Metal roofing is lightweight, easy to maintain and aesthetically appealing. if properly maintained, it can last indefinitely; however, metal is inherently susceptible to damage from high wind and corrosion. Expensive repairs can be avoided with the proper application of an elastomeric roof coating.

A high-quality roof-coating system includes a biodegradable cleaner to prepare the surface metal, industrial grade caulk for repairs at seams and protrusions, and an elastomeric coating made from 100 percent acrylic resins. The added benefit of an acrylic roof coating is it will remain permanently flexible, allowing the metal to expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature. White or light-colored coatings also reflect UV heat from the sun from the building surface, significantly reducing interior temperatures.

The following is an overview for the proper application of a liquid-applied, acrylic roof coating over metal roofing. The use of this type of acrylic coating system is tax deductible as a maintenance expense and, with proper maintenance and occasional recoating, it will last for the life of the building.

The Surface Inspection

Surface Preparation

1. Apply acrylic coating liberally, using a brush or roller, along the area to be detailed. While the acrylic is still wet, embed a strip of reinforcement mesh centered over the seam, joint or interface. Work the mesh into the acrylic, applying additional material as necessary to totally encapsulate the reinforcing fabric.

2. Cut a length of butyl-backed, woven reinforcing tape to the desired length. Peel off the release backing, center the strip over the detail area and press it firmly into place, removing all wrinkles and bubbles. A wallpaper-seam roller is helpful in securing the tape to the metal deck.

3. Apply a butter-grade sealant, using a brush, roller or airless spray, to a thickness of 60 to 80 dry mils over the detail area. Extend the sealant a minimum of 1 inch on either side of seams, joints and interfaces.

All mechanical fastener heads should be treated using one of the following methods:

1. Apply a butter-grade sealant to completely encapsulate the screw head, and seal the base of the fastener to the metal deck.

2. Apply a butyl-backed, foil-faced reinforcing patch by centering the cap over the fastener head and pressing it firmly in place to seal the cap flush around the base.

Elastomeric Coating Application

All roof-preparation materials must be allowed to dry prior to application of the acrylic coating. Immediately prior to application of the coating, all dust, dirt and other contaminants should be blown off the roof surfaces using high-pressure, compressed air. Cover the entire roof substrate as follows:

1. Apply the basecoat at a minimum rate of 1 gallon per 100 square feet.

2. After allowing the basecoat to dry, apply the topcoat at a minimum rate of 1 gallon per 100 square feet. Apply the elastomeric coating by airless spray, using a multipass spray technique to ensure even coating application to all sides of the metal-panel corrugation. Make a conscious effort to apply coating into crimped or presealed vertical (side-lap) seams that have not been detailed.

3. The total basecoat/topcoat minimum dry-film thickness required at any location is 15 mils. This is generally considered the minimum coating thickness for a five-year product warranty. For extended coverage periods, additional coats and heavier film builds will be required.

Cleanup

Maintain work and work areas in a clean, safe condition at all times during coating installation. Remove excess materials, trash and debris from the job site daily. At the completion of the project, clean the area of any spills and containers, and clean up all roofing debris, leaving the job site in a clean, orderly condition.

Clint Whitsett works for United Coatings, a Greenacres, Wash.-based manufacturer of Roof Mate, a water-based, 100 percent acrylic elastomer designed to extend the life of existing roofs by forming a permanently flexible, reflective membrane. For more information, call 509.926.7143 or visit www.unitedcoatings.com.