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Two roofers installing a silicone roof coating on a commercial building.
Commercial Roofing

The Advantages of Silicone Roof Coatings

As a commercial roofing contractor, you're responsible for choosing the right materials for each job. But with so many options available, making a decision can be difficult.Increasingly, industry professionals have been turning to silicone roof coatings for their strength and durability. These coatings can help extend the life of a structurally sound roof and potentially save property owners time and money by delaying a full reroof. Plus, their restoration properties work great with most commercial roofing systems, like EPDM, built-up, bitumen, and metal roofs. What Are Silicone Roof Coatings?Silicone coatings are high-performance, waterproof protective roof coatings. Adding this coating to a structurally sound roof can help extend the life of the existing roof. Silicone is inorganic, so it can maintain its properties in inclement weather conditions. It's also flexible and can absorb most normal roof movement to help avoid cracking and losing its protective features.Benefits of Silicone Roof CoatingsIn addition to flexibility and extending the life of the existing roof, silicone coatings offer several other benefits. Laura Soder, senior product manager for liquids and coatings at GAF, explains that GAF silicone coatings are designed to help protect against leaks and provide related advantages.UV Ray ProtectionThe major benefit of silicone coatings is ultraviolet (UV) ray protection. "GAF silicone is formulated with titanium dioxide, providing exceptional UV stability and high solar reflectance," she says. This UV protection can help lower roof top temperatures, which may translate into more efficient operation of roof top units.Cost-EffectiveSilicone coatings are cost-effective solutions that can help delay the cost of materials and labor needed to replace the entire roof. They work great with most commercial roofs and pair exceptionally well with metal roofs.Restores and Helps Extend the Life of the Existing RoofSoder notes that silicone coatings adhere well to metal roofs, making them an excellent way to extend the service life of metal roofs. Before application, brush away light rust or spot-treat heavier rust. "There are a lot of metal roofs out there, and for those that are structurally sound and require only moderate restoration, you can easily add years to the roof's life by coating them with silicone," she says.Moisture-ResistantSilicone coatings are also known for their moisture-resistant capabilities. Since silicone is inorganic, it resists degradation in areas that pond water, making it an ideal choice in areas that experience rain or snow.Works in Hot and Cold WeatherSilicone has a wide temperature application range. Because it doesn't contain water, you can apply it at lower temperatures than acrylic and other roof coatings. It provides a monolithic, seamless waterproofing layer over existing metal roofs. Silicone will also flex with metal in cold and hot weather.How Silicone Compares to Elastomeric CoatingsCompared to acrylic and other elastomeric roof coatings, silicone has some advantages.Acrylics are water-based protective coatings with UV resistance —but they shouldn't be installed where there is ponding water, as they can break down and start delaminating. Silicone is a moisture-cure material, meaning it reacts with moisture in the air and cures to a finished film.Soder explains that both materials are flexible and appropriate for use over metal. But if you have any standing water, acrylic isn't the best choice. "While silicone is more expensive, it typically weathers at a much slower rate than other coatings," she says. That said, one of silicone's drawbacks compared to other elastomeric roof coatings is that it's slippery when wet.Navigating Installation and ApplicationWhile silicone coatings can help extend the life of an existing roof, Soder notes it's best to install the coating before the end of the existing membrane's service life.Since leaks tend to happen at roof seams, add silicone sealant to these areas. Sealants are formulated differently than coatings—they use different silicone polymers, giving them a heavier body and stronger build. Silicone sealants are formulated for high-stress areas and can help absorb movement at critical points in the roof. They work hand in hand with a silicone coating to protect the roof.Before you apply any coating, ensure the roof is clean, dry, and sound. "Clean means free of contaminants, dust, oils, leaves, and other debris," Soder says. You can use GAF Cleaning Concentrate to power wash your roof.Since silicone is moisture-cure, the roof needs to be dry before applying. Coating over a wet surface can affect adhesion and is often one of the biggest mistakes you can make when installing. You want the coating to start the curing process from moisture in the air, not from moisture on the roof.How to Apply Silicone CoatingsApplying a silicone roof coating involves five steps:Clean any debris off the roof and test that the coating will properly adhere to the surface.Ensure the roof is in sound condition. Repair broken sheet metal, and replace missing or damaged fasteners.Treat all seams and fasteners with silicone sealant like GAF Silicone Mastic. Apply it at 60 mils or 1/16-inch wet thickness with a brush.Use the same sealant on any curbs, penetrations, and drains.Finally, apply the silicone roof coating to the entire roof. Some coatings, like GAF Unisil Silicone, require two coats, while others such as the GAF High Solids Silicone may need just one.Understanding Maintenance Needs and LongevityMaintaining a silicone roof coating is essential. Addressing issues before they become problematic can help minimize the cost of repairs and maximize the service life of the coating.As the roof flexes over time, issues with the seams might develop. A good rule of thumb is to get a roof inspected every six months. Applying a silicone sealant can help address areas with leaks or cracks. Silicone sealant is UV stable and doesn't require a top coat, according to Soder.Adding Silicone Roof Coatings to Your ToolboxWith many benefits, silicone roof coatings should be front of mind when planning roof restoration projects. And with several options available, you can choose the best type for each roof you work on. Have more questions about roof coatings? GAF technical service reps are more than happy to assist you on your next coating project.

