Roof coatings on commercial buildings in Florida have become increasingly popular. Coating the surface of a roof has many benefits, including extending the life of a commercial building and reducing energy costs. Additionally, if you choose the right roof coating, you can protect your commercial building from the harsh sun, heavy rain, and strong winds that Florida’s businesses experience.
However, with so many available options, it can be challenging to determine if commercial building roof coatings are worth the investment.
This article explores the benefits of roof coatings for commercial buildings in Florida. You will learn the different types of coatings available and if they are a cost-effective investment.
The Benefits of Roof Coatings for Commercial Buildings in Florida
Maintaining the roof of a commercial building in Florida is a challenging task. Roofs in the Sunshine State must withstand extreme weather conditions — constant sunlight, high humidity, storms, and occasional heavy rainfall. Over time, the roof may suffer damage, leading to leaks, higher energy bills, and other problems.
Applying roof coatings can help solve many issues Florida property owners must face.
Let’s look at five reasons why covering the roof of a commercial property with a membrane can be a wise investment.
1. Enhanced waterproofing
Commercial roof coatings provide an additional layer of protection against the elements. It prevents rain, hail, and wind from causing damage that can lead to water leaks. Therefore, you can reduce the risk of moisture-related damage to your property’s structure and contents.
2. Minimize UV radiation damage
Roof coatings on commercial buildings in Florida can extend the life of the roof. By protecting the roof from the damaging effects of UV radiation, heat, and weathering, roof coatings help prevent premature aging, cracking, and deterioration.
3. Increased energy efficiency
Cool-roof technology and reflective roof coatings can significantly reduce energy costs. Studies show that advances in smart-roof coatings can significantly reduce the heat absorbed by a building. By reflecting sunlight, coatings help keep the interior temperature more stable. This results in reducing the strain on HVAC systems and improving energy efficiency.
4. Save money with lower maintenance costs
Applying a roof coating can minimize the need for frequent roof repairs. Coatings create a seamless, durable surface that is easier to clean and maintain. Additionally, the best roof coatings for commercial buildings reduce the accumulation of dirt, debris, and algae growth. This leads to cost savings and less disruption to daily operations.
5. Roof coatings are a cost-effective solution for commercial buildings
Compared to full roof replacements, applying a coating is often a more cost-effective option. In general, coatings are generally less expensive, require less labor and materials, and can help delay the need for a costly roof replacement. Therefore, you enjoy significant building maintenance savings over time.
How to Choose the Right Roof Coating for a Commercial Building in Florida
Choosing the right coating to protect the roof of a commercial building is crucial. Commercial properties in Florida experience extreme weather conditions that can cause significant damage to roofs. The most common roof coatings for commercial buildings in Florida are acrylic, silicone, polyurethane, and reflective coatings.
Acrylic roof coatings
Acrylic roof coatings have excellent UV resistance. They form a seamless, flexible membrane and help protect the roof structure against the elements. Also, acrylic coatings are typically white or light-colored, thus offering good reflectivity and energy efficiency. They are easy to apply and suitable for a wide range of roofing substrates.
Silicone roof coatings
Silicone coatings are ideal for flat-roof commercial buildings in Florida because they withstand moisture. Ideal for humid and wet climates, silicone roof coatings provide exceptional water resistance that tolerate ponding water. Additionally, they are highly UV resistant and maintain their flexibility over time.
Polyurethane roof coatings
Polyurethane coatings are known for their durability and abrasion resistance. So, they offer excellent waterproofing properties and can provide a protective layer over the existing roof. In addition, polyurethane coatings are highly flexible, allowing them to move with the roof without cracking or breaking down over time. This helps reduce the need for costly repairs due to weathering or moisture damage.
Asphalt roof coatings
Asphalt-based coatings are made from bitumen and provide excellent waterproofing and UV protection. Roof coatings from asphalt can contain metal pigmentation, which enhances reflectivity. As a result, they are easy to apply and form a protective barrier against moisture, thus extending the roof’s life.
Reflective roof coatings
Reflective coatings—whether from acrylic, silicone, or elastomeric roof coatings—reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption by the roof. This cool-roof technology helps to improve energy efficiency, something that all businesses in the Sunshine State must do. Reflective roof coatings are typically light-colored and can be applied over different roofing materials.
Related reading: How to choose the right roofing materials for a commercial building in Florida.
Maintenance and Care for a Roof Coating in Florida
Commercial building owners in Florida need to invest in an effective roof coating system. In addition to shielding your roof from water damage and harmful UV rays, roof coatings can reduce energy bills and protect your building from harsh weather conditions. However, the key to prolonging the life of your roof coating and receiving maximum benefits is ensuring routine maintenance and care.
Here are some helpful tips on how to maintain a roof coating to maximize its lifespan:
- Regular inspections: It’s a good idea to inspect commercial roofs in spring and fall. A professional Florida roofing contractor can look for signs of damage, like cracks, blisters, loose or missing shingles, and ponding water.
- Clear debris: During an inspection, it’s crucial to remove debris, like leaves, branches, and dirt, from the roof surface. Also, it’s vital to ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear and function properly.
- Address ponding water: Heavy rainfall in the Sunshine State can lead to ponding water on flat roofs. Ensure that drainage systems are clear, and water doesn’t accumulate in puddles. If persistent ponding occurs, consult a roofing professional to devise a solution.
- Check flashings and seals: A critical aspect of a commercial roof inspection is to inspect roof flashings. Look for signs of damage like cracks or splitting in the seals. This step is essential to prevent water leaking into the building.
Roof Coatings for Florida Commercial Buildings: The Bottom Line
Roof coatings are a wise investment for commercial buildings in Florida. Not only do they protect against roof damage caused by water, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions, thus extending the life of your roof.
However, investing in a professional roof coating can also help reduce energy bills. A reflective coating reduces heat absorption, helping you slash the cost of cooling the building during warm weather. Also, regular maintenance and care of the coating system ensure maximum benefits to commercial building owners.
