Silicone roof coating basics

By KARNAK.  

Learn how a silicone roof coating can protect commercial roofs in harsh climates.

Silicone roof coatings have steadily grown more popular, and for good reason! They are a great solution for protecting commercial roofs from harsh climates due to their excellent performance in the face of ponding water, UV radiation and extreme temperatures compared to other coatings. Studies have shown a roof with a silicone coating application can experience up to 20 years of extension on its lifespan. In addition to these performance benefits, silicone coatings are more energy efficient and can provide environmental benefits (like lowering the Urban Heat Island (UTI) effect.  

But, as with any product, silicone coatings also have their own challenges. While the high solid content (90% to 95%) of these coatings allows for a thick, one-coat application, it does require skilled contractors and specialized equipment as the same viscosity that makes the installation easier to spray can make it more challenging to gauge application thickness. Keep reading to learn from KARNAK experts about silicone roof coatings and how to succeed with them!

Different types of roof coatings

Silicone roof coatings are a popular choice for commercial roofing systems due to their durability and versatility. Several types of coatings are available, each with unique properties and benefits:

• Acrylic coatings: These water-based coatings are cost-effective and provide excellent UV protection. Acrylic coatings are easy to apply and offer good reflectivity, helping to reduce energy costs.
• Silicone coatings: Silicone coatings are highly resistant to ponding water and UV radiation. They maintain flexibility in extreme temperatures and have a high solids content, providing long-lasting protection for commercial roofs.
• Asphalt coatings: These coatings are compatible with most roofing substrates and provide good waterproofing properties. Asphalt coatings are affordable and can be modified with additives to enhance their performance.
• Aluminum roof coatings: Reflective aluminum coatings are effective at reducing heat absorption and cooling costs. They protect the underlying roofing material from UV damage and can extend the life of the roof. However, they are not as reflective as white coatings, such as silicone.

Key advantages of silicone roof coatings

Silicone roof coatings offer superior protection against ponding water, UV rays and extreme weather conditions, thanks to their flexibility and high solids content. These coatings also provide environmental benefits, such as reducing energy consumption and extending the life of the roof.

Resistance to ponding water

Silicone roof coatings offer excellent resistance to ponding water, a common issue that can lead to premature roof failure in harsh climates. Unlike traditional roofing materials, silicone coatings form a seamless, water-resistant membrane that prevents coating delamination, even when water accumulates on the roof surface for extended periods.

This superior resistance to ponding water significantly reduces the risk of leaks, moisture damage and structural deterioration, ensuring long-lasting protection for commercial buildings.

The high solids content of silicone roof coatings contributes to their exceptional resistance to ponding water. With a solids content ranging from 90% to 95%, silicone coatings create a thick, durable layer that maintains its integrity even under the stress of standing water.

Thanks to its high solids content, this product can often be applied in a single coat. This streamlines installation and cuts labor costs for commercial roofers and construction companies, saving the building owner money.

UV protection features

Silicone roof coatings provide exceptional UV protection, shielding roofs from the damaging effects of intense sunlight. These damaging effects include “baking” the oil out of the roof membrane, thereby reducing its flexibility and elongation. The coatings can reflect a significant portion of the sun's UV rays, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling energy costs for buildings.

This UV protection prevents premature degradation of the roof surface, extending the lifespan of the roof and maintaining its structural integrity, even in extreme weather conditions.

For buildings in harsh climates with high levels of UV exposure, silicone roof coatings offer a cost-effective solution for protecting roofs. The coatings' ability to withstand prolonged exposure to intense sunlight without degrading or losing their protective properties makes them a popular choice among commercial roofers, property managers and construction companies.

The flexibility and weather ability of silicone coatings in extreme conditions further enhance their durability in harsh climates.

Flexibility and weatherability in extreme conditions

Silicone roof coatings excel in flexibility and weather ability, making them ideal for regions with harsh climatic conditions like the Gulf Coast or the Midwest. These coatings adapt to the roof substrate as temperatures change, preventing cracking and maintaining a seamless protective barrier.

Silicone's natural resistance to UV radiation, extreme heat and freezing temperatures ensures long-lasting performance. For example, silicone coatings have been shown to maintain their integrity in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 350°F, making them suitable for diverse climates.

This durability is further enhanced by the thicker protective layer, which bridges small cracks and imperfections in the roof surface. The improved waterproofing capabilities have been particularly beneficial in hurricane-prone areas, where silicone coatings have prevented water damage and leaks during severe storms. These real-world examples and statistics demonstrate the effectiveness of silicone roof coatings in extending the life of roof systems in extreme weather conditions.

High solids content and its importance

Silicone roof coatings with a high solids content offer superior protection for roofs in harsh climates. These coatings typically contain 90% or more solids by volume, which means they form a thicker, more durable protective layer on the roof surface than conventional coatings.