By Mark Soto

October 15, 2024

Featured Blogs

  • A commercial roof drain.
    Commercial Roofing

    The Importance of Commercial Drain Maintenance

    A low-slope commercial roofing system is responsible for keeping the elements out of the building. During heavy rain, water with nowhere else to go may pond on the roof. A roof drain prevents water from ponding by providing a way for it to leave the roof, and regular commercial drain maintenance ensures its continued performance.Although commercial buildings may appear to have flat roofs, some roofs have slopes built into the structure or require added slopes, typically achieved with tapered insulation to facilitate water drainage. This slope is designed to guide water to a drain, so it doesn't sit on the roof and damage the roofing system or structure. Standing water can slowly deteriorate certain roofing materials and cause premature degradation, failure, or damage. It can also promote algae and plant growth and attract nuisances such as birds and insects.Guiding Water off the RoofResidential roofs have gravity on their side—water flows down the slopes into gutters that transport it away from the home. Commercial buildings with low-slope roofs have to work a little harder to remove water, which is where roof drains come into play.The roofing system design can help guide water toward the drains. It often involves using tapered insulation such as GAF EnergyGuard™ tapered polyiso insulation. The two most popular tapered boards deliver a 1/8-inch or 1/4-inch per foot slope. This slight slope prevents water from standing on the roof, forcing it toward a drain strategically installed at various low points on the roof with crickets and saddles.Drain placement is particularly essential when the parapet wall sheds water. To help water arrive at the drain line or gutter, tapered crickets are typically installed in corners and between drains to direct the flow and alleviate ponding. This water must flow down the roof side of the parapet wall and follow the roof slope to reach the drain.3 Common Types of Roof DrainsInner DrainsInner drains are connected to sloped pipes under the roof that carry water off the roof and away from the building. They typically rely on gravity and the roof's slope to get water to the drain.ScuppersScuppers are found at the roof's edge, usually installed through a hole in the parapet wall. They're designed to drain water from the roof into a downspout or may extend out from the building to shed water.Siphonic DrainsSiphonic drains feature a baffle that keeps air out and allows water to fill the pipes. Once the pipes are full, the lack of air creates a vacuum that siphons water from the roof at a high velocity. The baffle also keeps leaves and debris from gathering in the drain and causing a blockage.Caring for and Maintaining Roof DrainsInspecting and maintaining roof drains should be part of your regular roof inspections. Because roof drains are located at low points on the roof, it's easy for debris or leaves to build up in these areas. Clearing debris is essential for the drains to function properly. Clogs encourage pools of water to form on the rooftop, which can cause structural issues for the building. Even just an inch of standing water can add thousands of pounds of weight to the roof, reinforcing the need for regular commercial drain maintenance.Advancing Roof Drain Maintenance with TechnologyGAF recently introduced the Steely Drain™. This is a roof drain solution that leverages technology allowing contractors to build their maintenace relationship by setting up building maintenance reminders to contact building owners or facility managers. This contractor-inspired drain is made of 316L marine-grade stainless steel, making it ideal for tough environments that require exceptional corrosion resistance.Steely Drain™ features a QR code etched onto the top that you can scan with your smartphone to instantly view information about the roofing system. This data can include the contact information of the contractor who installed the system, the architect and consultants for the project, and the roofing system details if all information is inputted.This critical data is managed from a convenient GAF-hosted dashboard and plays an important role in the roof's maintenance plan. Contractors can set up and receive email reminders when it's time to perform scheduled roof and drain inspections. The dashboard also eliminates the need for core cuts since every detail of the roofing system is available through the QR code—from the deck type to the cover board, underlayment, insulation type and thickness, to the final membrane.Knowledge Is Key to SuccessWhen properly installed and maintained, roof drains can keep the rooftop free of standing water for many years. Curious to learn more? Explore how the Steely Drain™ can help you with your ongoing maintenance programs. You can also visit the GAF CARE Contractor Training Center to gain additional tips and access valuable training courses that allow you to learn at your own pace.

