WHAT TYPES OF ELASTOMERIC ROOF COATINGS ARE AVAILABLE?
Now that we’ve defined elastomeric roof coatings and show that the term is often used incorrectly in the roofing industry, let’s look at various types of elastomeric coatings. Which type of elastomeric roof coating is the best? Which should you choose for your roof? Which is the best option for your budget? The answer to each of these questions varies depending on the situation. There is no definitive answer to use across the board. So, let’s look at various elastomeric roof coatings, compare their costs and benefits, and let you be the judge. There are three primary types of elastomeric roof coatings. These three coatings are the most prominent types in the roofing industry. There are others (any coatings that remain elastic), but these are the most common.
Acrylic Elastomeric Roof Coatings
Acrylic roof coatings often have a lifespan hovering around 10 years. They are typically bright white and provide good reflectivity. They also offer a low per-gallon price, the lowest of all three systems in this post. Some negative attributes of acrylic roof coatings are that they usually require a primer, often require fabric reinforcement, and nearly always require two coats. When you consider these additional steps and materials, acrylics can often become more expensive than the other two types discussed. Per gallon they may be cheaper, but on a project basis the price can balloon quickly.
Silicone Roof Coatings
Often compared to acrylic coatings due to their similar appearance are silicone coatings. They are more expensive per gallon, but for that extra price tag you receive better reflectivity, better adhesion, no primer required, only one coat, and a 20 year lifespan. Silicone coatings often start out more expensive per-gallon, but as a whole the project is less expensive. Silicone roof coatings are also great for withstanding ponding water.
The primary weaknesses of silicone roof coatings are that they hold onto dirt and appear dirty, and they are also prone to tearing if a sharp object is dropped. However, there aren’t many roof coatings that can stand up to sharp objects being dropped on them.
Urethane Roof Coatings
Finally, urethane roof coatings are another common elastomeric roofing system. These are similar in price to silicone, sometimes higher or lower depending on the specific formulation. Urethane coatings are often chosen because they are more durable than both silicone and acrylic roof coatings. Urethane coatings don’t offer quite as effective reflectivity as silicone or acrylic coatings. Urethane coatings do offer good protection from ponding water and stay cleaner than silicone or acrylic coatings as they resist dirt.
Conclusion
There are many types of elastomeric roof coatings. Give us a call today to learn more about various elastomeric roof coatings and what they can do for you and your building.