The high solids content also allows for better adhesion and coverage, resulting in a more effective and long-lasting barrier against the elements.

The increased durability provided by high solids silicone coatings is particularly important in extreme weather conditions. The thick, resilient layer of protection helps prevent cracking, peeling and degradation over time, even in the face of intense UV radiation, heavy rain and high winds.

By investing in a silicone roof coating with high solids content, property managers and commercial roofers can ensure their roofs remain well-protected and maintain their integrity for years to come.

Environmental benefits of silicone coatings

Silicone roof coatings offer significant environmental benefits by reducing energy consumption and lowering the urban heat island effect. These reflective coatings minimize the amount of heat absorbed by buildings, resulting in lower cooling costs and improved energy efficiency. There are documented government studies that prove a correlation between white roof coatings and a reduction in ozone creation.

By extending the lifespan of roofs and reducing the need for frequent replacements, silicone coatings contribute to reducing the environmental impact of roofing materials.

Challenges of silicone roof coatings

While silicone roof coatings offer many benefits, they also present some challenges. All coatings can attract dirt and debris, which may affect the roof's appearance over time and require regular cleaning to maintain reflectivity.

Spraying silicone coatings can also be challenging, as the material requires specialized equipment and skilled personnel to ensure proper coverage and thickness.

Issues with attracting dirt

One significant challenge with silicone roof coatings (and roof coatings in general) is their tendency to attract dirt and debris. Silicone's sticky nature causes airborne particles, dust and pollutants to adhere to the coating's surface more readily than other roofing materials.

Regular cleaning and maintenance become crucial to preserve the silicone coating's performance. Specialized cleaning solutions and techniques, such as low-pressure power washing or soft-bristled brushes, may be necessary to remove the buildup without damaging the coating. Establishing a consistent cleaning schedule helps maintain the roof's reflectivity and prevents dirt from embedding into the silicone, which can be more difficult to remove over time.

Proper maintenance not only enhances the roof's appearance but also ensures the coating continues to perform its protective functions effectively. However, the additional upkeep requirements should be considered when choosing silicone coatings in areas prone to high levels of airborne pollutants.

Application challenges in spraying

Applying silicone roof coatings through spraying presents unique challenges that require skilled contractors and specialized equipment. Achieving proper coverage, adhesion and consistency during the spraying process is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of the coating.

Contractors must carefully control the spray pattern, pressure and distance to ensure an even application without overspray or gaps.

Experience with spraying silicone roof coatings is critical to avoid clogging issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance of spray guns, hoses and tips are essential to prevent downtime and ensure a smooth application process.

Proper training and experience in spraying silicone coatings are critical for contractors to overcome these challenges and deliver high-quality results

Tips for maintaining silicone coatings

Maintaining silicone roof coatings is crucial for ensuring their longevity and effectiveness in protecting the roof from harsh weather conditions. Here are some tips for maintaining silicone coatings:

• Regular inspections: Schedule regular inspections of the silicone coating to identify any signs of damage, wear and tear or deterioration. This can help catch any issues early on and prevent further damage.
• Cleaning: Clean the roof surface regularly to remove any debris, dirt or accumulation of materials that can affect the performance of the silicone coating. Use a soft-bristled brush or a pressure washer on a low setting to avoid damaging the coating.
• Repairs: If any damage or wear is identified during inspections, make necessary repairs promptly to prevent further deterioration. This may involve patching or reapplying the silicone coating in specific areas. Please note: Once you apply a silicone coating, the repair product must also be silicone-based. No other repair products will adhere properly to the coating.
• Reapplication: Depending on the specific product and environmental conditions, silicone coatings may need to be reapplied every 10-15 years to maintain their effectiveness. Consult with the manufacturer or a professional contractor to determine the appropriate reapplication schedule.
• Professional expertise: Consider hiring professional contractors with experience in silicone roof coatings for proper application and maintenance. They have the knowledge and tools to ensure the coating is applied correctly and can provide guidance on maintaining its performance over time.

By following these tips and investing in regular maintenance, property managers and commercial roofers can extend the life of their silicone roof coatings and protect their buildings from the challenges of harsh climates. However, silicone roof coatings are not without their own set of challenges that should be considered when selecting a roofing solution.

Silicone roof coating conclusion

Silicone roof coatings provide unparalleled protection against harsh climates, enhancing roof durability and longevity. With their resistance to ponding water, UV radiation and extreme temperatures, these coatings offer a practical and efficient solution for property owners and managers.

Have you considered the long-term benefits of investing in silicone roof coatings for your commercial property? Implementing this innovative technology can lead to significant energy savings, reduced maintenance costs and a more sustainable building envelope.

KARNAK's high-quality silicone coatings, backed by their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, can help you achieve these goals. Take the first step towards protecting your roof and maximizing its lifespan in even the toughest weather conditions.

Original article and photo source: KARNAK