    By Karen L Edwards

    August 29, 2024

  • Commercial skylights can help save on energy use
    Commercial Roofing

    How Commercial Skylights Can Boost Revenue

    Historically, commercial skylights have gotten a bad rap. "The old joke was: 'if it's not leaking now, it will be soon,'" says Brian Grohe, a 13-year vet of the skylight industry and a commercial sales manager at industry leader VELUX. Fortunately, technology has changed that old tune for the better, turning commercial skylights into a golden opportunity for roofing contractors.Thanks to revolutionized frame designs, glazing, and water management strategies, installing these rays of light in a roof provides added value to customers while increasing project revenue. Plus, it's now possible to streamline skylight ordering, delivery, and warranty/guarantee services through your roofing manufacturer, which can help save time and money.Benefits of Commercial Skylights"The skylight of the past is not the skylight of the present," Brian explains. "The aesthetic and practical benefits can improve a building's space, increase revenue, and positively impact resale value." Here are just some of the perks of incorporating natural overhead light into your commercial roofing repertoire.Contractor BenefitsExpand work opportunities: Replacement work makes up a large part of the commercial skylight industry, according to Brian. This presents a tremendous service opportunity for contractors if they can identify and repair or replace an older skylight that is sun-damaged, broken, or leaking. "Solve a building owner's problem for them," suggests Brian, "and you'll expand your work while adding value for the customer."Increase revenue potential: Adding this ancillary product into a project proposal provides aesthetic and financial benefits to the customer, and increased revenue potential for the contractor.Benefits for Building OwnersSave money: Explain to customers how a skylight can reduce electrical consumption by harnessing sunlight. In fact, a daylighting strategy can reduce the need for energy-consuming electric lighting by 20% to 80%. This saves on costs for building owners.*Improve tenant or employee well-being: Exposure to natural light can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of a space. This can increase employee productivity, work satisfaction, and overall wellness.Boost building value: Enhancing the architecture and natural light in a space can improve the building's appearance and increase potential resale value.Commercial Skylight TypesCommercial skylights come in a range of shapes — dome, pyramid, vault, low-profile, etc. There are also different functionalities, such as vented or fixed, which describe whether the skylight provides ventilation. All of these options fall into two main categories: glass and plastic.A glass skylight is often an architectural consideration, Brian says. "[They] accentuate designs of the building and provide a stunning view."Most commercial skylight projects like those in "industrial buildings, retail, some office spaces, and places like school gyms use the plastic unit skylight," says Brian. Fortunately, "these are already in a roofer's wheelhouse, because it's no different — from a flashing standpoint — than any other roof penetration."Unlike older plastic skylight materials that didn't provide much UV protection, prismatic polycarbonate is now the industry standard. A modern plastic skylight can offer high-clarity, excellent thermal insulation, impact resistance, UV protection, and long-term high light transmission.Choosing the Right Commercial SkylightTake these factors into consideration when navigating skylight brand and style selection for a project:Customer and building needs: A project in a storm-prone region may benefit most from a hurricane-rated skylight, while another project focused on maximizing energy efficiency would benefit from sun-harvesting industrial warehouse skylights. For example, VELUX offers the Dynamic Dome, engineered to harvest more early morning and late afternoon daylight than its competitors and allow a building's lights to remain off for nearly an extra hour per day.Proprietary skylight designs: Proprietary skylight offerings from a company typically provide "stronger impact resistance and better UV resistance long-term," says Brian. Often, proprietary designs last longer for the building owner and are safer for roofers.Warranty/Guarantee coverage: Carefully research what a warranty covers when selecting the commercial skylight you'll use for a project. "Some skylight manufacturers have very limited warranties," Brian notes. GAF and VELUX offer a new approach — when purchased through GAF, VELUX skylights are eligible for up to 20-years of coverage under GAF NDL (no dollar limit) guarantees.**Combining Roof and Skylight WarrantiesRoofers can make a project easier and get a stronger warranty by going through one manufacturer and distributor for both their roof and skylight needs. GAF and VELUX have teamed up to provide this seamless service. This alliance "streamlines skylight ordering, freight coordination, warranty/guarantee registration, and any manufacturer claims because it's one manufacturer and one distributor handling the project needs," explains Brian.For roofers, the project makes it easier from a purchasing and ordering standpoint: "All order management and freight coordination happen through one source," says Brian. Consolidating roofing and skylight needs also streamlines the delivery of materials coming to a job site.This also holds advantages during the life of the roof. "You're getting a warranty that's tied into the roof system," says Brian. "This means that if there is a problem with a skylight after construction is completed, the contractor or building owner doesn't have to find out who the manufacturer is and submit a separate claim — they can handle claims through GAF. Also, the timing of the roof guarantees and skylight warranties will match, meaning there are no gaps in coverage."Want to learn more about expanding your roofing services while upgrading your commercial roofing projects? GAF can offer support and expertise for skylight projects and level up your work. Get in touch with your territory manager today.*Savings will vary and are not guaranteed.**See applicable warranty and guarantee documents, available at gaf.com, for complete coverage and restrictions.

