If you’re exploring ways to extend your roof’s life or reduce your energy bills, you may have come across two of the leading options in New Mexico: elastomeric and silicone coatings.
At Engel Coatings Inc., our team often helps homeowners decide between the two. Both offer impressive protection and longevity, but they perform differently under specific conditions. Knowing how each type of roof coating in Las Cruces, NM, works will help you make an informed choice for your home.
Elastomeric roof coating acts like a flexible, waterproof skin that stretches and moves with your roof. The material is typically acrylic-based and waterborne so that it forms a seamless surface once cured. Because of its highly reflective properties, it helps lower rooftop temperatures while defending against the sun and weather.
These are some of the more attractive features of elastomeric coatings:
These coatings work best on roofs with good drainage, like those made from sloped metal, asphalt, or single-ply membranes. Homeowners often notice lower cooling costs during New Mexico’s hottest months because of the powerful reflective power of the coating.
An elastomeric coating provides improved roof membrane durability as it seals small cracks and protects subroofing. The recommended application thickness is usually two or three coats. This thickness ensures lasting coverage and long-term performance without overloading the roof structure.
Routine roof maintenance, including washing off dust or debris once a year, helps preserve reflectivity and efficiency. Many property owners also recoat every 10 years or so to renew the finish and keep protection at peak efficiency.
Silicone coatings elevate moisture resistance and longevity beyond standard elastomeric systems. Once properly cured, they form a dense, flexible membrane that withstands water, sunlight, and chemical exposure with exceptional strength.
Some of the main advantages of silicone coatings include:
Because they cure with humidity, silicone coatings install easily even in more humid conditions. Their smooth surface needs little more than an annual rinse to keep reflectivity high. A single coat often achieves the proper application thickness.
With a typical lifespan of 15 to 25 years, silicone systems offer reliable, long-term defense against New Mexico’s heat and rain.
These roof coating systems are well suited for our local climate, and they restore, protect, and extend the life of existing roofs. While they both help provide cooler surfaces, reduced leaks, and long-term cost savings, they excel in different environments.
Elastomeric coatings perform best on roofs with good drainage and moderate exposure to standing water. They’re affordable, eco-friendly, and easy to recoat, which appeals to homeowners focused on upkeep and value. When you prioritize cost control and easy future maintenance, elastomeric products deliver outstanding results.
Silicone coatings dominate where water lingers. Their hydrophobic chemistry repels moisture indefinitely, making them the right fit for roofs that hold puddles longer than 48 hours. They also retain energy efficiency longer since dirt and UV rays don’t degrade the surface as quickly.
Another difference involves recoat compatibility. Acrylic-based elastomeric layers accept new coats easily. Silicone, however, only bonds reliably to another silicone layer. While that limits future coating options, it ensures consistent roof membrane durability when properly maintained.
So, considering elastomeric vs. silicone roof coatings, which is best for your needs?
You may lean toward an elastomeric coating if:
You may favor a silicone coating if:
The right choice depends on your site conditions and maintenance preferences.
No matter whether you choose silicone or elastomeric roof coating, proper preparation and professional installation make all the difference. Engel Coatings Inc. can assess your existing surface, repair damage, and help you make the best decision between elastomeric and silicone roof coating.
Call our team at (575) 642-5481 or contact us online to schedule your roof inspection and get started on a free estimate today.
Adding a protective coating to your rooftop is an excellent way to prevent long-term damage. However, this extra layer may not be as effective if you ignore roof surface preparation before applying it. This begs the question: How do you prep a roof for coating?
At Engel Coatings Inc., we offer flat roof coatings for New Mexico homes and businesses. Our experts utilize the highest-quality products to combat the region’s harsh climate and keep your structure safe. Check out the steps that we always follow in preparation for this project.
Before diving into the preparation process, it’s important to first understand roof coatings. What are they, and is it worth investing in one?
High-quality coatings don’t eliminate the need for roof maintenance, nor do they repair existing roof damage. They do, however, offer another layer of protection against the elements.
In the Southwestern U.S., high heat and abundant sunlight can wreak havoc on roofing systems. You can opt for a custom coating with superior UV resistance to prevent fading and other forms of damage. Another coating may better suit a property in an area prone to wet conditions and ponding water.
Experts can apply custom coatings to several types of roofing materials, including:
No matter which variety of coating you end up with, you can have peace of mind knowing that your structure will resist the elements more effectively. Your roofing system can have a longer lifespan, and you’ll minimize future repairs as part of the benefits a custom coating provides.
