Asphalt roofs, also called felts, are probably the most popular and affordable roofing system in the United States. They provide a classic, long-lasting look that can suit virtually any home.
Currently, there are five types of asphalt roof coatings on the market. Although all of them protect the underlying felts and help extend their life, they each do it in their unique way.
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Asphalt Coatings
Asphalt roofs are the commonest on houses in the United States. They consist of either asphalt or a blend of around 85% bitumen and 15% organic matter. Many different asphalt roofing options are available, but the two most common types are flat and low-slope.
Flat roofs consist of asphalt felt, a layer of asphalt, and a water-based asphalt coating.
Low-slope roofs are ideal for residential areas where the roof is close to the ground. They have a lower profile and can be used on smaller lots. They consist of three layers: an asphalt felt, a layer of asphalt, and a layer of mineral granules.
Metal Roof Coating
Like asphalt, metal roofs are also made of two types of felts: mineral and organic. However, instead of using asphalt, they are coated with an artificial material called a metal roof coating. There are many different metal roof coatings on the market, but the two most common types are modified bitumen and alkyd.
Modified bitumen is the most durable and can last between 15-and 25 years. It has a very heavy-duty feel, making it a great option for commercial areas.
Alkyd is a very popular residential roof coating. It provides a lighter feel than modified bitumen but can last between 10-and 15 years. Alkyd roof coatings are made with organic materials, better suited for vegetated areas.
Rubber Roof Coating
Rubber roof coatings provide an affordable, durable, and long-lasting solution for protecting your roof. They are made from natural or synthetic rubber and are applied as a solvent- or water-based solution.
Types of rubber roof coatings
Hot-dip: A silicone coating applied at temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes the rubber coating much harder and more durable.
Cold-pour rubber roof coatings: Applied at lower temperatures (40-80 degrees Fahrenheit). These lower temperatures make the rubber coating more flexible and less prone to cracking.
Slate Tile Roof Coating
Slate tiles are also made of two types of felts: mineral and organic. However, they are laid upon a thicker cedar substrate. The main difference between slate tiles and asphalt is the style and color. Slate tiles are available in a wider variety of styles and colors.
Concrete Roof Coating
Concrete roof coatings provide the longest-lasting roofing solution, lasting between 15 and 40 years. They consist of three layers: an asphalt polymer base coat, an acrylic emulsion topcoat, and a hard protective coating.
The most popular roofs in the United States are asphalt and metal roof coatings. However, many other options are available, including rubber roof coatings, slate tile roof coatings, and concrete roof coatings.
Depending on your area, you may see different roofing systems on houses. If your area is prone to high winds or heavy snowfall, you may want to consider a metal roof as your primary roofing system. If your concern is water damage, an asphalt roof may be a better solution.