Unicoat Roofing recently finished a large-scale roofing project at a University of Alabama building in Montgomery, Alabama. Spanning 85,500 square feet, this project involved restoring both modified bitumen and metal roof sections. Over the course of 35 days, Unicoat’s team tackled a range of challenges, from failing coatings to leaks in both roof types. The successful completion of this project, ahead of the fall semester, ensured that the building was fully restored, leak-free, and ready to house students once again.

Project Overview: Challenges and Pre-Restoration Condition

The existing roof system consisted of a combination of modified bitumen and metal roofing, both of which were showing significant signs of wear. The modified bitumen roof had been coated with aluminum several years earlier, but the coating was failing, resulting in multiple leaks. Over time, exposure to the elements had caused seams to weaken, further exacerbating water intrusion issues.

The metal roof, although free from rust, was also experiencing leaks due to fasteners backing out and separating seams. These issues made the roof vulnerable to water infiltration, which posed a significant problem for a building that housed students. The leaks needed to be repaired urgently, and Unicoat was tasked with delivering a long-term solution that would restore the roof’s integrity.

Advanced Solutions with Sherwin-Williams Coatings

To address the specific needs of each roof type, Unicoat employed advanced materials from Sherwin-Williams.

For the modified bitumen roof, the team started by thoroughly cleaning the surface, removing the failed aluminum coating, and replacing any wet insulation and damaged cap sheets. After these repairs, Sherwin-Williams Uniflex High Solid Silicone was applied at a rate of 4.0 gallons per 100 square feet. The silicone coating not only restored the roof’s waterproofing but also provided enhanced UV resistance, significantly improving the roof’s durability and reducing future maintenance needs.

On the metal roof, the approach was slightly different. After pressure washing the entire surface, Unicoat ensured all fasteners were either replaced or secured. All seams and fasteners were treated with Sherwin-Williams OneFlash, a high-performance sealant designed to reinforce vulnerable areas and prevent leaks. Once the seams were sealed, the team applied Sherwin-Williams Uniflex Acrylic at 3.0 gallons per 100 square feet. This acrylic coating offers excellent protection against weathering and temperature fluctuations, ensuring the roof’s longevity.

Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Timely Completion

The project’s timeline was critical. With students scheduled to return in the fall, it was essential that all leaks were repaired and the roof was fully restored before the academic year began. Unicoat’s expertise and meticulous planning ensured that the project stayed on schedule, despite the challenges posed by both the metal and modified bitumen sections.

By using the latest coating technologies from Sherwin-Williams and adhering to industry best practices , Unicoat delivered a solution that not only stopped the leaks but also extended the life of the roof. The combination of silicone and acrylic coatings provided long-lasting protection, ensuring that the building would remain safe and dry for years to come.

Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Benefits

In addition to waterproofing and leak prevention, the application of white silicone and acrylic coatings has significantly improved the building’s energy efficiency. Both the silicone and acrylic coatings are reflective, meaning they help reduce heat absorption from sunlight. This results in lower cooling costs for the building, making it more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to operate. These energy-saving benefits are especially important for large, high-occupancy buildings like those found on university campuses.

Conclusion: A Testament to Unicoat’s Expertise

The successful completion of the University of Alabama roofing project is yet another example of Unicoat Roofing’s commitment to excellence. By utilizing cutting-edge materials and delivering tailored solutions for each roof type, Unicoat has once again proven its ability to handle complex, large-scale projects with precision and efficiency.

This project not only restored the roof to its original condition but also provided long-term benefits in terms of durability and energy savings. With Unicoat’s trusted craftsmanship and attention to detail, the University of Alabama can rest assured that their building is well-protected against future wear and tear.