Elongate the lifespan of a roof with this product

By Progressive Materials.

Learn how applying SL-850 can eliminate ponding water and make a roof last longer!

Ponding water on low-slope roofs can cause a myriad of issues and damages. Well-known issues include leaks and mold growth that destabilize the roof system’s structure. A lesser known but still large issue is ponding water magnifying the sun’s UV rays. This can damage the coating and eventually the substrate, lowering the durability, longevity and overall performance of the roof. This article looks at that issue and how Progressive Materials’ SL-850 Ponding Water Eliminator can help protect low-slope roofing.

Ponding water threats

Some puddles here and there after the rain stops are normal. However, water that sits on the roof for extended periods of time can cause premature aging.

The sun’s UV rays get even stronger as they travel through the water and create trouble areas in those areas. Ponding water also encourages mildew growth, which can seep through the substrate and cause serious damage.

What Is SL-850

SL-850 combats the wear and tear of ponding water by eliminating the ponding areas altogether. This tough, durable material — a thick, concrete-like 100% silicone — can be used to fill low areas of a roof surface.

It is designed to be used in conjunction with the PM Silicone Roof Restoration system and can be applied over virtually any roof substrate.

Application

This granular product is not designed to be sprayed or rolled like our typical silicone. Instead, simply pour SL-850 onto the ponding area and use a putty knife or trowel to smooth and level to the desired thickness. One of the many benefits of SL-850 is that it can be applied up to 1-inch thick, making almost any ponding area a non-issue.

To see the SL-850 in action you can watch an installation video. After allowing SL-850 to cure, you can coat the roof with PM’s high or standard solids silicone. That will provide a ponding-free, watertight and UV-resistant roof.

It is worth noting that PM’s silicone roof coatings will not break down under ponding water like some other roof substrates. However, ponding water should be eliminated whenever possible as its presence, even on silicone, can lead to issues down the road.

Original article and photo source: Progressive Materials