Roof coatings play a significant role in preserving roofs, preventing repairs, and keeping buildings as energy-efficient as possible. When a client is in need of a roof coating, there are a number of factors to take into account. One of the most important of these is adhesion. After all, if a roof coating doesn’t have strong adhesive power, then it will not be as effective as it needs to be. Here is what you need to know about adhesion and roof coatings.
What is adhesion?
Adhesion simply means how well two materials, or two surfaces, stick to one another. In this case, adhesion means the tendency of a roof coating to stick to the roof’s surface. If the coating peels away, then it means that adhesion has failed to work as intended.
Why is adhesion so important?
The primary purpose of a roof coating is to extend the natural life of the roof. Thus, the coating should last as long as possible. If a coating does not adhere to the surface of the roof properly, then it’s going to require replacement. Without firm adhesion, none of the roof coating’s intended functions—including making the roof more energy-efficient—will work. Thus, strong adhesion helps to protect the client’s investment in the roof coating.
Do all roof coatings adhere properly to all roofs?
Not every roof coating is suitable for every type of roof. If a coating isn’t appropriate for a particular roof, then the client isn’t likely to be satisfied with its performance. Thus, matching the right coating with the right roof is essential if you want to ensure that a project is successful.
What does it take for a roof coating to adhere properly?
There are a number of factors that must be in place for a roof coating to adhere to a surface properly. First, the coating needs to be compatible with the roofing material. For example, if the roof’s surface is made of asphalt, metal, or concrete, then you’ll need to select a coating that has been specially designed to work with that surface. If you choose the wrong type of coating, then it won’t work as well.
Second, you need to consider the texture of the roof. If the texture is not completely smooth, then it can help the coating adhere. If it is too rough, however, then it can interfere with the process of adhesion. You should be careful to remove or repair any loose shingles, for example, before you apply the coating. You should also pressure-wash the roof’s surface to ensure that dirt and debris do not weaken the coating’s adhesive power.
Finally, the coating should be applied properly. If this doesn’t happen—for instance, if the coating is applied during rainy weather, or if it isn’t given time to cure—then the coating will not provide good performance. That’s why roof coatings should always be applied by an experienced roofing professional.