Flat Roofing Installation, Repair, and Replacement

Most flat roof surfaces can be effectively restored and the useful life extended by coating them. The type of existing roof surface dictates what surface preparation is necessary for repair, as well as how the coating can be applied following surface preparation.

Surface preparation generally consists of removing dirt, dust and loose debris. If the existing roof system is currently leaking, leak areas are identified and re-sealed prior to cleaning a roof. This may involve cutting out and removing damaged portions, and replacing those areas with new material, then sealing the joints of the new material with the existing roofing. After leak areas are repaired or replaced, roof surfaces are cleaned by use of blowers and brooms and/or pressure washers. On rare occasion a chemical wash might be needed to remove staining and/or other foreign accumulations on the roof. After the surface is dry, a primer may be applied. The primer bonds to the existing roof system and provides a surface to which the coating can adhere. Coatings are applied over the primer and given time to cure. Depending on the length of warranty desired, more than one layer of coating may be applied.

If a roof is not properly prepared for coating application, the coating may peel and blister because it doesn’t adhere properly to the roof surfaces. If this occurs in spots, those spots may be re-done and touched up to blend with the rest of the roof. Occasionally, especially in hot weather, the surface of coatings will cure and set too quickly, trapping moisture inside. In this case, blistering is common and may be extensive.

The most common coatings applied to flat roofs are elastomeric, meaning they are manufactured in a way that ensures the coating can stretch and contract without cracking with roof movement as the roof heats and cools. Elastomeric coatings are liquid-applied, fully adhered protective membranes. They may be applied to new construction, over existing roof systems and as part of a continuing maintenance program. Both primers and finish coats can be spray-applied to ensure consistent appearance and a durable finish. In some cases back-rolling aids in ensuring proper adhesion.

Some of the benefits of applying elastomeric coatings over an existing roof system are:

• Cost savings versus replacing the existing roof
• Minimal or no waste to dispose of
• Manufacturer’s warranty
• Applicator’s warranty
• Reduced energy usage in cases where light-colored coatings are applied
• Repair roof leaks
• Cost-efficient maintenance
• Restore and extend the life of the existing roof
• Long-term solution

Elastomeric coatings are so versatile, with proper surface preparation they can applied to virtually any clean, dry and sound roof system, including built-up, modified bitumen, single-ply cap sheet, metal, polyurethane foam, asphalt and even concrete. They can also be applied over common commercial roof systems, such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

Our products work so well we can provide a leak-proof warranty to you. Elastomeric coatings cost less per square foot than conventional roof materials, saving you money. Quick preparation and installation time results in minimal disruption to your daily routine. Call us for more information.

Significant factors to consider in roof material selection:

• Weight
• Durability
• Initial cost
• Extended cost
• Aesthetics
• Energy efficiency