Many large commercial buildings exist on spacious campuses, but urban environments house a majority of retail, living, and commercial space. When it comes time to repair or replace a roof, the density of buildings in an urban setting makes construction all the more challenging. Coatings, on the other hand, provide an attractive alternative for urban roofing projects due to their mobility, ease of transport and application, and low environmental impact. The advantages of coatings are especially evident in busy metropolitan areas, when a roof replacement may require cranes, scaffolding, or even disrupt vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Waterproofing for commercial roofs

Coating solutions are made to be “built on site,” whether as a singular layer or a layered approach, utilizing fabric to reinforce liquid-applied membrane.

Liquid products represent a vital benefit when it comes to urban roofing projects and tight, crowded spaces. These products can typically be applied quickly and easily, employing lightweight tools that are easy to carry, such as brushes, rollers, or squeegees. These tools don’t require power or specialized equipment that can disrupt the routine of residents and neighbors. In addition, the build-on-site capability allows a contractor to optimize the roof system to match any space and provide maximum waterproofing – adhering to angles, flashing, and other areas where a custom fit is required.

Liquid-applied products are compatible with a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world. They can restore a structurally sound roof without requiring tearing off the existing roof and are often manufactured with low volatile organic compounds (VOC) content and low or no biocides.

Urban Roofing Projects: Combatting Heat Islands

As populations begin to congregate into a more centralized area, the urban heat island effect is created by more pavement, hardscape, and infrastructure and fewer trees and greenspaces. Research has studied the effects of urban heat islands, and while ground surfaces such as pavement and parking lots contribute significantly, so do roof surfaces. This dynamic results in higher temperatures in the area. By way of comparison, rural communities with less pavement and infrastructure and more trees generally experience reduced temperatures. To help mitigate the heat island effect, coating roof surfaces with lighter, more reflective colors will assist in moderating temperatures on the roof.

Coating an asphaltic roof with a white acrylic coating can significantly reduce the surface temperature by as much as 55 °F (30.6 °C). Cooling the roof’s surface benefits the building owner while reducing the heat island effect of the surrounding area.

Roof Coatings for Commercial Buildings

Roof coating solutions provide an ideal alternative to complete roof restorations in many ways.

Coatings and liquid membranes are an effective solution whether a property manager requires:

an easier solution for urban roofing projects
an innovative roof design that will protect and cool the building
a seamless and waterproof surface that resists ponding
a reflective roof solution to moderate and mitigate urban heat island effects

With various coating technologies on the market, the decision on which to choose can seem challenging. To assist with your decision, be sure to partner with a reputable roofing contractor who has the experience necessary to make an expert recommendation. At Unicoat Industrial Roofing, we have installed over 4 million gallons of roof coatings on commercial buildings across the United States. In business since 2000, our team offers over 75 years of collective experience on a wide range of roofing systems.

Call today to learn more about the benefits of roof restoration from Unicoat Industrial Roofing. Don’t replace your roof until you speak with one of our experts.