Highly Effective and Efficient Roof Restoration
Applying Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) and silicone roofing systems over an existing Built-Up Roof (BUR) with slag offers a highly effective and efficient solution for roof restoration. SPF provides excellent insulation properties, creating a seamless, monolithic barrier that improves energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer. Its lightweight nature and ability to conform to irregular surfaces make it ideal for restoring roofs with slag ballast, covering imperfections and providing a smooth, durable protective layer. When topped with a silicone coating, the system gains superior waterproofing, UV resistance, and weatherproof capabilities, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance.
This combination of SPF and silicone roofing over a slag-covered BUR is a cost-effective alternative to complete reroofing, extending the life of your existing roof while enhancing performance. The spray foam’s insulation benefits can lead to significant energy savings, while the silicone topcoat protects against ponding water, leaks, and UV damage. Together, these systems create a flexible, resilient roof solution that seals existing vulnerabilities, resists harsh weather conditions, and provides a sustainable, long-lasting roofing upgrade for your building.
What is the difference between spray polyurethane foam roofing and a high solid silicone roof coating?
A high solid silicone coating can extend the life of an existing roof when the roof is a good candidate for restoration. Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing is a more complete system because it adds insulation, fills gaps, creates a seamless surface, and is protected by a renewable coating. With proper maintenance and recoating, an SPF roof can have a longer life cycle than a coating-only restoration. The best option depends on the condition of the existing roof and the goals for the building.
What makes spray polyurethane foam a good roofing material?
Spray polyurethane foam used for roofing is a closed-cell foam with a higher density of 3 pounds per cubic foot. This makes it strong enough to support foot traffic, resist moisture, and perform well as part of a commercial roofing system.
Spray foam used in walls is 2 pounds per cubic foot. While it is also an excellent insulator and air barrier, roof foam is denser because it must handle greater exposure, weather, and durability demands.
One of the major benefits of closed-cell spray foam is that it can create a continuous air and vapor barrier when properly installed. This helps reduce air leakage, control moisture movement, improve energy performance, and protect the building envelope. For commercial roofs, closed-cell spray foam is often one of the best options when the goal is to combine insulation, waterproofing support, and long-term building protection in one seamless system.
How do I know whether my commercial roof needs repair, restoration, or full replacement?
You will need a qualified professional to be certain, but here are a few guidelines:
- If you have an isolated leak in a newer roof system, a targeted repair is possible.
- If your roof is beyond its original warrantied life but is structurally sound, a restoration or coating system will extend its life and reduce disruption.
- If the roof is past its original life expectancy and has UV degradation, widespread leaks, or insulation saturation, you likely need a full replacement.
A certified roofing contractor should do an evaluation to determine the best option.
