Application of liquid roof coatings

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.

From here, the application of liquid roof coatings is much like painting. A roller and a brush for hard to reach areas are the only tools you need.