Commercial roof coatings can extend the service life of your roof by protecting it from the damaging effects of inclement weather and ultraviolet rays from the sun. They can help you save money on roof repairs and hold off the need for a roof replacement.
However, there are dishonest “contractors” who have scammed unsuspecting property owners by selling commercial roof coatings that are just a little more than engine oil or water. This is why a lot of commercial property owners are iffy about hiring roof coating contractors.
This article aims to help you understand why you may need to have your roof coated and to give you tips and advice on how to protect yourself from scammers.
What Commercial Roof Coatings Can Do For You?
Aside from protecting your roof from the elements and extreme weather conditions, commercial roof coatings can make it waterproof and fire-resistant.
The coating provides a reflective layer that reduces temperature fluctuations, minimizing the expansion and contraction of the membrane. It also eases the load on your heating and cooling system by bouncing off sunlight.
Moreover, commercial roof coatings cost a lot less than roof replacement. You’ll save as much as 50% when you have your roof coated.
How to Spot a Commercial Roof Coating Scam?
If a contractor promises a quick turnaround and incredible results at an unbelievably low price, turn the other way. Remember the saying “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Scammers often use cheap, low-quality products that barely do anything for your roof. Others use leftover materials from other jobs. Some of them won’t even bother to make the necessary preparations or check for needed repairs before they apply the coatings.
Also, they often push you to make the decision now. They’ll give you limited time offers. Their goal is to persuade you to make a decision based on price alone.
One of the obvious signs that a “contractor” is actually a scammer is that they will often dodge questions about their previous work, materials, and processes. They’re also likely to ask for complete payment before they even finish the job.
A warranty may be offered by the contractor, but it doesn’t mean you can count on them to fix your roof if anything goes wrong. To scammers, a warranty is just a piece of paper.
Make Sure Your Contractor is Trustworthy
You won’t fall victim to unscrupulous and scammy contractors if you take the time to do research on the contractor you’re planning to hire. Trustworthy roof coating contractors typically have testimonials from satisfied clients. Check their websites and social media accounts to see what people say about them. You can also go to websites like GuildQuality to read reviews and see the ratings on the contractor.
Make sure that the people you hire are indeed employees of the company they claim to work for. Check their IDs. Their company logo should be on their vehicle and clothes.
Discuss the product warranty as well as insurance and work guarantees. Verify that the manufacturer warranty they provide is authentic.
It’s best to work with certified coating applicators. They undergo training that ensures they will be able to complete commercial roof coating projects successfully. Check with the coating manufacturer to see whether your contractor is certified.
Types of Commercial Roof Coatings
Knowing what roof coatings are available can help you choose the one that is most suitable for your roof. It will also help you ask the right questions to your contractor.
Here are the three main types:
01. Acrylic roof coatings
These are water-based coatings that are suitable for areas with high UV exposure. They are mostly in light, neutral colors such as white, gray and tan, but other colors are also available. They also come in specialized variants that can be applied to specific substrates.
02. Silicone coatings
Like acrylic roof coatings, they are ideal for high-UV environments because of their reflective properties. They’re best used in areas where it often rains and the roofs are usually wet.
03. Polyurethane coatings
These solvent-based coatings are most suitable for areas that are prone to hail damage. They are resistant to abrasion. Additionally, they have good mechanical properties and high tensile strength. There are two main types of polyurethane coatings: aromatic and aliphatic. (Note: The aliphatic type is UV stable.)
Final Thoughts
Commercial roof coatings offer benefits you don’t want to pass up. Don’t let scammers discourage you from having your roof coated. Better yet, hire someone that you know you can trust.
Allweather Roof is an award-winning team of talented professional roofers that you can trust and rely on. We’re committed to excellence in workmanship and customer satisfaction. For a worry-free experience with any roofing project, call us!