How do you prep a roof for coating? Any expert will tell you that you can’t jump into this project without completing a few preliminary steps. Adequate preparation is key to getting the most out of your investment.
Below are the steps you can’t skip before applying silicone, elastomeric, acrylic, and other roof coatings. Make sure your contractor goes through each of these tasks in the lead-up to applying the coating. If they don’t, the material may not adhere properly and fail to protect your roof from damage.
You wouldn’t expect a doctor to treat your illness without first examining your symptoms. Why should you make any changes to your roof without evaluating it first? Depending on the structure’s condition, experts may need to prolong their preparation phase.
It all starts with a visual inspection. This allows contractors to detect some obvious issues with the structure, such as:
Depending on their findings, contractors might have to dig further to look for moisture damage. They may either cut out samples of the structure or perform a moisture survey to identify hidden water damage beneath the surface.
If you ask an expert, “How do you prep a roof for coatings?” they’ll tell you that an adhesion test is crucial. There’s no way of knowing how well the material will stick to the roof’s substrate unless you test a small piece of it.
To conduct this test, professionals clean a small patch of the roof and apply the coating. Pieces of fabric will serve as pull tabs for the test, which allow experts to try to remove the coating once it cures. If the material stays put, it passes the test, while a coating that lifts when pulled is considered a failed test.
A preliminary test allows experts to determine how much preparation the surface requires so that the material adheres to it. If the crew skips this step, they could waste time and money applying a coating that proves to be ineffective. Protect your investment by inquiring about their adhesion testing process.
Putting a coating over a leaky or structurally unstable roof won’t repair the existing problems. If your roof currently has leaks, damp substrates, loose flashings, or other types of damage, prioritize repairs.
The surface must be structurally sound and without any water damage. Depending on your roof’s condition, experts may need to delay the coating by several days while they take care of repairs. This is absolutely essential before they continue with the remaining steps.
How do you prep a roof for coating? Part of it involves assessing the structure to find the right materials. You don’t want to invest in a coating that doesn’t adequately protect your roof’s surface.
Narrow down your options with the help of qualified experts. They can review different materials and recommend ones based on the following criteria:
Think about the long-term effects of your decision. While a more expensive material might hurt your budget up front, it could offer long-lasting protection and ultimately save you money on various repairs.
Since your roof is completely exposed to the elements, it can accumulate plenty of dirt and debris. Preparing for a roofing coating requires a thorough power washing to remove all of the built-up dirt and grime, such as:
Imagine applying paint to a contaminated surface. The liquid may not adhere as well as it could if you started with a clean slate.
Before crews can begin putting down primer and roof coatings, they must prepare the surface accordingly. Highly pressurized water can blast away both loose dirt and hard-to-remove grime. In some cases, experts may use a soft-bristle brush to penetrate heavy buildup before rinsing it away with power washing equipment.
Roof coatings resemble paint. If you’re painting an interior or exterior surface, you typically start with a primer application to help it adhere to the wall. So, how do you prep a roof for coating?
Just like a standard painting project, the roof coating process always requires primer. This protective material hides any rust along metal roofing systems and prevents new rust formation. If you have an asphalt roofing system, primer prevents the coating from bleeding through the material.
Primer plays a key role in making a roof coating last. But it’s not the only component. Experts should also apply a sealant, especially near fasteners and seams.
A high-quality sealant helps waterproof the structure. Even the slightest bit of moisture intrusion can affect a roof’s structural integrity. Adding a sealant to vulnerable areas offers additional protection against water damage.
With the roof fully prepped, it’s now time to apply the coating either with rollers or sprayers. Experts complete this final step in multiple phases:
The ideal coating thickness may vary based on the roof’s age and condition, as well as the type of material used. For instance, a 15-year-old commercial roof with a history of damage may require more layers of coating than a two-year-old residential roof in excellent condition.
Ask your contractor what they recommend for your structure. Bear in mind that the more coats you need, the more labor is required. This could ultimately impact the total cost of the project.
Now that you know the answer to “How do you prep a roof for coating?” you might be wondering whether the drawn-out process is really necessary. Simply put, yes, you must be thorough and follow all precautionary steps before applying a coating over your roofing system.
Doing so allows you to reap the following benefits:
Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits. Begin researching roof coating projects and make sure you follow the tips above for preparing the surface.
