Roof coatings are often advertised as a less expensive way to extend the life of a roof without replacing it. For some roofing systems, that can be a good option. For others, it isn’t.
The difference comes down to the type of roof you have and its current condition.
For Maryland homeowners, Topper Roofing often sees this distinction come down to the roofing system itself. If you have a low-slope roof in good condition, adding a coating may help extend its lifetime. But if you have an asphalt shingle roof that’s deteriorated significantly, it isn’t going to help much. Knowing which situation you’re dealing with can help you avoid paying for a solution that doesn’t address the actual problem.
What Is a Roof Coating?
A roof coating is a protective layer applied over an existing roof. When the roof is in good condition and the coating is applied correctly, it can help extend the roof’s life and protect it from the elements.
Roof coatings are most often used on flat or low-slope roofs. These roofing systems are different from the sloped asphalt shingle roofs found on many Maryland homes.
A roof coating is not a fix for an already damaged roof. Before applying one, a roofing professional should inspect the roof to make sure the existing system is in good enough condition for a coating.
What If You Have an Asphalt Shingle Roof?
This is where the roof coating conversation can get confusing.
If your house roof is covered in asphalt shingles, it’s not recommended to apply field-applied roof coating over the shingles because it could affect the roof’s water management and ventilation system.
And since your shingles are worn out, old, cracked, or curled up, a roof coating won’t help solve your problem. What you want to discuss is usually either repairing or replacing the roof.
Where a Coating May Make Sense
Roof coatings can still have a place on a residential property.
Some Maryland residences have flat or low-slope roofs, including garages, porches, sunroom extensions, or other roof types that differ from the rest. The coating can be considered for such parts of the roof if they are in good condition.
We would look for adequate drainage, no unresolved active leaks, and a sound roofing surface before recommending one. Complete any necessary repairs first. Proper roof preparation and evaluation are important to determine whether a coating will work as intended.
If the roofing system has significant damage or moisture problems, replacement or another repair strategy may be more appropriate.
When Does Roof Replacement Make More Sense?
Roof replacement becomes more probable if there are issues throughout the whole area or the roof is approaching the end of its service life.
Signs that it’s time to have the roof evaluated for replacement include:
- Damaged shingles all around the roof area
- Water leakage in multiple spots
- Mislaid or damaged shingles that are cracked, curled or worn out
- Roof wind or storm damage
- Damage to the roof decking
- Moisture-related issues
- Reaching the end of the roof’s service life
Age is a determining factor, but it does not make a roof automatically replaceable. Even two identical-aged roofs can be in completely different conditions due to different installation and maintenance practices and other factors.
And it doesn’t mean that you need a replacement after suffering from a particular kind of damage. If there are only issues in one spot and everything else is fine, a repair might work just fine. Repair versus replacement should be based on the overall condition of the roofing system.
Maryland Weather Puts Roofing Systems to the Test
Maryland roofs deal with plenty of weather throughout the year.
The summer season has heat, sun exposure, and thunderstorms. Heavy rains and winds will highlight any weaknesses in your roof, while the cold winters, along with freeze and thaw cycles, can add additional stress to the roof material.
A small problem can become much more noticeable after severe weather. Any damage in the roof that causes moisture intrusion will eventually damage the deck, insulation, ceiling, or other aspects of your house.
If your roof is older or has already had problems, it’s worth having it checked rather than assuming a coating, repair, or replacement is the right answer.
So, Which Makes Sense for Your Home?
It depends on your roof.
At Topper Roofing, we don’t believe every roofing problem calls for the same solution. When we inspect a roof, we look at the system as a whole, including its condition, existing problems, and how much useful life remains.
If a repair is enough, we’ll tell you. If a low-slope section could benefit from a coating, we’ll explain that option. And if replacement makes more sense, we’ll walk you through what comes next.
You shouldn’t have to guess whether the recommended work fits your roof. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get an honest look at your home’s roofing system.
