A sufficient runoff system is necessary for the roof on every home. Without one, excess water could begin to pool and wreak havoc on both the roofing system and the structural integrity of your home. Gabled and pitched roofs have slopes that naturally slant water away, but more creative solutions are needed for flat roofs.
Even though waterproofing in Central Florida would seemingly be more difficult for flat roofs, there are a few different solutions that can be used for these houses. One of the most reliable and effective methods is elastomeric paint, which is an elastic coating that seals the top layer of your roof to keep it dry and protected. Before this coating can be applied, though, there are a few steps you will need to take:
- Get correct measurements: To know exactly how much elastomeric coating will be needed, you will first have to get the exact measurements of your roof. Measure the length and width of your roof in feet, and then multiply these two numbers together to calculate the square footage of the roof. You can then take these measurements to a hardware store for help determining the amount of coating you will need to complete the entire roof.
- Clean the roof thoroughly: To ensure that the coating is effective and does its job well into the future, your roof will have to be completely clean before you begin the process of waterproofing in Central Florida. Since the roof has been exposed to many different weather elements over the years, the use of a pressure washer will likely be needed to get rid of all the dirt that has accumulated. If the roof is particularly dirty, a mixture of one quart of trisodium phosphate with five gallons of water can help remove stubborn grime.
- Applying the coating: After the roof has fully dried, you can begin to apply the first coat of elastomeric paint. Begin in one corner and work your way to the other side of the roof. Start by pouring a gallon of coating on one end of the roof, and use a paint roller to spread it evenly as you make your way across. Make sure to work your way backwards during the application so that you don’t step on areas that have already been coated. When you have finished the entire roof, allow the coating to set for 24 hours before applying the second coat.
While applying elastomeric coating can be a great project for experienced DIY-ers, it has to be done right to ensure the coating offers enough protection for your roof and home. If you feel more comfortable letting a professional contractor handle your roof waterproofing in Central Florida, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Winters Spring Roofing & Repair. Since 1983, we have made it our mission to protect roofing systems throughout the area, and we can use our expertise to ensure that your roof stays dry year-round as well. Call us today to schedule your consultation!