Roofs are essential elements of a home or building, so it’s vital to ensure they last as long as possible.
Fortunately, there’s a way to extend the life of your roof with an innovative product: applying a liquid rubber roof coating.
If you are ready to replace your roof, contact your local roofing pros for FREE ESTIMATES!
What Is Liquid Rubber Roof Coating?
A liquid rubber roof coating is a type of coating made up of an elastomeric compound that can be used on various roofs to protect them from weather damage, UV rays, and other elements.
Liquid rubber roof coatings can provide flexibility and breathability that traditional roof coatings cannot match.
Liquid rubber roofing is exceptionally long-lasting and pliable, making it much more reliable than other types of roofing material.
Also, its light weight does not put a lot of strain on the ceiling or underlying structure, which can be an issue with heavier materials.
In addition, it prevents moisture from penetrating the roof and offers resistance toward standing water so that it has no way in, regardless of whether water pools up on it for extended periods.
Average Cost Of Butyl Roof Installation
The cost of sealing a roof will vary depending on the material, slope, experience, and guarantees of the applicator.
A rough estimate is around $2,500 for the application.
DIY may be lower, potentially as low as $1,500, but it has risks, especially if you don’t have experience with roofing.
The coating cost per square foot typically ranges from $2 to $5, while labor usually costs between $0.60 and $1 per square foot.
Expect to spend approximately , including both the cost of the liquid EPDM (synthetic rubber) coating and labor.
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Liquid Rubber Coating Cost Breakdown
Here are the approximate prices for liquid roof coating if you hire a professional roofer:
| Material Type | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Polyurethane | $3-$6 |
| Acrylic | $3.50-$6.50 |
| Silicone | $4.50-$7.50 |
| Spray Polyurethane | $6.50-$12.50 |
Polyurethane
Polyurethane coatings, or ‘polyurethane roof paint,’ are usually $3 to $6 per square foot and include a base and top coat.
The principal advantage of these is they easily adhere to metal roofs, flashing, EPDM rubber, and other surfaces, making them the preferred choice for a commercial roof.
Acrylic
The cost of an acrylic roof coating installed on a roof ranges from $3.50-$6.50 per square foot, depending on the amount of preparation required before its application.
Acrylic coatings are suitable for use on several surfaces, such as metal, EPDM, TPO, PVC-modified bitumen, and BUR roofs.
This versatile elastomeric material is easy to work with and can cover sloped metal roofs.
Silicone
Silicone roof coating is the best choice for stand-alone and SPF roofs, but its high cost of materials, supplies, and labor necessary for preparation and installation can add up to a hefty sum.
It’s possible to get quality silicone roofing at a rate of $4.50 to $7.50 per square foot installed, depending on the type and brand of silicone used, the number of applications done, and your home’s location.
Spray Polyurethane
A spray polyurethane foam roofing system is dramatically more expensive than just applying a standard liquid roof coating.
This higher cost is attributable to the additional steps involved in this process, including the application of liquid spray polyurethane foam, which expands and secures to the roof deck, and a reflective elastomeric topcoat layer (usually silicone) plus granules.
For larger flat roofs, one should expect to pay from $6.50 up to $12.50 per square foot for installation costs.
Did you know? Spray polyurethane is a flexible and durable protective coating used to finish both interior and exterior surfaces. Its excellent resistance properties make it an ideal choice for protecting wood or metal furniture from everyday wear and tear.
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What Is The Best Liquid Rubber Roof Coating?
Liquid rubber roof coatings are one of the best ways to protect your roof from weather damage.
They form a thick, formidable barrier that resists wind, rain, snow, and ice.
Among the various choices for liquid roofing, silicone roof coatings stand out as the best option for protecting roofs from UV radiation and withstanding pooled water.
Unlike other coatings, silicone erodes slowly over time without compromising strength or becoming brittle or stiff.
Technology advancements have enabled modern silicone-based formulations to contain higher levels of solid material – usually surpassing 90 percent by volume.
Silicone roof coating is a high-performance liquid-applied solution that can protect and waterproof any roof.
It is one of the most popular choices for commercial and residential buildings due to its superior quality and durability.
Silicone roof coatings are moisture cured, forming an impermeable layer that creates a weatherproof barrier against water, UV radiation, wind-driven rain, snow, and sleet.
This protective layer helps reduce energy costs by reflecting sunlight away from the building in the summer months while also keeping it warmer during winter.
