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The importance of a robust and durable roof cannot be overstated. So, when is the right time to re-coat a foam roof?

Foam roofing, composed primarily of polyurethane foam, has proven to be a dependable choice for many property owners due to its insulation proficiency, water resistance, and longevity. Even with these merits, ensuring timely maintenance, particularly the recoating of a foam roof, is pivotal to maximizing its lifespan and efficacy. 

This detailed article explores the critical considerations and guidelines for determining the optimal time for recoating a foam roof, offering insights into the signs, seasonal preferences, and step-by-step procedures involved in the re-coating process.

Understanding the Significance of Re-coating

A foam roof, characterized by its insulation capabilities and durable nature, is an asset to any building. However, understanding the significance of timely re-coating is crucial to sustain its performance and extend its lifespan. 

Re-coating a foam roof is applying a new coating layer over an existing foam roof. This is done to protect the foam from the elements and to extend its lifespan. Foam roofs are typically re-coated every 5-10 years, depending on the type of coating and the climate.

The re-coating process typically involves cleaning and inspecting the roof, applying a base coat, and then applying a top coat. There are various coatings that can be used to re-coat a foam roof, and the best coating for your roof will depend on the climate, the type of foam, and your budget.

Why is Re-coating Necessary?

Re-coating is an indispensable aspect of foam roof maintenance, enhancing the roof's resilience against various environmental and mechanical stressors, including UV radiation, rainfall, wind, and physical impacts.

Here are some of the benefits of re-coating a foam roof:

 A consistent recoating schedule effectively preserves the foam roof's structural integrity, thereby prolonging its service life.

Determining the Right Time for Re-coating

Determining the right time to re-coat a foam roof is a strategic decision that hinges on various factors, ranging from the visible condition of the roof to its age and the external environmental factors to which it is exposed. 

Here's an in-depth exploration into the various considerations and indicators that can guide property owners in making an informed decision about the right time for re-coating their foam roof.

Key Signs to Look For:

infographic illustration on signs to look for before recoating

1. Age of the Roof:

One primary factor in determining the need for re-coating is the age of the foam roof. Typically, a re-coating is recommended every 5 to 10 years, though this timeline may vary based on the specific materials used and the climate in the area. Keeping track of the last time the roof was coated is essential for timely maintenance.

2. Visible Damage or Wear:

Visible signs of damage or wear on the foam roof, such as cracks, blisters, or a rough texture, indicate the need for re-coating. Prompt attention to these issues prevents further deterioration and ensures the continued effectiveness of the roofing system.

3. Water Ponds or Leaks:

The appearance of water ponds or leaks on the foam roof suggests a decline in its water-resistance capabilities. Re-coating at this juncture is crucial to restore its waterproof properties, thereby preventing additional water damage to both the roof and the underlying structure.

4. Fading or Chalking:

Fading or chalking of the roof surface indicates the breakdown of the existing coating under UV exposure. This sign signifies that it’s time to apply a new coating to protect the foam substrate from UV damage and maintain the roof’s energy efficiency.

Seasonal Considerations:

1. Ideal Weather Conditions:

Weather plays a significant role in determining the right time for re-coating. Ideal re-coating should be undertaken in mild, dry weather conditions, preferably when temperatures are consistently between 50°F (10°C) and 100°F (37.8°C). This range allows for optimal adhesion and curing of the new coating.

2. Avoid Rainy or Freezing Seasons:

The rainy season is unsuitable for re-coating due to moisture, which can negatively impact the adhesion of the new coating. Similarly, freezing conditions can affect the curing process and the performance of the coating. Planning the re-coating project outside these seasons is advisable.

Professional Inspection:

A professional inspection can provide a thorough and accurate assessment of the foam roof’s condition, helping make an informed decision about the timing for re-coating. 

Roofing experts can identify issues or potential problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye, ensuring that the re-coating is performed at the optimum time to maximize its benefits.

Engaging professional services for inspection and assessment adds an extra layer of assurance, ensuring that the re-coating process is timely and effective, and contributes to the prolonged life and performance of the foam roof. 

Comprehensive Steps for Re-coating a Foam Roof

Re-coating a foam roof is a meticulous process that involves several crucial steps to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the new coating. A structured approach, incorporating a thorough inspection, repair, cleaning, and correct application of the new coat, guarantees optimal results. 

Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the successive steps involved in re-coating a foam roof.

infographic illustration steps for re-coating a foam roof

1. Preliminary Inspection:

Initiate the recoating task with a comprehensive inspection of your foam roof. Assess its current condition, identifying and documenting areas requiring repairs or special attention. Engaging a professional roofing contractor for this evaluation can provide expert insights and recommendations.

