There are many different types of commercial roof coating available on the market today. In this article, we will discuss Butyl elastomeric, Polyurethane, and Acrylic. We will also examine the pros and cons of each type of coating. Here are a few tips on how to make the best choice for your roof. Ultimately, you’ll be the one to decide which type is right for your building. Let’s get started!
Butyl elastomeric
A Butyl elastomeric commercial roofing coating is solvent-based and serves as an excellent vapor barrier. Its high elongation and tensile strength makes it ideal for cold storage facilities. Typical applications for this material include flat roof repairs and restoration. The coatings’ excellent water pounding resistance and barrier properties make them a great choice for commercial roof restoration. However, because butyl is not eco-friendly, they are not recommended for use in low-VOC states. However, they do offer excellent tensile strength and excellent weatherability for buildings.
However, the elastomeric commercial roof coatings are not right for every building. Some elastomeric roofing materials have a lower reflective capacity than others. Therefore, a reflective roof can reduce energy costs. Because it doesn’t absorb solar heat, this type of coating will help keep indoor temperatures comfortable, requiring less electricity for cooling. If you are planning to install this kind of coating on your commercial building, you should obtain several free estimates from qualified roofing contractors.
Among the benefits of Butyl elastomeric roofing is its high elongation and tensile strength. Elongation measures the amount of material a roofing membrane can stretch, while tensile strength measures the impact absorbance. Its high elongation and tensile strength mean that it can resist both thermal cycling and standing water, preventing leaks and premature degradation. Because it is solvent-based, butyl elastomeric roofing has the potential to provide superior weather resistance.
Polyurethane
A polyurethane commercial roof coating is a flexible, highly durable covering that is compatible with a variety of roofing materials. Its organic solvent base allows for a wide variety of properties. Its binders are highly resistant to chemicals, and their tensile strength and elongation properties are excellent. They can be formulated to meet the specific requirements of commercial roofing systems. However, some roofing materials are not compatible with polyurethane coatings.
A polyurethane commercial roof coating offers excellent waterproofing capabilities, resistance to mechanical damage, and UV degradation. Commercial buildings, particularly large ones, see high foot traffic, which wears down the roofing membrane. The same is true for moving equipment, which can result in tears and punctures in the membrane, exposing the underlying layers to water damage. Fortunately, polyurethane roof coatings come in two basic types: aromatic and aliphatic. The former is inexpensive, but offers basic mechanical resistance. Despite the low cost, aromatic polyurethane is not UV stable and degrades quickly.
Before a polyurethane foam roof coating is applied, the surface should be dry, clean, and sound. This may involve pressure washing or scraping to ensure a safe surface for the coating. Before applying the coating, the contractor should perform a comprehensive moisture survey to identify areas where trapped moisture could lead to problems with the roof. Also, the contractor must remove any areas of ponding water. Specifically, wet roof insulation and damaged membranes should be removed, and any ponds that have a depth of over one inch should be mechanically diverted.
Acrylic
An acrylic roof coating is an excellent choice for commercial roofing because it is waterborne, one component, and easy to apply. Because the acrylic coating has no two-component mix, it can be applied like house paint. It can also be cleaned with water and airless spray units. It is non-toxic and does not carry volatile organic compound constraints. Unlike most roofing materials, acrylic is a green option and requires no red label.
Unlike other types of commercial roof coatings, silicone-based roof coatings tend to be more expensive than acrylic coatings. They also require fewer coats than acrylics and may be susceptible to curling or pulling away from the edges. Silicone-based roof coatings also lose reflectivity over time and are extremely slippery when wet. Fortunately, they can be compensated by fabric installation. But be sure to contact a commercial roofing company before applying a silicone-based roof coating.
The main advantages of acrylic roof coatings are that they offer good UV protection and reflectivity. The downside of acrylic roof coatings is their tendency to lose mil thickness over time. Because they are exposed to the elements year-round, they need to be properly tested. The Met-A-Gard System is an example of an acrylic roof coating, and it contains high-solids emulsion polymers and biocides to ensure a high-quality product.
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