Depending on its exposure to the elements, the material can last up to 30 years before needing re-application.
Additionally, silicone roof coatings provide excellent dirt-shedding properties that help keep roofs looking clean for extended periods without requiring extensive maintenance or repair services.
The Pros Of Liquid Roofing
There are a lot of benefits to using liquid rubber roof coating.
For one, it can help extend the life of your roof by protecting it from the elements.
It’s also great for preventing leaks and keeping your energy bills down.
Elasticity and Durability
Butyl elastomeric roof coating stands out for its elasticity and strength.
This solvent-based polymer coating creates a pliable, long-lasting barrier that can manage temperature changes without damaging the roof surface.
Once cured, it provides complete protection from daily wear and tear and thermal cycling.
Water Protection
Liquid roof coating provides a seamless layer that prevents water and other weather elements from seeping into the roof of a home.
With flat roofs, pooling water can be an issue; however, proper installation will significantly reduce the risks.
Factors such as people walking on the roof may still cause indentations in the surface over time, but the protection will ensure that no moisture goes through.
Vapor Blocking
Liquid rubber coatings have low permeability, meaning they are good at blocking vapors.
This feature makes them ideal for an outer layer on spray polyurethane foam in places requiring cold storage or freezing temperatures.
Cool Roof
Another significant advantage of liquid roof coatings is their ability to provide a cool roof value.
White roofs are most commonly used for this purpose due to their high reflectivity, but other colors are also available.
Aluminum-colored asphalt liquid roofs have a reflective finish, keeping hot air out and maintaining cooler temperatures inside the home or building. This trait makes them ideal for use in warmer climates where energy efficiency is critical.
Membranes with a butyl coating can reflect up to 90% of ultraviolet rays from the sun, mainly if it is white.
Facility managers can take advantage of this by significantly reducing cooling costs in the summer months. This saves money on energy bills and helps keep the inside temperature down, and prolongs roof life.
Did you know? Cool roofs reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofs. This reduces your cooling costs in the summer and can help protect your roof from thermal shock. Cool roofs also reduce air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and urban heat islands.
Simplicity and Low-Maintenance
This roofing product is the perfect solution for any climate and application, as it only needs one coat of paint with no primer required.
It can handle temperature extremes, acids, lightning, and animals.
Furthermore, liquid rubber coating requires little to no maintenance after installation.
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The Cons Of Liquid Roofing
On the downside, liquid rubber can be expensive, and it’s not always easy to find a reliable contractor to apply it.
Cost-Effectiveness
Butyl roof coatings are not as cost-effective as other roof coating products due to their low solids content, meaning that a more significant amount of the product must be applied to achieve the desired dry film thickness (DFT). Once cured, only a small percentage of solid material will remain on the surface.
Spraying
Using any solvent-based coating, such as butyl, can pose a challenge when spraying it with hydraulic equipment; however, taking the necessary precautions to clean and maintain the spray apparatus should minimize potential issues during installation.
Potential Damage
Depending on the material, prolonged exposure to the elements can cause it to become brittle and eventually break.
Applying a new roof topcoat periodically is generally a practical solution, but the roof requires regular inspections to ensure it stays in good condition.
While there are no set maintenance requirements, it is still beneficial to carry out routine check ups.
Insulation
This material is not an excellent insulator like some other roofing materials.
However, this disadvantage may be offset when used as a coating rather than as the primary material in a roofing system.
Spray polyurethane foam roofs are an alternative to traditional liquid roof coatings because they provide a base layer of insulation under the topcoat of liquid roof coating.
Did you know? Insulation works by trapping air between its fibers and preventing heat from escaping, creating an effective barrier against extreme temperatures. Insulation can also reduce noise levels, making it an excellent choice for soundproofing.
Liquid Rubber Roof Coating Reviews
If you’re looking for a roof coating that provides a waterproof barrier and sealant for your roof, you may want to consider a liquid rubber roof coating.
This roof coating can be applied to most roofs, including asphalt, metal, and concrete. It’s also available in various colors to match your home’s exterior.
To help you decide if liquid rubber roof coating is the right choice for your home, read reviews from customers and contractors who have used these products.
User reviews of liquid rubber roof coating are generally positive.
People note that it is easy to apply and provides excellent protection from the elements.
It lasts for years without needing to be reapplied, and people have pointed out a significant decrease in energy costs as heat has been better regulated since applying the product.
