Three important considerations for a successful roof coating system installation

By Chris Huettig, KARNAK.

There are a lot of factors that can affect which roof coating system is the right one for a roof.

The last few years have seen an increased interest in the use of roof coatings and there are many reasons why this solution makes sense for your customer. Perhaps one of the top reasons is a roof coating system’s ability to restore a roof, eliminate leaks, and provide a warranty, all while helping the owner avoid a costly tear off.

For contractors thinking about adding coatings to their line of offerings, there are some considerations to be aware of for a successful installation.

1 - Existing roof system

It is important to choose a system that was designed specifically for the type of roof that you are restoring. One product does not fit all roofs. KARNAK has a line of reflective, acrylic coatings that features base coats that have been specifically formulated for each roofing system. The base coat is one of the most important as it is the layer that will adhere to the existing system. If the base coat has poor adhesion, the system will be more likely to experience failure or leaks. Our technical team can help you select the right product for the job.

2 - Surface prep

One of the most important factors is proper surface preparation prior to the installation of the coating system. There are different requirements for prepping each different roof system so it’s very important to follow the suggested methods. You wouldn’t use the same products to prep an EPDM roof as you would a bitumen roof. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instruction on how to prepare and apply the system.

3 – Proper application equipment

Many coating systems can be applied using rollers, brushes or spray equipment. You’ll need to be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve the most efficient application. KARNAK’s team of experts is happy to review projects and help you identify the best way to install the coating system based the unique needs of the roof and the required coverage rates.

Coatings are a great alternative to a full re-roof and can:

• Extend the life of the roof
• Reduce roof maintenance costs
• Reduce roof surface temperature, thermal shock and stress
• Help the environment by reflecting heat and reducing temperatures
• Increase the interior comfort for the building occupants

Learn more about KARNAK coating systems and which product is right for your job.