1: Surface Preparation

Prior to applying any coatings, you should assure that all areas to be coated are free of dirt, dust, oil, grease, wax, rust, chalky/loose coatings, algae, mildew or any other contaminants or foreign matter that might negatively affect adhesion and proper product performance.

Roof surface should be checked for any structural issues. Any cracks, tears, breaks, blisters, ponding areas, open seams or other imperfections that may cause concerns about having a sealed, monolithic roofing surface should be addressed. The use of Armor Coat’s Armor Putty elastomeric caulking should remedy these issues in most cases. At times a polyester membrane should be used in conjunction with the Armor Putty. (It is recommended that you consult with the manufacturer when making these assessments.)

Any areas with ponding water should be addressed and leveled prior to applying Armor Coat elastomeric coatings.

Roofing surface should be completely dry before any application of Armor Coat products.

Armor Prime is always recommended as added insurance for proper adhesion.

2: Environmental Conditions

As they are water-based products, Armor Coat elastomeric coatings can be affected by environmental conditions. Coating should never be applied when rain or freezing temperatures are in the forecast. Keep in mind that lower temperatures and higher humidity can greatly prolong the cure time. Apply only when ambient and surface temperatures are between 55° F and 100° F. Do not apply when temperatures may drop below 45° F or below the dew point within 24 hours.

3: Application

Application rates vary greatly depending on surface conditions, the substrate that the coating is being applied to and desired length of warranty. It is always recommended to consult with the manufacturer or review the recommended application guidelines to assure that the proper product and amounts are being used.

Armor Coat coatings may be applied by either using a 9” roller with a 1-1/4” minimum nap or professional spray unit for larger jobs. (Consult with manufacturer for specific spray equipment needs).

Armor Coat coatings should be applied at a rate no greater than 1.50 gallons per roofing square (100 square feet) with any application. Should more coating be required or desired, the additional coating should be applied in follow up applications only after the initial and subsequent coats have had ample time to adequately cure so as to permit walking on the surface without causing any damage to the previously applied coating. When temperatures are lower, causing delayed curing, the rate should drop from 1.50 gallons per square to no more than 1 gallon per square. In addition, when temperatures exceed 100° F, the rate should also be reduced to 1 gallon per square to avoid mud cracking as the product can cure and shrink at too rapid a rate.

4: Coating over new polyurethane foam

When coating over new, sprayed-in-place polyurethane foam, only coatings that are made from an 100% acrylic base resin should be used. Using coatings with alternately based resins can lead to issues with adhesion.

When new foam is sprayed, it should be covered with a protective U.V. barrier such as Armor Coat’s 100% acrylic topcoats within the first 48 hours as even short exposure of U.V. rays to foam can cause damage and reduce the adhesive abilities.

5: Recoating elastomeric coating

One of the benefits of using elastomeric coatings as opposed to some other roofing products is its ability to be maintained periodically with subsequent re-applications of additional coating (recoats). This adds additional life to the product and can allow you to keep this system going on your roof for essentially the life of the building. Should there be a warranty on the roof, this may also allow you to extend the warranty on the roof. (Check with the manufacturer to find out about any warranties and whether extending them is an option.) The rate of application for a recoat as well as the added length of warranty (If applicable) vary depending on and the amount of additional coating applied. (Consult with manufacturer for recommendations and details). When properly installed and maintained, an elastomeric roof can be a great system and last for years if not decades. It is recommended that you are aware of how long your roof coating is designed to last for to be aware of when a recoat may be due. It is recommended that you recoat your roof 6 months prior to the end of any warranties to assure that the surface is still in good condition to promote proper adhesion of the newly applied coatings. Power-washing the roofing surface prior to recoating the surface is also recommended to clean away any imbedded debris or dirt. Once again, this surface should be allowed to completely dry prior to the recoat application.

6: Maintenance of your Armor Coat roof.

Should any issues arise with the coating surface, the sooner the issue is addressed and repaired, the easier is usually is to do so. Therefore, it is recommended that your roof coated with Armor Coat products be inspected no less than every 6 months to assure that no issues or damage has occurred and that all drains and scuppers are free from debris to assure proper drainage. Additionally, it is good practice to inspect the roof after severe storms or when there are trees near the house that may be more prone to drop debris on the roof. Any/all issues noticed should be repaired as soon as reasonably possible.

7: Storage

When storing products long term, any unopened containers should be stored out of direct sunlight in areas that will maintain a temperature between 55° and 85° and that will protect the containers from the elements paying special attention to not allow exposure to freezing temperatures. Any time containers have been opened care should be taken to assure a proper airtight seal is achieved prior to storing in the conditions mentioned previously. Failure to store in the manners recommended may lead to irreparable damage to the coating and render it no longer viable for use.