2. Repair Work:

Prioritize addressing any discernible damage, including cracks, blisters, or areas of foam exposure. Effective repair work ensures a solid foundation for the new coating, guaranteeing optimum adhesion and protective coverage.

3. Thorough Cleaning:

A clean surface is crucial for the new coating’s successful application. Employ appropriate cleaning techniques, possibly utilizing a power washer, to meticulously remove accumulated dirt, debris, and loose materials from the roof surface.

4. Application of Primer:

Apply a suitable primer to the cleaned and repaired roof surface. A primer enhances the new coating’s adhesion, ensuring a secure and long-lasting bond with the foam roof surface.

5. Actual Re-coating:

With the roof surface primed, proceed with applying the new coating. Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensuring you achieve uniform coverage and the recommended coating thickness for maximum protection and durability.

6. Curing Time:

Post-application, allow ample time for the new coating to cure fully. Refrain from any activity on the roof during this period to avoid compromising the coating’s integrity.

Conclusion

Understanding the appropriate timing and processes for recoating a foam roof is imperative for maintaining its durability and functional reliability. Heeding the highlighted signs, opting for suitable weather conditions, and following the detailed recoating steps ensure your foam roof remains in peak condition, providing dependable protection for your building for years. 

Hiring experienced and skilled professionals for the recoating project can further guarantee exceptional workmanship and results, warranting your investment's optimum value and your building's sustained safeguarding.

There’s a lot of chatter in recent years about foam roof installation otherwise known as white or “cool” roofing options.

Basically, the thought is that dark colors, roofs constructed of asphalt or tar materials, take in heat, which increases the utility bills for the property they are installed on.

Whereas white or light-colored materials reflect the heat.

The main point is that lighter-colored materials, like white spray foam, will help the occupants save money over time. 

Not to mention reduced energy costs.

The government has encouraged property owners to go with foam roof installation on their properties.

They are also suggesting that all future roofing be lighter or white in color.

One Thing That Is a Factor in Foam Roof Installation… Where Your Property is Located.

In areas like Phoenix or Tucson, for example, where AC systems are used for a great portion of a calendar year, it would seem like an easy choice.

And, there are some states, like California, that are forcing commercial buildings to go with a foam roof installation.

But, in cooler areas of the country, like Minneapolis or Chicago, it’s a little more complicated. There are some studies that show in the colder winter months, white roofing might actually increase heating expenses.

The debate is about how much it actually does. The question is whether the decrease in cooling costs in the summer months will compensate for a possible increase in heating costs in the winter.

Studies have disputed this, showing that the energy savings through air conditioning bills outweigh any negatives, even in colder climates like Chicago.

The other main factor is how cool roofing is, or can have on slowing down the effects of global warming.

One major study found that the heat reflected off of white, cool roofing does affect climate change by putting more heat into the atmosphere, which absorbs more carbon emissions.

Past studies had made claims that white roofing has a cooling effect, not a warming one.

Foam Roof Installation and The Environment

Know The Factors

So, you should know all the factors involved in the particular area where you reside before making any decisions. You should weigh all the pros and cons of your options and choose the one that best fits your locality and budget.

There are several types of reflective materials to make your choice from.

You could also benefit from some local financial incentives from your governing bodies. There are states that offer their citizens rebates if they install white, cool roofing.

Also, incentives may be being offered by the various utilities in your city, county, or state. On a roof with a dark surface, the temperature can get as hot as 180 degrees. on a warm sunny day.

If your roof heats up like this, it will impact your property’s interior, which might be great in Chicago during the winter months.

However, this is not the case in Arizona during the summer, as heat will get inside and rise. You’ll need to use more air conditioning as the temperature inside increases as a result.

Roof Color & Heat Islands

Also, a dark roof will disperse heat back into the air, increasing a city’s heat island effect. The cumulative effect is the planet’s solar reflectance by absorbing the heat from the sun and its rays. Scientists believe that this is having an impact on global warming and climate change.

This has created a movement towards government agencies recommending white, reflective roofing. For reflecting heat, white roofs are great solutions due to their smooth exterior.

Several major tests that have been completed have shown that dark materials, like shingles, asphalt, and tar, only reflect 5-10% of the sun’s rays. This also means temperatures rise 70 to 90 degrees more than the air around them.

White roofing materials, on the other hand, will reflect as much as 25% of the sun's rays with a 50 to 70-degree difference in the surrounding air. Some materials will reflect as much as 35% and only 60-degree differences.

Mikku and Sons Roofing (623) 465-1068 provides quality foam roof repair, foam roof installation, foam roof replacement, foam maintenance, and other roof repair services to the surrounding Phoenix area communities.

We’ve been a reputable, quality roofing contractor since 2001. Call us when you have any questions about installing or repairing a foam roof on your property.

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