Commercial Roof Coating In Florida

Author: Lee Polevoi | January 9, 2025

Any commercial roof coating project taking place in Florida must address the challenges of the Sunshine State's unique weather patterns. Weather-resistant roof coatings are essential to protect commercial structures from heavy rains, UV exposure, excessive heat, humidity and moisture, and the threat of hurricanes and high winds.

If a building owner is looking for alternatives to a costly roof replacement, it is likely that they will want to know more about roof coatings to prolong the life of the roof. That's why it's so important that you serve as a knowledgeable resource for business owners and others looking for the right weather-resistant solution to damage caused by Florida's unruly climate conditions.

Coatings Benefit Commercial Customers

The specialized compounds employed by roofing contractors offer protection from damage to seams, joints and other vulnerable parts of the roof incurred by harsh weather.

Creating a waterproof barrier against leaks and other forms of water penetration can extend the life of a roof (and the commercial structure overall), while also helping maintain energy efficiency (reduced UV radiation, cool indoor temperatures, etc.).

On top of that, there are obvious cost savings to customers who opt for a commercial roof coating, rather than a large-scale re-roofing project.

Types of Commercial Roof Coatings

Contractors can choose from several types of elastomeric roof coatings for their customers' needs. The choice depends on a particular structure's susceptibility to challenging weather conditions and how best to extend the life of a commercial roof.

Acrylic Coatings

This water-based coating is often selected based on its proven protection against UV rays and ease of application for both metal roofing and single-ply systems. It has been shown to decrease a structure's interior temperature by as much as 20 degrees in areas of excess heat and direct sunlight.

Acrylic coatings are durable and flexible, allowing for expansion and contraction without any corresponding cracks in roofing materials. Its capacity for sealing small gaps and thwarting moisture infiltration makes it a popular choice among roofing contractors and their commercial building customers.

At the same time, acrylic coatings can experience weather decay over time, and are also vulnerable to ponding water. For this reason, this coating is generally considered best for flat roofs or sloped metal roofs.

Silicone Coatings

This commercial coating is regarded as a highly effective resource for waterproofing commercial structures — obviously a top concern among business owners in Florida's rain-intensive environment. It's also known for its demonstrated protection against high humidity, as well as its reflective qualities, its resilience and its elasticity under extreme weather conditions.

In some cases, silicone coatings draw dirt that, if left untended, can reduce UV reflectiveness. The surface coating can sometimes become slick when wet, posing a risk to any potential foot traffic on the roof.

Polyurethane Coatings

Polyurethane roof coatings are effective for a variety of roofing membranes. Known for their sturdiness and resilience, they offer a defense against mildew and any exposure to harsh chemicals. Perhaps equally important, a polyurethane coating is resistant to harsh environmental elements and foot traffic.

Asphalt Rubber Membrane System

This fluid-applied commercial roof coating boasts the flexibility of rubber combined with the waterproofing qualities of emulsified asphalt. The coating provides a tough, rubbery membrane that holds up well against extreme weather conditions.

Your initial inspection of a customer's commercial roof will help determine the best selection of coatings.

Ensure Proper Adhesion

Before you begin an application, you need to make sure the coating materials you're using will properly adhere to the underlying substrate. You'll want to:

• Thoroughly clean the roof surface with a pressure washer or broom.
• Per the manufacturer's guidelines, mix or shake the coating to guarantee effective consistency and texture.
• Using the appropriate tool, apply the coating to any areas where water infiltration is a threat — such as joints or seams.
• Ensure the application is spread evenly wherever coating is deemed necessary for the integrity of the roof.

Throughout the process, observe basic precautions. Use gloves, safety glasses and equipment that allows sufficient ventilation to complete the task.

What Roofers Should Know

It's critical for roofing contractors to be aware of Florida's stringent building codes (particularly concerning roofing work). Roofers should comply with these codes and explain how they apply specifically to the customer's commercial structure. This will help prolong the life of the roof and shield customers against unwanted state fines.

Get to know people in your local or regional building inspection office to remain up to date on building codes and to get a heads-up when a hurricane or heavy thunderstorm is imminent. This type of relationship offers a competitive edge worth exploring and benefits your customers as well.