Maintaining a structurally sound and leak-free roof is a top priority for any building manager owner. One of the most effective (and cost efficient) ways is by applying waterproofing roof coatings. These coatings not only enhance the longevity of your roof but also provide a crucial barrier against the damaging effects of moisture infiltration. Let’s jump into the science behind waterproofing roof coatings and how they prevent leaks and moisture damage.
The Role of Waterproofing Roof Coatings
Roof coatings are engineered to provide a protective layer that shields your roof from environmental stressors, including rain, snow, hail, and UV radiation which are all common issues in the Midwest.
Waterproofing roof coatings, in particular, are designed to create an impermeable barrier that prevents water from seeping into the underlying layers of your roof. By doing so, these coatings effectively shield your building’s interior from potential water damage, mold growth, and deterioration.
The Science of Waterproofing
The science behind waterproofing roof coatings lies in their composition and application process. These coatings are formulated with specialized materials that exhibit hydrophobic properties, meaning they repel water. The primary components of waterproofing roof coatings include:
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Polymer Binders: Waterproofing coatings are typically made with polymer binders, such as acrylics or silicones. These binders form a flexible, resilient membrane on the roof’s surface that can expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking. Depending on the product used for your roof, some can expand up to 1200%.
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Fillers and Reinforcements: To enhance the coating’s durability and waterproofing capabilities, fillers and reinforcements are added to the formulation. These materials improve the coating’s resistance to physical damage and help it adhere to the roof substrate more effectively.
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Water-Repellent Additives: The addition of water-repellent additives enhances the hydrophobic nature of the coating. These additives minimize the surface tension of water droplets, causing them to bead up and roll off the roof rather than absorb it.
The Application Process
Applying waterproofing roof coatings involves several crucial steps that contribute to their effectiveness:
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Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is essential to ensure optimal adhesion. The roof surface must be cleaned, free of debris, repaired as needed, and dried up after the cleaning.
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Primer Application: In some instance, we add a primer to the roof before the coating to improve adhesion. The primer creates a bond between the roof substrate and the waterproofing coating.
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Coating Application: The waterproofing coating is applied evenly over the entire roof surface. The thickness of the coating can impact its performance and we actively measure the thickness as we spray to ensure proper installation.
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Curing and Drying: The coating needs time to cure and dry, allowing the polymer binders to form a seamless, water-resistant membrane. Our team is constantly watching the weather to ensure that conditions are optimal for install and drying.
Preventing Leaks and Moisture Damage
Once the waterproofing roof coating is properly applied and cured, it acts as a first line of defense against water infiltration. Rainwater beads up and runs off the roof surface, unable to penetrate the protective barrier.
In addition to its functional benefits, a well-applied waterproofing roof coating can extend the life of your roof by protecting it from the deteriorating effects of water exposure and UV radiation.
Summary
Choosing waterproofing roof coatings is a great option that can save you significant costs in the long run. By understanding the science behind these coatings and their role in preventing leaks and moisture damage, you’re better equipped to make informed decisions about protecting your commercial building’s most vital asset – its roof.
If you’re considering waterproofing roof coatings for your building, reach out to Armour at (402) 289-7869 and we can let you know which option is best for your roof!
