Addressing 3 Common Fluoropolymer Roof Coating Misconceptions

Posted on: 23 January 2023

Industrial and commercial roofing systems are substantial investments. Not only does a new roof cost a significant amount of money, but your roof is also likely to protect highly valuable equipment or inventory. It's important to ensure your roof lasts for as long as possible and that you can minimize your ongoing maintenance and repair costs.

While many commercial and industrial roofing systems are already highly durable, a fluoropolymer color match coating can provide additional protection and durability. Still, not all building owners will understand the importance of these coatings. If you're considering adding one of these coatings to your building, here are three common misconceptions to avoid.

1. Fluoropolymer Coatings Are Purely Cosmetic

Fluoropolymer coatings typically come in various colors, including custom pigments, allowing them to act as color match coatings for repairs or modifications. In other words, these coatings won't produce ugly, unmatched splotches on your roof if you need to perform future repairs. This property makes them highly suitable for commercial and industrial buildings where a professional appearance is critical.

However, fluoropolymers are far from purely cosmetic. Instead, these coatings help protect your existing roof substrate from ultraviolet rays, moisture, and physical damage. As a result, they can help your roof last longer while reducing the likelihood of damage that will lead to expensive repairs. In other words, color match roof coatings are a great way to reduce your long-term roofing costs.

2  Fluoropolymer Coatings Don't Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a hot topic in the roofing community. Your structure's roof can substantially impact the overall energy efficiency of your building, primarily by absorbing or reflecting energy from sunlight. If your building is in a part of the country known for warm summers, your roof can be a significant source of heat on bright, sunny days.

Roofing energy efficiency often comes down to two properties: color and reflectivity. A high-gloss fluoropolymer coating can provide both, with some fluoropolymer coatings even meeting CRRC standards. If you're looking for ways to improve energy efficiency, a high-gloss fluoropolymer coating in a light color such as white or gray may be an excellent option.

3. Fluoropolymer Coatings Require Extra Maintenance

A key component of any fluoropolymer coating formulation is the presence of a dry fluoropolymer lubricant. This component helps to create the "slick" finish that's a common feature of these coatings, and it's why manufacturers use fluoropolymers in other industrial applications, such as on fasteners or mechanical components.

This extremely smooth, slick surface makes it more difficult for dirt or contaminants to take hold on your roof, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and cleaning. Along with the protective qualities of fluoropolymer coatings, these properties can help reduce your long-term roof maintenance and repair expenses. 

For more info about fluoropolymer coating, contact a local company. 

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