Commercial and residential roofing systems are designed to withstand the elements, but they need inspections and maintenance to last long. If your roof is getting on in years, you can also apply a roof coating to give it additional protection.
Not everyone can apply a roof coating, though. You need a professional to make it work and avoid issues. Here are some of the critical errors that should be avoided when applying a roof coating.
Coating Too Thinly or Too Thickly
When applying a roof coating, take into account the evaporation of some of the water or solvent in the mixture as the coating application dries. If you apply a coat that’s too thin, it will not have the necessary strength to last long and perform reliably. Adding more wet mils (coating thickness) during application will compensate for the evaporation.
Applying a coating that’s too thick, on the other hand, is likely to cause blisters, wrinkles or bubbles in the film. This is because the top surface dries faster than the bottom layer, trapping chemicals and water. When the trapped liquid evaporates, it forces the formation of bubbles and other deformations.
Not Mixing Properly
Consistency throughout the coating film is very important. Some heavier ingredients may sink to the bottom of the container, so consistent stirring is necessary. However, mixing the coating too forcefully can lead to bubble formation, which will eventually lead to roofing problems. To avoid frequent roof repair, it’s crucial to maintain the right mixing method.
Not Taking the Weather Into Account
Even heavy dew or light rain can wash off some of the coating if it doesn’t dry properly. Before applying a roof coating, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast. If the sky isn’t clear and sunny, applying your roof coating is risky, as its effectiveness will be compromised if there is precipitation before it’s completely dry.
Not Taking Temperatures Into Account
Note that roof coating mixture viscosity is affected by temperature. It is more viscous and thicker when the weather is cold, and more fluid and thinner when it’s hot. When it’s cold, it takes longer for the coating to dry, which also exposes it to the risk of precipitation. Before applying a roof coating, check the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding required temperatures and weather conditions.
Avoid taking risks when your roof needs a coating. Get in touch with Patriot Roofing LLC. We also offer professional gutter installation. Call us today at (405) 217-0473 or fill out this form. We work with homeowners and business owners in Edmond, OK.