational costs and promoting eco-friendly property ownership. To optimize the longevity of its benefits, it is important to select the appropriate coating system and professional roofing contractor specializing in commercial roofing Houston. Doing so allows business owners the opportunity to increase the value of their roofing system, reduce operating expenses and safely meet the needs of their building.