    By Annie Crawford

    January 17, 2023

  • Construction workers looking at steel frame building
    Commercial Roofing

    Commercial vs Residential Roofing: What Are the Differences?

    Every roof is different, and that's especially true when comparing commercial vs residential roofing, also known as low-slope vs steep-slope roofing. Many roofing contractors start out installing residential roofs because they have a low cost of entry. The process requires minimal specialized equipment—most roofers are able to start out with a truck, a ladder, a nail gun, a compressor, and safety gear.You can earn a great living installing residential roofs. But as your business grows, you may consider installing larger commercial roofs that provide steady work over weeks or even months. Commercial roofing also brings more opportunities for regular service and maintenance, helping you develop relationships with customers. When it comes time to replace their roof, they'll know your company can get the job done.If you're interested in expanding into commercial roofing, it's important to understand the differences between commercial and residential roofing, from crew size to specialized equipment to financial considerations.Using Specialized EquipmentAlthough you can install shingles with a nail gun, the same can't be said for commercial roofing installations. For instance, if you plan to install a thermoplastic single-ply membrane such as GAF EverGuard® TPO, you'll need to invest in hot air welding equipment to weld the seams and handheld welders for the flashing details.If the system is specified to be an adhered installation, the job may require a spray rig to apply the adhesive efficiently and effectively. In the case of an induction welded system, RhinoBond® induction welding equipment helps secure the membrane and insulation to the roof deck without penetrating the membrane. This equipment can run into the tens of thousands of dollars.Identifying Crew Size and ExperienceA residential roofing crew can range anywhere from four to six workers, who are typically able to reroof an average-sized home in one day. Commercial roofing crews need more people and more time. Depending on the size of the building and the roofing materials involved, commercial roofing replacements can take anywhere from several days to months.You'll also want to be sure to ensure your crews are properly trained and certified by the manufacturer so that you can offer system warranties or guarantees to building owners for their new roofs.Reviewing Safety MeasuresSafety comes first on every roofing job, and the safety requirements on commercial roofing projects can vary greatly from those on a residential roof. Prepare a comprehensive safety plan for each commercial roof that includes identifying roof access points, establishing safety perimeter lines at the roof edge, locating and flagging potential hazards such as skylights, and reviewing the need for any special fall protection equipment such as weighted anchors or parapet clamps. OSHA safety requirements are readily available in their guide for protecting roofing workers available on www.osha.org.Considering Financial ConcernsWhile a residential roofing project may have a short life cycle for installation and payment, a large commercial roofing project can take months to install—and potentially months to get paid following the installation. Many large companies pay on a 30-, 60-, or even 90-day payment system, and will often work retainage into the contract. Retainage refers to a percent of every payment that is withheld until substantial completion of the project- which could mean when most other trades on the job have finished their work as well. You'll need to be sure that your company is in a financial position to wait that length of time before receiving payment, and ensure you're capable of completing the job by any date indicated on the contract to avoid liquidated damages.The sales life cycle for a large commercial roofing project can take a long time as well. You'll need a good salesperson who can find jobs, build relationships, and work closely with your estimating team to develop a solid bid.Partnering with Your ManufacturerNavigating the differences in commercial vs residential roofing can raise new questions for roofers. As you expand your business in a new direction, GAF is here to help you find success with a robust training library and expert videos that allow you to learn at your own pace. This support is available through the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence, which has a host of resources and training to fit your goals and the way you prefer to learn.Get started by reaching out to your GAF territory manager, who can help you begin your journey in commercial roofing.RhinoBond® is a registered trademark of OMG, Inc.

