Application of Liquid Roof Coatings Steps
Application of liquid roof coatings is
relatively simple. Most people can do it themselves. Here are the steps
typically recommended for the job.
Make a Plan
As with any job, planning is important. Depending
on the temperature variations in your area, you may need to plan to do the job
well in advance. Ideally, you want to work when the temperature is expected to
be between 65 and 75 for your own comfort. Working on roofs can be a very hot
or a very cold job.
The temperature must be between 55 and 140
degrees in order for most products to cure. Colder temperatures are not
generally recommending as the curing process is much slower and the ability to
spread the material becomes more difficult.
You want to work on a day when rain is not
expected. The product can waterproof immediately, but applying the material in
pounding rain is not recommended. Pitting can occur. It takes 16-20 hours
before the surface becomes dry to the touch. The full curing process takes
another 4-10 days if the temperature is around 70 degrees.
Clean and Prepare the Surface
Ideally the surface should be smooth and
clean. Any structural faults should be repaired beforehand. Structural faults
include damaged or cracked roofing beams.
Asphalt-based and silicone-based caulking
should be removed before the application of liquid roof coatings. Asphalt
roofing materials and silicone-based rubbers are generally not compatible with
EPDM rubber, although the use of a pre-coat can allow you to use the coating.
Manufacturers vary in their recommendations concerning the pre-coat.
Holes and low spots should be filled with
non-silicone based caulking to even out the surface. Although the coatings are
resistant to pooling water, the application of liquid roof coatings is easier
and the spread rate is higher if the surface is smooth. In other words, you
will need less of the material if you do the necessary work to create a clean
and smooth surface.
Purchase Your Tools
The easiest way to spread the coating is to
use a squeegee. If you are concerned about the material running down the side
of a sloped roof, such as might be on an RV, you should take steps to prevent
that from happening. Some products are specifically designed for slanted roofs.
They are thicker and dry faster than those used on flat surfaces, but they also
cost more.
