Reflective roof paint is actually not paint. The proper terminology is “reflective roof coating”. While roof coatings resemble paint, they are much more durable and the thickness and strength is unmatched to what paint is capable of.
At first look, paint can be mistaken for a roof coating because it has the same viscosity and the application is similar – both can be brushed, sprayed, or rolled on. However, reflective roof paint would not provide the following benefits a reflective roof coating delivers:
- Resistance to Ponded Water
- Reflectivity Properties
- Flexible at Low Temperatures
- Ability to Expand and Contract with the Buildings Movement
- Resistance to Foot Traffic
Reflective roof coatings are designed to be installed on a horizontal surface, such as a low-sloped roof, tolerating many external stresses and having contact with water for extended periods of time. Reflective roof paint would not possess the ability to be a protectant to your roof or be used as a waterproofing mechanism to your building. Roof coatings protect the building from water penetration during wet weather, dew, fog, and ponded water situations. The coating is able to repel the water, absorbing none of it into the roof substrate below. These coatings are tough enough to be walked on when roof maintenance and equipment on the roof top needs to be serviced. Roof coating systems have a required mil thickness that provides strength and durability, offering adequate protection to the roof’s surface. The thickness also allows for the membrane to expand and contract sufficiently, without cracking or splitting. This flexibility allows the roof to move with the building during different temperature fluctuations.
The next biggest difference between a paint and a roof coating is a roof coating has the ability and ingredients to reflect the sun’s heat away from the building, blocking UV rays from being absorbed into the structure. This allows the building and roof to remain at a cooler temperature, reducing air conditioning usage and cost and reducing roof degradation and deterioration, enabling it to last longer.
There are many different roof coatings available, some are tougher and more durable and others are better at reflecting the harmful heat from the sun. We have a list of different organizations on our website that offer unbiased tests and ratings for you to research, to determine and guarantee you are getting the best roof coating product that meets your needs.
Contact National Coatings and speak to one of our roofing professionals for any questions you may have. We are here to help!
When considering a roofing system for your commercial roof, longevity, waterproofing, sustainability and durability are all necessary and important factors to research. While aluminum roof paint can provide durability and waterproofing, it poses some issues with sustainability and longevity. 
