How to Apply Elastomeric Roof Coating on Metal Roof

An elastomeric roof coating system can work wonders for a metal roof. Coatings are an efficient, yet cost-effective method for restoring a roof to prime working condition. It’s like getting a new roof without a complete tear-off or sky-high investment. 

Once you’ve decided to install rubberized coatings, what comes next? Your roofing contractor will be doing the work, but you’ll want to be aware of the ins and outs of the process. That way, as the building owner, you can ensure the installation goes as smoothly as possible. Here are the steps your contractor will take to apply elastomeric roof coating to your metal roof. 

Step 1: Locate the necessary equipment 

Your contractor will gather all the necessary tools, equipment and protective clothing to complete the job. You might see rollers, brushes, brooms, sprayer equipment, safety goggles, harnesses and more. 

Step 2: Clean the roof surface

The crew will use a blower to remove all dirt and debris from the roof. Then, follow that up with a pressure washer to ensure it’s as clean as possible. If needed, they’ll use a degreasing solution to remove stubborn grime. Roof surfaces should be clean and dry before the coating is applied. To be safe, it’s best to let the roof dry completely. Most times, that will take between 12 – 24 hours. 

Step 3: Make repairs

This is the time for contractors to address cracks and blisters in the roofing material. They might also reinforce areas prone to leaks, such as the area around skylights or fasteners. TRUCO is your one-stop shop for seam compounds and coating products for every roof type, including metal roofing.

It’s important to pay close attention to detail in this step, as the quality of the workmanship could make a difference in whether water seeps into the roofing system. Just as the surface needs to be clean and dry, the surface also needs to be sound. Taking these considerations seriously will set the roofing system up for success.

Step 4: Apply the elastomeric roof coating

The crew will choose a mild, sunny day to apply the coating. Excess moisture and extreme temperatures can slow down or disturb the curing process.

As to how to apply elastomeric roof coating on a metal roof, the process begins with the equipment. If the applicator is using airless spray equipment to apply the coatings, they’ll use equipment with a minimum capacity of 3.4 gallons per minute and at least 3,300 psi. Then, they’ll apply the coating evenly with the nozzle 12 – 18 inches away from the existing roof surface. Your contractor might also choose to spread the coating onto your roof using a paint roller or broom. Applying the coating is fairly simple. Normally, there will be a first and second coat. Sometimes, contractors will apply a base coat or primer to prepare the roof for the coating and a top coat for another layer of protection. 

The roofing contractor needs to be thorough and detail-oriented throughout the application process. If the coating application is done incorrectly or unevenly, it can lead to premature vulnerabilities in the membrane. Doing it right the first time is much more time- and cost-efficient. This is also why it’s essential to find an experienced roof coatings contractor in your area. They’ll know exactly how to apply elastomeric roof coating on a metal roof. 

Elastomeric coatings aren’t only for metal roofs, though, they can be used on many roof systems, including TPO, EPDM, spray polyurethane foam, concrete and more. Get in touch with our team to determine if elastomeric coatings are right for your roof.