Do I Need a New Roof Coating or a New Roof?

New roof coating have become a popular option among contractors and building owners for extending the life of a structurally sound roof. Occasionally called liquid-applied roofing systems, these solutions are made up of multiple components that work together to form a seamless membrane. This will significantly lengthen the lifespan of an existing low-slope roof. Below are answers to some of the most frequent questions about the uses and effectiveness of restoring a roof with liquid-applied coatings:

1. Why might you choose a new roof coating over a roof replacement? 

Often, there are advantages to choosing a coating solution over a full roof replacement. Because the coating system is applied over the top of the existing structurally sound low-slope roof, there is no labor required for a tear-off and no old roofing materials to dispose of — a benefit for both the building owner and the environment. When the new coating system is installed, it forms a seamless roofing system that can bring years of protection.

2. What type of roof coating is best?

Multiple factors go into deciding which roof coating is right for a particular roof, but one of the most important considerations is the existing roof type. Not all coatings are suited for all roof types. Location and climate can play a factor.

There are several coating options for restoring existing roofs, including acrylic, silicone, and polyurethane coatings — each designed for specific roof types. If you are unsure which coating is the right one for your project, experts at John Hoagan Roofing can help.

3. Can you coat an older roof?

Usually, you can coat aging roof systems that are structurally sound. This is one of the reasons coatings have become popular among building owners. Restoring structurally sound old roofs and extending their service life is possible.

A thorough inspection can confirm if the existing roof is a good candidate for a roof coating. The next step is to prepare the surface. This requires making needed repairs, removing and replacing any moisture-saturated substrate, reinforcing seams and cleaning the surface to ensure the coating system will adhere properly (an adhesion test is typically required) to your old roof.

4. Can you place roof coating over shingles?

GAF and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) “strongly [advise] against the application of any type of field-applied coating over installed asphalt shingles.” Coating over asphalt shingles can degrade the shingle and cause issues with ventilation and airflow, leading to moisture build-up in the roof.

5. Does a fresh roof coating save me money?

Costs for coating a roof vary based on roof size, the amount of substrate preparation required, the type of coating system selected for the restoration, as well as the number of coats and the application rate used. Once these factors have been determined, the amount of product needed and product cost, you will need to factor in the expense of labor to prep and install the coating.

A restoration can provide more cost savings than a roof replacement, as well as potential tax benefits. Property owners may be able to expense the cost of the coating during the year because some coatings are not considered new roof installations. The coating is applied instead of depreciating the cost over the life of the system. Building owners should contact their financial advisors to discuss whether these benefits apply to their particular situation.

Protect Your Building Today

For enhanced warranty or guarantee protection for added peace of mind, many roof coating systems may be eligible. We are happy to answer questions about extending the life of your roof.

John Hogan Roofing has given customers top-quality roofing services using premium materials over the last quarter century. We pride ourselves on providing residents and property owners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg and surrounding communities with excellent roofing repair and replacement. Schedule a free estimate today.