Commercial building owners and facility managers are constantly seeking cost-effective solutions to enhance building performance and extend roof lifespans. Roof coating systems have emerged as a powerful strategy to achieve these goals while delivering substantial energy savings and environmental benefits.
Schrock Roofing is founded on the business principles of value and integrity. We believe giving you the best value with the highest integrity will encourage you to be our long-term commercial roofing partner. We achieve value by helping you get the most from your commercial roof. Call 406-961-2990 today to schedule your Great Falls, MT consultation.
What Are Roof Coatings?
Roof coatings are specially formulated liquid compounds applied to existing commercial roofing systems. These high-performance membranes create a seamless, waterproof barrier that protects against UV radiation, water intrusion, and thermal cycling. Modern coating systems are compatible with most commercial roofing substrates, including metal, modified bitumen, single-ply membranes, and built-up roofing.
Roof Coating Improves Performance
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Reflective roof coatings, particularly “cool roof” solutions, significantly reduce building cooling costs by reflecting up to 85% of solar radiation. This reflectivity decreases roof surface temperatures by 50-60°F compared to traditional dark roofing, reducing heat transfer to the building interior. Commercial properties in warm climates often report 15-30% reductions in cooling energy consumption after applying reflective roof coatings.
Extended Roof Lifespan
Weather exposure, UV degradation, and thermal cycling accelerate roof deterioration. Quality roof coatings create a protective barrier that minimizes these damaging effects, potentially extending roof service life by 10-15 years. This lifecycle extension translates to significant capital expenditure savings by delaying costly roof replacements.
Reduced Maintenance Requirements
Properly applied roof coatings seal minor leaks, prevent ponding water issues, and provide resistance against biological growth. The seamless membrane simplifies maintenance and reduces the frequency of repairs, lowering long-term operational expenses.
Environmental Benefits
Commercial roof coating installation produces minimal waste compared to roof tear-offs and replacements. Many modern coating products contain low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving indoor air quality and worker safety. Additionally, reduced energy consumption decreases carbon emissions associated with building operations.
Selecting the Right Coating System
Several factors influence coating selection for commercial buildings:
- Climate conditions: Properties in high-UV regions benefit from acrylic or silicone coatings with superior UV resistance
- Existing roof substrate: Different substrates require specific primer systems and coating types
- Performance requirements: Consider waterproofing needs, chemical resistance, and foot traffic requirements
- Budget constraints: Balance initial installation costs against long-term performance benefits
Application Process and Considerations
Professional application ensures optimal performance. The process typically includes:
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- Comprehensive roof inspection and repairs of existing defects
- Thorough cleaning of the substrate
- Application of appropriate primers
- Installation of the coating system with proper thickness and coverage
- Quality control inspection and documentation
On-Site Inspections
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Return on Investment
Commercial building owners typically recoup their roof coating investment through energy savings, extended roof lifespan, and reduced maintenance costs. Many projects achieve payback periods of 3-5 years, with continued savings throughout the coating service life.
Roof Coating Experts
Roof coating systems represent a strategic investment for commercial property owners looking to enhance building performance while managing operational costs. By understanding the benefits and selecting the appropriate system, Great Falls, MT building owners and facility managers can significantly improve their building’s efficiency, sustainability, and long-term value.
To learn more ways roof coating improves performance and your bottom line, call 406-961-2990 and speak with one of our experts.
FAQ
How long do commercial roof coatings typically last?
Quality roof coatings generally last 10-20 years, depending on the product type, application quality, local climate, and maintenance practices. Silicone coatings typically offer the longest service life in most environments.
Can roof coatings be applied in all weather conditions?
No. Most coating systems require application during dry conditions with temperatures between 50-90°F. Humidity levels and dew point must also be within manufacturer specifications to ensure proper curing and adhesion.
Are roof coatings eligible for energy efficiency incentives?
Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates or tax incentives for energy-efficient roof coatings. ENERGY STAR® certified products and cool roof systems often qualify for these financial incentives, improving project ROI.
Can a roof coating be applied over an existing coating?
In many cases, yes. However, compatibility between the existing and new coating must be verified. Proper surface preparation, including adhesion testing, is essential to ensure long-term performance when coating over existing membranes.
How disruptive is the coating installation process?
Roof coating installation is significantly less disruptive than roof replacement. Most businesses can continue normal operations during application, though temporary access restrictions to the roof area should be expected. Some coating types may have odors that require ventilation planning.