How to Choose the Right Commercial Roof Coatings for Nevada
Commercial property owners and managers in Nevada face some unique challenges in the upkeep and maintenance of their roofing systems; choosing the right roof coatings is essential to ensure the roof’s maximum life cycle.
Much of Nevada is desert, which means roofing systems face a nearly constant onslaught of UV exposure from the sun, excessive heat in the summer, and thermal shock from quick temperature drops in the desert evenings. The mountainous areas of the Sierra Nevada must also contend with cold and snow, while the year-long trek of tourists to Las Vegas means the properties there are in constant use.
These dynamics can potentially create undue wear on a commercial roof that isn’t properly prepared for them. In this article, we take a look at the various factors involved in choosing Nevada commercial roof coatings so you can make informed choices about the best solution for your property’s roof.
7 Top Considerations for Choosing a Roof Coating
1. Existing Roof Condition
One of the first questions that need to be answered is whether the current condition of the roof would benefit from roof coating in the first place. In other words, can the roof be restored by roof coating, or does it first need to be repaired or even replaced?
In many cases, commercial roofs in Nevada may deteriorate over time due to factors like UV exposure, chemical exposure from exhaust (for example, in some manufacturing facilities), dry heat, temperature fluctuations, etc. Roofs can also sustain physical damage from Nevada’s sometimes-brutal storms due to wind or hail. If damage has been allowed to persist, water leaks from rain and ponding water can make the damage even worse.
The best way to know the existing roof condition is to schedule a professional commercial roof assessment to ascertain whether the roof is ready for a roof coating or whether it needs to be repaired or replaced first.
2. Roof Type
The type of commercial roofing system in place also informs whether a roof coating is recommended for it. Roof coating restorations are best suited for flat or low-sloped commercial roofs consisting of either asphalt built-up roofing (BUR) or one of several membrane systems, including:
- Modified Asphalt (APP or SBS)
- TPO roofing
- PVC roofing
- EPDM roofing
These roof types can have their life cycle lengthened with the application of the right roof coating system.
3. Climate and Weather
The climate in which the building is located also plays a role in choosing commercial roof coatings. Some coatings perform best in warm, dry climates, while others offer better protection from the cold. Still, others may offer enhanced protection for roofs that are consistently exposed to high winds. A qualified roofing professional can help you determine which coating system is best, depending on your local weather conditions.
4. Energy Efficiency
Since many commercial buildings in Nevada require large amounts of energy to heat, cool, and function, any roof coating that can improve energy efficiency is worth considering. White or “cool roof” coating systems can deflect the sun’s heat, making it easier to keep buildings cool in the summer – and the added protection from harmful UV rays can also extend the life of the roof itself. Finally, commercial buildings with energy-efficient roofing often qualify for hefty tax benefits.
5. Sustainability
Building sustainably using “green” materials is a high priority in Nevada, and the state offers generous tax incentives for green practices, both in sustainable materials and energy efficiency. Applying an eco-friendly “cool roof” coating to a sustainable TPO membrane roof, for example, might go a long way toward qualifying for LEED certification.
6. Property Use
A commercial building’s use and purpose often inform the type of roof coating it needs. For example, certain manufacturing plants and even restaurants may need a roof coating that protects from chemical residues. Meanwhile, a busy Las Vegas resort may require a cool roof to limit its energy bills and/or an extra-durable coating to forego a roof replacement, which could be disruptive to hotel guests.
7. Roof Coating Product Durability and Lifespan
You’ll also need to consider the life expectancy and overall durability of any roof coating product, as well as the roof itself, especially when figuring out a budget of cost over time. It’s important to note that durability and longevity aren’t necessarily the same thing. A particular product might be highly resistant and protective but may still need reapplication every 10 years, for example.
Commercial Roof Coating Options for Commercial Buildings in Nevada
Having looked at the many different factors that must be considered when choosing a commercial roof coating in Nevada, let’s explore a few options that tend to serve well in Nevada’s diverse and sometimes trying conditions.
1. Elastomeric Coatings
Elastomeric coatings are protective roof coatings that form a highly flexible and durable membrane when dry. Elastomeric roof coatings typically offer excellent waterproofing and UV protection and are designed to last 10-20 years with proper care.
Elastomeric coatings are typically made from either acrylic or silicone. Acrylic coatings are usually best for roofs with a low to moderate slope, while silicone is good for flat roofs and tends to be more durable.
2. Silicone Coatings
When your roof system and budget support it, silicone roof coatings provide superior protection against some of Nevada’s harsher elements like heavy rain and high temperatures. Silicone is good for resisting leaks from ponding water; it also resists deterioration from wind, oxidation, and high temperatures.
Silicone is also VOC-free, so it is more friendly to the environment. Among the disadvantages are that silicone attracts dirt and must be cleaned regularly to maintain its “cool roof” properties. Silicone is also slick when wet, which makes it less desirable for sloped roof applications and sometimes requires installing an additional footpath.
3. White Roofing Products
Also known as “cool roofs,’ white roof coatings are among the most energy-efficient products available because they reflect the heat from the desert sun and keep buildings cooler. Very few commercial buildings in Nevada would not benefit from white roof coatings.
As a leading manufacturer representative company for commercial roofing products, RoofSource can help you determine the roof coating for your Nevada commercial roof system. Contact RoofSource today to schedule a commercial roof assessment.