Flat roofs are great for homes and commercial buildings due to their modern look and their protective qualities. A roof coating for a flat roof can ensure your flat roof is protected against harmful UV rays and high temperatures. They can also improve energy efficiency, which makes them cost-effective in the long term. Picking the right roof coating for your flat roof can be stressful, but we’re here to help. Below, we explore what roof coatings are, the different kinds of coatings, and why professional installation is the way to go.
Why Use a Roof Coating on Flat Roofs?
Flat roofs are most common in commercial buildings because they are cost-effective, easier to maintain, and match the aesthetics of the architecture. Also, flat roofs are more easily accessible for HVAC units and other rooftop equipment. The downside of a flat roof is that they don’t naturally shed water, making them more susceptible to leaks and damage over time.
A high-quality roof coating shields a flat roof, offering protection from these issues. It can reflect harmful UV rays, provide a waterproof barrier, and even improve your building’s energy efficiency. In other words, roof coatings are a cost-effective way to extend the life of your flat roof while keeping maintenance costs in check.
Key Factors To Consider When Choosing a Roof Coating
Picking a roof coating is no easy thing, but here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Leak Free Warranties: Does the coating provide a 10-20 year NDL leak-free warranty?
- Cost: Is the initial investment worth the long-term savings?
- Energy Efficiency: Does the coating reflect sunlight and keep your building cooler?
- Compatibility: Does the coating work with your roof’s material, such as EPDM, TPO, or modified bitumen?
Top Roof Coatings for Flat Roofing
While any roof coating is better than nothing, they’re not all the same. Some are more cost-efficient, while others offer advanced protection. At Denver Roof Coatings, we offer eight types of commercial roof coatings, but the ones below are the most popular.
Silicone Roof Coatings
Silicone roof coatings are ideal for roofs with frequent water pooling because they’re extremely water resistant. This makes silicone roof coatings best for locales where rain or snow are common, such as Denver. In addition, silicone roof coatings are excellent at reflecting UV rays, reducing energy costs that can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Products like Gaco S42, one of our favorite coatings, also come with 10-20 year leak free warranties, making it a no brainer on your budget!
Acrylic Roof Coatings
Acrylic roof coatings are known for being affordable and energy efficient. They reflect sunlight well, keeping your building cooler in the summer. However, acrylic roof coatings are not ideal for areas that experience heavy rainfall or snowfall since pooling can wear the coating down faster.
Polyurethane Roof Coatings
Polyurethane coatings are built tough. Their ability to resist impacts makes them ideal for roofs with heavy foot traffic or debris. While the enhanced durability makes these coatings more expensive than others, the investment is worth it if durability is a priority.
Comparing Roof Coatings: Which Is Best for Denver?
Denver is a paradise come spring and summer, but it’s not without its bad days. We’re talking snowstorms, occasional hailstorms, and hot, sunny days — the sheer number of sunny days in Denver is a beating on roofs. With this type of climate, durability and UV resistance are most important when choosing a roof coating.
Coating Type | Durability | Cost | Energy Efficiency | Best For |
Silicone | High | $$$ | Excellent | Water pooling, UV protection |
Acrylic | Medium | $ | Very good | Budget-friendly, sunny areas |
Polyurethane | Very high | $$$$ | Good | High-traffic, impact zones |
How To Choose the Best Roof Coating for Your Flat Roof
To find the right roof coating, it’s best to contact professional roof coating professionals near you. They’ll be able to give you in-depth information and help you choose the roof coating that works best for your roof and your budget.
However, if you prefer to do it yourself, start by assessing your roof’s current condition. Evaluate everything, including frequency of water pooling, level of foot traffic, weather, and how much you’re spending on your energy bill — the type of roof you have can also inform the types of roof coatings available. For Denver residents looking for the best roof coating solution, we recommend a roof coating that’s both durable and offers excellent UV ray protection.
Professional Application vs. DIY: What’s the Best Option?
While some roof coatings are DIY-friendly, many require professional expertise for proper application. A professional installer ensures the coating is applied evenly and effectively, avoiding common issues like bubbling or peeling. Plus, they’ll have the experience to choose the best coating for your roof’s material and condition.
Denver Roof Coatings specializes in flat roof solutions, offering professional advice and installation services to ensure your roof stays protected year-round. We’re one of the best roof coating companies in the Denver metro area, but don’t just take our word for it — this is what our customers have to say.
Find the Right Roof Coating for Your Flat Roof
Choosing the best roof coating for your flat roof can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re ready to extend the life of your flat roof and improve its performance, Denver Roof Coatings is here to help. Contact us today to get a free inspection and quote.