On the negative side, some users have complained about difficulty mixing multiple packages to get an even application or problems with the application due to surface irregularities on their roofs.
But overall, user reviews of liquid rubber roof coating are overwhelmingly positive.
How Long Does Liquid Rubber Last On Roof?
Liquid rubber roof coatings can last well over 20 years on a properly maintained roof.
However, it is important to note that liquid rubber is not a roofing material, but a coating applied to an existing roof.
The lifespan of a liquid rubber coating will depend on the condition of the underlying roof and the environment in which it is exposed. For example, roofs in sunny and dry climates will last longer than in humid and rainy climates.
Liquid Rubber is known for its incredible durability and longevity, often without signs of cracking, peeling, diminishing strength, or sealing capacity.
This material has been in circulation in North America and Europe for over four decades, with many roofs, structures, and other installations still having the same liquid rubber coating applied over 30 years ago.
Pro Tip: To increase the longevity of your liquid rubber coating, apply it on a dry surface in temperatures between 40- and 90-degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, use multiple light coats instead of one heavy coat for better adhesion and an even finish.
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How To Apply Liquid Rubber Roof Coating
Contrary to popular belief, leaks can occur in any recreational vehicle (RV) regardless of its model year or the price tag.
Why Should You Apply Liquid Roofing to an RV
As you navigate the highways and byways with your RV, the roof is subjected to a great deal of strain that can cause tiny cracks around skylights, vents, and air conditioning units.
This means that even if you have purchased a high-end, late-model RV, it is still vulnerable to developing leaks over time.
For optimal protection of your RV, it is recommended that you apply a top coat of liquid rubber RV roof coating every few years.
You can decide the best time to do this, whether at the start of camping season or right before you close up your unit for the year.
To ensure proper application, look for a dry, sunny day with temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Working in direct sunlight or extreme heat should be avoided if possible, so plan to begin your project early in the day or late in the afternoon.
Additionally, each coat will need time to cure, usually four to eight hours, before applying another.
Applying Liquid Roofing to the RV
It is essential to ensure that your roof is immaculate and dry before resurfacing.
Please start the process by washing down the entire surface of the rooftop with a hose or power washer, then rinse it off thoroughly with water.
If you must use an extension ladder to access the area, always practice safety measures such as securing it on firm ground, wearing slip-resistant shoes for better footing, and enlisting someone else’s help to complete the job safely and efficiently.
Begin on one side and slowly pour about a quarter of the can of topcoat for your RV onto the roof.
Take a clean roller with no lint and gently paint the coating around the vents, antennae, and seams to ensure complete coverage.
Work in sections until you reach an area close to your ladder.
Be careful not to walk over any freshly-resurfaced sites when it comes time to get off the roof.
Make sure each section is dry before applying more coats, if necessary.
Is Liquid Rubber Roofing Any Good?
Liquid rubber roofing is a type of roofing that uses a liquid form of rubber to coat the roof’s surface.
This type of roofing is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its many benefits, which include durability, flexibility, and resistance to weather and UV rays.
Liquid rubber roofing is also eco-friendly, as it can be produced using recycled materials, such as tires or synthetic materials, protecting the rubber trees.
There are only a few drawbacks to liquid butyl rubber roofing, but they’re necessary to consider and remember.
It is more difficult to spray on than other roofing materials (even when hiring a professional) and may require professional help.
Additionally, one must be very careful in cleaning the equipment after use and know that this material does not offer much color stability.
However, if you are not looking for a custom color or finish, these should not present an issue.
Pro Tip: When choosing the best roof coating for your home, it’s essential to consider factors like climate, the type of roof you have, and desired aesthetic. For example, if you live in a warm or humid climate like the southern United States, you’ll want to opt for an elastomeric coating that can expand and contract with changing temperatures.
Rubber Roof For Your Home
Liquid rubber roof coatings are an excellent option for households and businesses needing an affordable and effective solution to protect their roofs from the natural elements.
They are durable, long-lasting, energy-efficient, cost-effective, and easy to install.
Before deciding on this type of roof coating, you must research the best options available for your individual needs and budget.
You’ll also want to find a local contractor who can provide installation services.
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For over 20 years Leo has run a successful roofing business in New England, specializing in metal roofing, as well as cool flat roofing technologies. Having replaced and installed hundreds of roofs in New England, Leo has first hand experience with pretty much every residential roofing material and roofing manufacturer available in the US.
