Roof Restoration using Coatings or Fluid-Applied Roofing Systems
As roofs near the end of their expected life, building owners start planning for how to address their aged roofing system. Many building owners look at the options of replacement through complete tear off or recovering over the existing roofing system. However, many building owners don’t seriously consider the option of restoration of the existing roofing system. 80% of roofs are torn off that do not need to be – they can be repaired and restored to bring new life to an existing roofing system that is in good condition but is near the end of it’s expected lifecycle.
Not all roofs fall into the category of restoration candidates. Restoration is meant for properly designed roofs that have performed well throughout their life. Restoration is not meant to fix major defects with an existing roofing system, such as ponding water, blisters, racking wall flashing, splits, or other defects. The roof must pass diagnostic testing to determine that there is either minimal moisture saturated insulation, or no wet insulation at all. The roof being analyzed should also have proper slope and few defects.
Restoration of existing roofing systems is extremely useful for several situations, which include:
- Any project where disruption caused by reroofing would be a major problem
- Logistically difficult roofs where tearing off the existing roof and staging of new materials is a concern.
- Odor sensitive projects.
- Projects with challenges like low flashing heights or difficult penetrations.
- Projects where the existing roof is in good condition and tear off would be cost inhibitive.