Ian's Guide to Industrial Manufacturing

Should you consider sealing your roof?

Roofs undergo a significant amount of wear and tear on a daily basis. Indeed, the sun constantly beats down on roof shingles, strong winds pose the risk of dislodging roofing components, and rain/ice can bear their weight on the roofing material. To get the longest life out of your roof, you should consider adding a waterproof sealant. A sealant is essentially a durable material that coats the outer most surface of your roof and minimises the damage that is likely to be caused by exterior elements.

For sealant to work, it needs to be applied in a highly strategic manner by a roofing professional. The shingles should be completely clean, dry, and free of damage before sealant is applied. Most sealants consist of trisodium phosphate, which provides a waterproof and durable barrier to the surfaces that it coats. The following are benefits of adding roof sealant.

Providing a waterproof layer

Sealing your roofs will provide critical protection against water damage. This is especially true for flat roofs, where a small crack in the roof can result in damaging leaks. With a sealant applied, water will not easily penetrate to underlying roof layers and the risk of damage will be minimized.

In addition, sealants that are made of rubber or silicone are able to provide a breathable protective barrier over your roof. What does this mean? Moisture from the home will easily escape from the premises (improving indoor air quality) while water from outside will remain outdoors.

Fire resistance

Because the top layers of the roof will be sealed, damage from fire is further minimised. Most sealant materials are also fireproof and prevent the roof from catching flames when a fire breaks out.

Homes that are located in the woods or in densely populated areas can enjoy added protection from fire outbreaks.

Protection against UV rays

Imagine sitting in the sun all day, exposed to its strong ultraviolet rays. This is what your roof undergoes on a daily basis. When you add a sealant, you essentially install a reflective coating that minimises UV damage.

Harmful UV rays that can cause degradation are essentially reflected away from the roof, making the roofing materials last longer.

Protection against mould

Because most roof sealants are waterproof, they keep the roof dry and prevent the accumulation of mould and mildew. Without a sealant, the roof can remain moist during wet weather and turn into a breeding ground for these harmful organisms.

Homes in humid climates or near bodies of water are also at risk of mould if not properly sealed.


Share