Property owners often have many questions regarding this type of project, including “How do you prep a roof for coating?” and “Can you perform DIY roof coatings?” If you’re considering tackling this project yourself, think again. It’s always best to leave any roof work to the professionals.
Experts have ample experience applying roof coatings. They often work with a wide range of materials and can recommend an option that’s perfect for your structure based on its condition and your budget. Amateurs lack and training to handle each coating and may end up with one that doesn’t meet their needs.
Safety is another key reason to enlist a professional contractor. Working on a roof can have dire consequences if you don’t take the proper precautions.
Licensed crews come with all of the necessary gear to complete the job safely. Experts usually carry insurance as well to protect property owners from any liability should an accident occur.
Finally, hiring a professional roof coating company guarantees your desired results. Specialists don’t cut corners when preparing the surface. Their dedicated approach ensures long-lasting protection for your home or business.
Are you ready to invest in this project, but don’t know where to begin? Finding the right contractor doesn’t have to be difficult. Look for local companies that specialize in roof coatings and offer the following:
After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “How do you prep a roof for coating?” If you’re looking for the best roof coating for your New Mexico home, you can trust Engel Coatings Inc. Our experts proudly serve Las Cruces, Alamogordo, Deming, and the surrounding areas.
We offer silicone, elastomeric, and hybrid roof coating systems for maximum protection and longevity. We’ll shield your rooftop from the elements and recommend personalized solutions to meet your exact needs.
Turn to our contractors when your roof could use a strong coating to prevent damage. Submit our online form or give us a call at (575) 642-5481 to request a free estimate today.
It protects against weather elements, keeps your personal belongings safe and dry, and significantly impacts temperature control and HVAC costs. If this essential structure is not performing its job properly, you risk serious, expensive damage to your property.
But instead of replacing a roof that is not yet past its prime, many property owners are turning to the best roof coatings to improve the lifespan, protectiveness, and performance of their roofs. These coatings are fluid membranes applied to the roof with a brush or specialized sprayer.
Many roof coatings exist across the modern market and provide varying benefits. How do you determine the best roof coating for your home or business? This guide shares everything you need to know about roof coatings, the most popular types available on the market today, and how you can narrow your options to pinpoint the best one.
If you want to enhance your roofing system without paying for a full replacement, consider a roof coating. This is a specialized liquid material that professionals can apply to the surface of your roof to increase its protectiveness and extend its lifespan.
These protective layers adhere to the roof and typically consist of a mixture of resins, pigments, and other additives. Each type offers different benefits for your roofing system.
Roof coatings are suitable for a wide range of roof types and materials, such as:
Coatings generally are best for flat roof systems, and certain coatings work better for specific roofing materials. Talk to a roofing professional about whether your roof material and design are compatible with a sealant or coating.
If your roof material is one of the above, you may consider adding a roof sealant if any of the following are true:
Applying the best roof coating might be a cost-effective way to solve problems with your current roof system and prevent more expensive repairs or replacement costs.
The exact benefits you gain from a roof coating will depend on the type of coating and your existing roof material. However, these sealants generally provide the following main benefits.
Altogether, roof coatings pose a smart and effective solution to enhance your roof and save money in the process.
Several different types of roof coatings are popular on the market today. Determining the best one for your home or business is important to maximizing your benefits from this investment.
These are the three main types of coatings to keep on your radar:
Silicone roof coatings offer exceptional UV protection and resistance against pooling water. They are popular in sunny climates like New Mexico because of their reflectivity and durability against extreme heat. They also erode much more slowly than other coatings.
Silicone coatings are available in a range of colors to match your property design, including white, tan, and gray. They are also compatible with several roof types, such as metal, EPDM, built-up roofs, modified bitumen, and spray polyurethane foam roofs.
These coatings can effectively extend the lifespan of your roof while providing superior water protection and dirt and chemical resistance. However, this material attracts dirt relatively easily, meaning it requires regular cleaning to avoid losing the reflective quality. It also becomes slippery when wet, but roofers can add granules to the coating to improve slip resistance.
Hybrid roof coatings contain a specialized blend of polymers, combining many of the best elements of silicone and elastomeric roofs. They are durable and weather-resistant with excellent elasticity, helping the roof withstand varying temperatures. They also offer superior impact resistance, allowing them to withstand hail, storm debris, and other potentially damaging hazards.
Many roofers consider hybrid coatings to be an improvement on other materials. One major reason is their relatively easy installation process. This material can be applied to damp roofs, expanding the working window significantly.
