Nobody likes a leaking roof.
The sound of dripping water in the middle of the night is a sure sign that you have to get up and do something before it gets worse. Leaks happen, whether from an aging roof or an imperfectly sealed surface.
And even if you don’t have a leak now, it’s good to know about waterproofing sealants for the future.
Waterproofing coatings are the first line of defense against water intrusion. They are used on a variety of surfaces, including foundations, decks, and RV roofs. The surface that needs waterproofing dictates which type of sealant to use.
Rexoseal has been providing waterproofing sealants for over 12 years. They are the experts on everything from roofing to concrete waterproofing compounds.
Here are some questions and answers about waterproofing sealants and products for your roof, foundation, and other areas of your home.
Coatings For Foundations
There are many types of waterproofing sealants available for foundations, but the most popular is a sheet membrane system. These systems consist of a layer of waterproofing material with a protective topcoat.
This can be applied in one continuous sheet or smaller pieces joined together by tape. The sheets adhere directly to the foundation to create a waterproof barrier.
Concrete surfaces require their special sealant because they are porous and will absorb normal liquid waterproofing products. Concrete is often found on decks and walkways, so these surfaces must be protected from water damage too.
Ideally, a sealant should be easy to apply and effective at preventing leaks. This can ensure that your roof and foundation last as long as possible without any extra repairs needed.
It is also good to use sealants of high quality so they will not have to be applied in the future. Also, using the right kind of sealant for the right job will save money on the project by requiring fewer materials and by increasing durability.
Silicone Rubber vs. Rubberized Asphalt
The right type of waterproofing sealant can bring a lot of benefits to your home or office. It is important to choose the right type before getting waterproofing sealants installed in your house or building.
Rubberized asphalt coatings can be used on asphalt roofs and asphalt shingle roofs. They're also sometimes used on concrete flat roofs, as well as metal roofs. Rubberized asphalt coats are usually less expensive and they're easier to apply on both hot and cold weather days.
Silicone rubber is more expensive than rubberized asphalt but it's also more durable and resistant to all types of weather conditions, including UV rays which can cause other types of coatings to fade or degrade over time.
It's also a good choice for metal, wood, concrete, or tile roofs that need a longer-lasting sealant.
Liquid Coatings
Liquid coatings are one of the best options for waterproofing your roof, foundations, and walls. These types of sealants come in a variety of forms and are typically made from acrylics, polyurethanes, or silicones.
These substances also provide an excellent seal when applied to your roof, which means they're one of the most effective ways to protect it against leaks.
Liquid coatings can also be customized to meet specific needs. For example, if you need protection from ultraviolet rays for a few years before you get around to reroofing, you can apply a sealant that will last for approximately eight years.
On the other hand, if you have new asphalt shingles and want them to last longer than usual, there are water-based sealants that can extend their lifespan by up to 15 years.
Waterproofing Products for Your Roof
When it comes to waterproofing coatings, there are many different options on the market. Asphalt-based sealant is a good choice for older roofs that need extra protection, as it's cost-effective and easy to apply.
If you have a flat roof or a newer roof with no visible signs of wear, another option is liquid rubber cement. This cement is applied in layers over the surface of your roof and provides a long-term solution to keeping your roof dry and protected from rot.
It's also energy-efficient, which means that it can help lower your heating and cooling bills throughout the year.
Whether your waterproofing needs are residential or commercial, Rexoseal is here to help. We offer a range of high-performance sealing products that meet the most demanding waterproofing challenges while meeting or exceeding the industry's toughest standards.
It's crucial that you choose the right sealant for your surface and project. Much like roofers and foundation specialists, Rexoseal is waiting to help you on our forums if you run into trouble or need advice.