    By Karen L Edwards

    June 14, 2022

  • Close-up of hail impacting dark shingles.
    Commercial Roofing

    Protecting Your Building from Hail Roof Damage

    Up to 25% of the United States experiences large hail episodes—and when they do, hail can cause severe damage to roofs and the HVAC equipment stored there. Hailstorms account for 70% of the average annual property losses from severe convective storms in the US. Building owners can protect their buildings and equipment by designing their buildings and roofs to withstand the damage caused by large hailstones.FM Global, an insurance company that specializes in loss prevention and testing, provides a standard for testing and approving assemblies that provide greater hail resistance. Building owners and designers often rely on FM Global's resources to specify desired roofing assemblies and construction methods. These resources include RoofNav assemblies from FM Approvals as well as loss prevention data sheets and Approvals Standards. Well-maintained roofs that meet FM's hail testing and approval requirements are better equipped to protect buildings from hail and water damage that occurs during storms.Assessing Risks from Hail Roof DamageHail can cause physical damage to a building's roof and the equipment stored there, including dents, cracking, mineral loss on modified bitumen sheets, and compound delamination. Older roofs or those in poor condition may be more susceptible to damage from hail. Roof equipment, including cooling fins and condenser coils, can also be damaged from falling hail. Skylights are subject to hail punctures, which are the main cause of water damage to buildings and their contents.In the US, the most severe hail generally occurs in the Midwest and central contiguous states. According to FM, very severe hail can be found in the region from North Dakota to Texas and Colorado to Missouri. Roofs, roof assemblies, and equipment in this region should be designed to meet FM's specific hail requirements to better withstand hail roof damage.Defining Very Severe HailFM Approvals has recognized three classes of hail: moderate, severe, and very severe.Moderate hail (MH) is less than 1.75 inches in diameter, which is about the size of a cherry. Severe hail (SH) is 1.75 inches to 2 inches in diameter, similar in size to a golf ball. Very severe hail (VSH) is 2 inches or greater in diameter, similar in size to a billiard ball (or larger).FM's Very Severe Hail (VSH) certification was added in 2016 based on data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service and National Center for Environmental Protection's Storm Prediction Center. This data showed a concentration of reports of hail larger than 2 inches in diameter in the very severe hail region.Passing a Very Severe Hail TestFM tests assemblies in accordance with FM 4470:To test an assembly for moderate hail, a 2-inch-diameter steel ball weighing 1.19 pounds is dropped from 81 inches above the assembly. Two samples, unweathered and weathered, are tested 10 times each. This test provides an impact energy of 8 foot-pounds.Testing for severe hail, the same 2-inch-diameter steel ball is dropped from a height of 141.5 inches above the assembly. This test provides an impact energy of 14 foot-pounds.When testing whether a roof assembly can withstand very severe hail, a 2-inch-diameter preformed ice ball is launched at the assembly using compressed air. Three samples are used in this test: one unconditioned, one UV weathered, and the third UV weathered and heat aged for 42 days prior to testing. This test provides an impact energy of between 53 and 58 foot-pounds.After the test is performed, the roof assembly is inspected for dents, cracking, and delamination. Assemblies that pass the test are certified as meeting the FM criteria. You can find an online database of VSH-rated roofing assemblies here; GAF has over 1600 single ply VSH-listed assemblies.The FM standard recommends that building owners inspect their roofs on a regular basis and repair deficiencies; the standard also advises replacing roofs where deficiencies cover a large area or when the roof is nearing the end of its useful life. An owner should also inspect heat and smoke vents and skylights for cracking, yellowing or discoloration, cloudiness, or other indications of damage due to weathering and aging. Skylights showing damage should be replaced as needed, and hail guards on HVAC equipment require inspections to ensure they are in place and free of damage.For more information about GAF and very severe hail, contact your local commercial roofing contractor or complete our very severe hail contact form.

    By Dawn Killough

    May 13, 2022