If you’re looking to repair or replace your flat roof, ‘liquid roofing’ is a term you’ll come across sooner or later. To those unfamiliar with roofing, it can seem like a bit of an enigma – after all, isn’t liquid the enemy of a roof? In this post, we’ll clear things up by defining liquid roofing and explaining how it works.
Liquid roofing: the basics
Liquid roofing is a broad term that covers several types of flat roof options. As you can imagine, it refers to systems where materials are applied as a liquid. These materials then set to provide a waterproof covering for the roof.
Liquid flat roofing can be broken down into two main categories – liquid roofing systems and liquid coatings which can supplement or repair an existing flat roof.
Liquid coatings
Firstly, specialist liquid coatings can be used on an existing surface such as EPDM/GRP or felt to provide added water resistance with a seamless, uniform layer. They are relatively quick to apply and can extend the lifespan of old or failing roofs by a number of years. Liquid coatings can stop leaks on flat roofs by sealing cracks and gaps in the surface, or simply reinforce an old roof before water penetrates the existing materials.
Liquid flat roof systems
On the other hand, liquid flat roof systems are a standalone material for flat roofs, which act as an alternative to the likes of EPDM/GRP and roofing felt. They are quicker to apply than most other flat roof systems, with several elements required such as resins and topcoats. Liquid flat roofing systems are waterproof, durable and long-lasting, with an expected lifespan upwards of 30 years.
How liquid roofing systems work
Liquid roofing systems are installed on top of roofing boards/god base material, which need to be free from any damage or rot.
With GRP, edge trims are installed to prepare the roof for the liquid system. Resin is applied to the boards using a brush and/or roller to laminate the roof. A fibreglass material is then added on top of the resin, after which another layer of resin is applied and rolled out to consolidate the three layers. Once the system has cured, the topcoat is applied with a roller. This requires around three hours to fully cure, leaving your flat roof completely waterproof.
The importance of liquid roofing expertise
The explanation above keeps things as simple as possible to clarify the basics of liquid roofing. However, when applying liquid roofing systems, it’s vital that you choose a company that knows what they’re doing.
From temperatures and curing times to the right materials and measurements, liquid roofing requires a wealth of experience and expertise for the best results. That’s exactly what we provide at DPR Roofing.
Operating throughout Pontefract, we provide specialist liquid roofing services alongside other materials like felts and single-ply membrane. To find out more or get a quote for your flat roof, give us a call on 01977 220016 or email [email protected].