The largest downside to hybrid roof coatings is their cost. They offer exceptional performance and are the best roof coating material on many fronts, but these benefits are reflected in the price. Still, they pose a worthwhile investment for both homeowners and business owners looking to maximize their roof’s durability and lifespan.
Elastomeric coatings are some of the more common coating materials. Their highly flexible material expands and contracts as the weather changes without cracking or breaking. It cures into a rubber-like membrane and is typically 100% acrylic.
Elastomeric is a suitable choice for climates like New Mexico, where the temperature shifts significantly from day to night. These coatings are hyper-durable, waterproof, and cost effective, and they can extend a roof’s lifespan by several years.
Which is the best roof coating for your property? Any of the three most popular coating materials might be a good choice. However, considering the following factors and consulting a roofing professional can help you make the best decision.
Not every roof coating is compatible with all roof materials. Talk to your local professional about which options are available for your type of roof.
For example, silicone coatings are compatible with a range of materials. Elastomeric coatings typically do best with metal roofs, modified bitumen, and single-ply membranes.
If you have a traditional asphalt shingle roof or another common residential material, these coatings may not be compatible with your roof type. Your roofing professional can recommend other solutions.
Your climate impacts the benefits you might look for in a roof coating material. If you live in a particularly sunny climate, opting for a material like silicone might make sense, as it reflects sunlight and helps keep the building cool. But if you live in a more moderate climate, you may prefer a roofing system that helps warm up the property during the cooler months.
Also, consider the frequency of harsh precipitation in your area. If you frequently experience hail, strong winds, and severe storms, look for a roof coating that offers exceptional impact and weather resistance.
Regular maintenance is a necessity for virtually all types of roof coatings. However, some require more frequent maintenance than others.
For example, silicone coatings attract dirt. Allowing debris to build up on these roofs will reduce the reflectivity of the coating material, eventually causing the roof to absorb sunlight and heat the property more quickly. This material needs regular cleanings to ensure the coating performs as intended.
Different coating materials and products also last different amounts of time. You may need to reapply the coating every five to 10 years. If you would like to maximize the time between reapplications, a hybrid coating might be a good choice, as it can last up to 20 years with a thick application.
Roofing materials have varying properties that affect their performance. Think about which properties make the most sense for your home or business, such as:
Also, consider whether you would prefer a specific color to match the rest of the building. Some materials are only available in certain hues.
The best roof coatings range in price significantly. Silicone typically costs between $2.50 to $5 per square foot, while a higher-end hybrid coating might cost up to $7 per square foot. You’ll also need to consider how many coats you want the roofers to apply. In some cases, applying multiple coats or laying the coating on thicker could increase its durability and lifespan.
Roof coatings typically cost less than a full roof replacement, but it makes sense to compare both and ensure that your roof coating application is a wise investment.
Roof coatings can last anywhere from five to 25 years, depending on a wide range of factors. Think about how long you want the coating to last.
If your roof is already nearing the end of its life, a coating will likely extend its life by several years, but you probably won’t get an additional 25 years out of your existing roofing system. In contrast, if you are applying a roof coating to a new roof, it might make sense to choose a material that provides adequate protection throughout the roof’s lifespan.
Selecting the best roof coating might feel overwhelming. This is a significant investment, and you want to ensure that the material you choose provides optimal benefits for your property.
This is why it is important to consult a professional before making the final decision. Roof coating companies thoroughly understand the benefits and potential downsides of each type of coating. They can help you properly evaluate your options and understand how a coating will impact your property.
A roof coating professional will start by coming to your home or business and assessing the existing roof. They will look for cracks or signs of damage and get a closer look at the roofing material and style. This will help them determine what types of coatings are compatible with your roof type.
Then, they will ask you about your needs, preferences, and budget for the coating, along with any specific features you are looking for, such as UV resistance, waterproofing, or long-term durability. With this information, they can provide a custom recommendation that perfectly matches your needs.
Roof coating services are an excellent choice for homeowners and business owners looking to preserve their roofs and enjoy a range of other reflective roof coating benefits. But aside from taking the time to choose the best roof coating, you need to choose a reputable, experienced company to apply it for you.
Engel Coatings Inc. installs high-performance, custom flat roof coating solutions in New Mexico. We’re a family-run business that provides each customer the same care and attention we would our own family.
Contact us for a FREE quote today by calling 575-642-5481.