Elastomeric roof coatings have properties similar to those in rubber, which allow them to contract and expand with the surface over which it is applied. Besides, some types of elastomeric roof paint can prevent fire, due to some excellent fire-resistant roofing materials that provide it with that property, contributing this way to your safety.
Q: I read the article where you talked about elastomeric coatings. How long does elastomeric roof coating last? Because some home improvement shows advertise it as lifetime coatings.
A: I haven’t ever seen anyone who manufactures or applies elastomeric roof paint saying that it lasts a lifetime. However, I’ve seen that these coatings last longer than those asphalt coatings that are commonly applied on flat roofs in many cities. A white elastomeric substance that reflects heat and keeps interiors cool was used to coat flat row-house roofs.
Its rubber-like properties allow elastomeric roof paint to return to its original dimensions after being deformed or stretched, as the coating contracts and expands with the surface over which it is applied.
“Roofs will be degraded over time by sunlight, heat, and cracking due to contraction and expansion,” Dow says. Traditionally, the aging roof will be torn off and replaced 15 to 20 years later.
So, how long does elastomeric roof coating last? “With regular maintenance, which is limited to occasional cleaning with a hose or power washer, elastomeric roof coatings could last as long as the building. The coating could be reapplied every 10 to 15 years,” Dow mentions.
“The roofing cost should be reduced 21% by a five-year increase in roof service life, cutting landfill waste from roofing,” Dow says. “Almost 4% of the total volume of solid wastes in the United States is represented by roofing waste.”
So, if you still have the question: “How long does elastomeric roof coating last if I apply it on my home’s roof?”, the answer could be that nothing lasts forever. However, proper maintenance can extend the life of pretty much everything, such as furnaces, decks, roofs, and central air systems. Therefore, chances are the best elastomeric roof coating helps your roof last longer than it was expected in the first place.
If you decide on getting it, just keep in mind that you should contact a professional who knows how to apply elastomeric roof coatings, as it’s not as easy as it might seem. If you try to do it on your own, it is very likely you end up with a bad roofing job and you’ll have to spend even more money than if you’d hired someone with experience since the beginning.
