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Roof Coating – Pros and Cons

Practical roofing guidance for northern Utah homeowners.

Planning / Utah Roofing Company

Roof Coating – Overview

A roof coating is a system-specific treatment for compatible assemblies, not a universal insulating layer. Compare the existing roof condition, preparation, product requirements, maintenance and exclusions before choosing it.

Pros of Roof Coatings

Some of the benefits of roof coating include:

Increased Lifespan of Roof

A compatible coating may be one option for a sound, suitable roof after appropriate preparation. It does not repair damaged decking, trapped moisture or a drainage-design problem. Assess the assembly before assuming a coating will extend its useful service.

Reflectance versus insulation

Reflectance and insulation are different properties. A compatible reflective coating may affect surface heat, but it does not supply the roof's required insulation or guarantee lower bills.

Waterproofing Protection

In the case of a low-slope roof, water may collect in a specific area of the roof causing water damage to the roof and your home’s interior. With roof coating, you get better protection against water damage as it increases your roof’s overall waterproofing. Additionally, if your roof’s material is already prone to water damage, having a roof coating can increase your roof’s lifespan.

Better Aesthetic Appeal

Apart from added protection, a roof coating can also improve the visual appeal of your property. With an additional layer of coating on your roof’s surface, the aesthetics of any older roof can significantly improve. Moreover, when your roof begins to fade or appear older, a roof coating is one of the potential ways to improve your roof’s appearance without replacing it.

Cons of Roof Coatings

All the benefits of roof coating come with a few costs. Some of the cons of roof coating are:

Higher Cost

When you are installing a new roof, getting an extra roof coating can increase the cost. Some homeowners may avoid roof coating simply to avoid the additional expense. Note that silicon and polyurethane-based roof coating are more expensive than other types of roof coating. If the higher cost of roof coating is deterring you from getting a roof coating, you can choose the less costly alternatives.

Roof Coatings May be Flammable

Certain types of roof coatings may be flammable due to the chemicals they contain. It is, therefore, essential to be aware of this potential hazard.

Roof Coating for Your Roof

If you are considering roof coating, you must know the pros and cons of your choice. Often, roof coating by inexperienced individuals can damage your roof and come at an expense most homeowners won’t like.

Ask a contractor with relevant system experience to explain compatibility, moisture findings, preparation and warranty limits. This website does not establish a coating service or an installation credential. Utah Roofing’s

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