Reflective roof coatings are growing in popularity for business owners and commercial property managers, primarily because reflective coatings can help to significantly lower cooling costs. They do this by reflecting the sun’s heat away from the building and reducing the temperature on the roof, which is especially important in southern states that experience extensive periods of hot sun. Commercial property owners may not know that these particular roof coatings also have other benefits. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about reflective coatings for your commercial roofing system.

There are many benefits to installing reflective coatings, including:

Reduced cooling expense: As mentioned above, reflective coatings can help lower cooling costs by reflecting the sun’s heat, typically resulting in savings on energy bills.
Extending longevity: Reflective roof coatings protect the roofing system from the elements, maintaining better material condition, preventing fading or cracking, and ultimately extending its longevity.
Minimizing UV damage: One of the more significant benefits of reflective roof coatings is that they can reflect up to 95% of the sun’s UV radiation, minimizing UV damage and maintaining a cooler temperature inside the building.
Maintaining aesthetic appearance: Because reflective coatings protect the roof from damage, they will hold a newer and more professional appearance for years to come.

Variations of Reflective Coatings

There are several reflective roof coatings available, each with specific benefits. These may include silicone roof coatings, which are considered one of the most durable kinds of reflective coating, lasting as long as 15 years. Silicone is resistant to UV damage and weathering, making it an excellent option for sunny regions. Acrylic roof coatings are also durable and weatherproof, resisting fading over time.

What Are Cool Roofs?

Conventional roofs absorb sunlight during daylight hours, heating the building structure and the surrounding air. Roofs that are lighter in color or are reflective can remain cooler than roofs that absorb sunlight.

A cool roof is comprised of a material that can reduce the surface temperature and decrease the amount of heat transferred into a commercial building. A cool roof may also be made of traditional materials but coated with a reflective coating. A cool roof can reflect sunlight away from the building, so it stays cooler – and has a high solar reflectance. A cool roof may also release heat (infrared radiation) to remain cool, a property known as high thermal emittance. The most effective cool roof boasts both high solar reflectance (SR) and high thermal emittance (TE).

While lighter-colored roofs typically offer the highest SR and TE, new reflective coatings and material technologies have been introduced for other colors.

Choosing The Right Reflective Coatings

Any decision made about the upkeep and maintenance of a commercial roof is best made with the advice of a reputable and trustworthy roofing contractor. These professionals can help you make the choices that may represent an upfront cost, but they can also protect your roof and defer additional maintenance or replacement for decades to come. Selecting the appropriate coating to improve a commercial roof and maintain cool temperatures during the hottest months may be overwhelming without professional recommendations because each option has benefits and drawbacks. The right solution for your business may not be the right solution for your neighbor.

It is estimated that nearly 60% of completed roof replacements were unnecessary and that commercial property owners could have saved time, money, and headaches by choosing a roof coating solution instead. At Unicoat Industrial Roofing, we have built a reputation as a trusted client partner. We will perform a professional assessment and provide the appropriate options for your unique needs and situation.

If you are responsible for the roofing system at a condominium, airport, or industrial warehouse – call Unicoat today to learn more.